When should someone consider taking public transportation to the airport? When deciding what mode of transportation to use to get to the airport, you'll want to consider cost, convenience, and your time schedule.
"When deciding what mode of transportation to use to get to the airport, you'll want to consider cost, convenience, and your time schedule. What's best for you really depends on your personal preference and needs. While a car may be convenient, if you're taking an extended trip, airport parking fees can really add up," says Paula Berg of Southwest Airlines. People heading to the airport tend to think about how long the drive is or maybe where they should park. What happens if I am driving along and have an accident or just a speeding ticket, bet I will miss my flight? Many park and rides near airports have waivers that are posted that they are not responsible for any damage or theft. It does happen because thieves know that people are away.
By the time, you figure out which parking area you need to be in, whether it is short-term or long-term, covered or not, stress can already start building. Parking near any airport is also expensive. Depending on the area of the country, one day in long-term parking, which is usually cheaper than short-term, can run you from $5 a day up to $10 or more. That adds up pretty quick over a week or more. Hauling your luggage from a far-away parked car to the terminal can also be an exercise in frustration.
So consider some form of public or private transportation to the airport next time. "If you're concerned about costs, consider taking a shuttle, train, or having a friend or family member drop you off," said Berg. A taxi service can pick you up at your door and drop you off at the proper terminal in plenty of time. If you live close enough to the airport, this can be an inexpensive way. If you live further out, check the yellow pages or asks for suggestions from fellow travelers about limousine services. It may sound too fancy or expensive, more so than a cab, but you can get great rates from these companies. Most of their high-end calls are in the evenings for people going to and from engagements. This means that their limos are free during the day. These companies figure they have the cars and drivers, so why not keep finding customers.
"If your car is your only option but you're worried about parking fees, many cities offer offsite parking with shuttle service to the airport. While this is less expensive option, it will require a little extra time to park and shuttle to the airport," said Paula Berg. Most airports have several companies that work with them to provide public transportation to their customers. These companies may pick you up from a house or from a designed parking lot and drop you off in front of the terminal. Other than maybe the limousine service, you do not have to worry about returning to your vehicle or house after the trip. Taxicabs have their own areas and shuttle buses tend to run later than the last incoming flight or they have a phone for you to call for a pickup. Having someone there to help you get your luggage off and on is wonderful, especially if you have small children or many pieces.
