When travelling, there are several considerations that you have to make beyond what you’ll be doing for your vacation. One particular decision is what sort of airport transportation will you consider once you land.
We know that booking airport transportation can be difficult, especially since most people make this the last thing to mark off their to-do list. However, to make this tedious task easier for you, we decided to provide you this guide. This guide should aid you in picking out the best airport transportation in not just Monmouth County, but in other locations too.
So, what sort of options do you have?
Shared Shuttles
Otherwise known as rideshare services, these are available in every sort of airport out there. Shuttle service to Newark airport from Monmouth County is a sensible option for those who are on a budget.
The idea behind this type of airport transportation is that the shuttle picks up a number of random passengers and drops them off at a certain location. Think of it like a public bus system. Cheap in almost every possible way.
To travelers this can be a good – and bad – thing. It’s cheap in the way of pricing, but you’ve got to deal with multiple stops, being around a bunch of strangers, and sitting in not the most comfortable seating for longer periods of time compared to the alternatives.
This is also on top of the fact that if you’re landing in the early mornings, these kinds of services are highly unreliable. When dealing with rideshare services such as this, they’re going to be based on strict schedules and could be gone before you even land.
That aside, if you can tolerate the bad effects and booked a flight to land in the daytime, afternoon, or evening then this can be a good option.
Private Transfers (Corporate Car Service)
Another alternative to consider is getting a private transfer or corporate car service. This sort of airport shuttle will cost more but we consider this the better option over rideshare services. The difference in cost is little and the return is well worth it.
Getting your own corporate car service allows you to quickly get to your destination without any issue. Spotting your own driver is also easier than taking a shared airport shuttle service too ensuring you’re not stuck in the airport for very long. This is even better if you’ve got children in tow or you have lined up specific times for events.
Beyond that, these vehicles are typically comfier – and aren’t as cramped – and allow for extra baggage or large luggage. You can also receive complimentary gifts and insider tips on the area.
Another consideration going for private transfers is the journey back. If you’ve booked private transfers, you’ll also be booking a time to be transferred back, allowing you to avoid any long trip to and from the airport.
Taxis/Ubers Or Other Ride Shares
But what about getting an uber or calling for a taxi? On the surface, these can seem like you’re getting the best of both worlds. Taxis and Ubers or other ride share options will be cheaper. Not only that but you’ll often have that vehicle all to yourself and get comfy seating to boot.
While there is some shred of truth to that, there are still risks to it. We all want a pleasant, safe, and straightforward experience from these transfers. Going for this option doesn’t give you a guarantee it’ll happen for three reasons.
First of all, a lack of ground transfer plans can leave you vulnerable to hiked taxi rates. You’ll have no option but to accept a taxi at whatever rate and drivers can be demanding higher prices for such short notice.
The second is communication. Taxis may not be around your area or could mishear you due to you being in an airport. The same can be said for Uber drivers.
Lastly is the competition. Because many people often forget to make these sorts of plans, taxis and Ubers amongst other rideshare services will get an influx of callers in that area hoping to score last-minute transportation. You can easily be overwhelmed by others and left without any option.
What about booking a taxi or Uber in advance though? It’s a smart decision, but it also doesn’t guarantee you a spot. Reading Uber’s fine print you’ll notice Uber rides are subject to last-minute surge charges. Lyft is another option amongst others but they offer these types of reservations to specific regions.
And even getting past all of that, there are several other wrinkles. If you’ve got extra luggage or large items, you might not be able to store them properly in these vehicles. You’re also subject to the condition of the driver too. That’s not to say the driver is unable to drive or anything, but the car may not be as clean or as fresh as the vehicles from corporate car services.
Luxury Vehicle
Want to be riding in style? Consider a luxury vehicle. Of course, this service isn’t for everyone on every trip. This is ideal for those celebrating special occasions (honeymoons, wedding anniversaries, etc.) or have the financial stability to afford this service when they travel.
To ensure you get the most out of this option, look for these nine things:
- High quality – A good limo company to deal with will have fleets offering consistent high-quality and reliability. You should never worry about getting a bad limo as the best companies will never have any.
- Transportation options – Limos are obvious, but there are also shuttles and executive vans for even larger groups.
- Baggage Handling – You shouldn’t be penalized for bringing a reasonable amount of baggage.
- Meet and Greet – Your driver should be at the airport with a sign with your name on it.
- Parcel transport – Even if you don’t need it, if the company offers this it’s still a tell that they care about their customers.
- Online booking – At this point, this is expected.
- Hat & Glove services – it’s a necessary part of a visually impressive driver.
- Unmarked vehicles – You’re paying top dollar, people shouldn’t know you’re spending that kind of money.
- Flexibility – If you need to make a change for whatever reason, the company should be able to adapt quickly and not hike the price as a result.