Four Best-Kept Secrets to Avoiding Airport Transfer Nightmares

Learn how you can have a stress-free travel experience here on the Sunshine Coast.

Best-kept Secret #1: Book a reliable airport transport service

This one is crucial.

There are many transportation options you can choose from such as public transportation, rideshare, or taking a taxi, but trust us when we say that booking an airport transfer service is hands down the best option for you, whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned traveller.

Public transportation may be the cheapest option but ask yourself: do you still have the energy to carry your luggage from the airport to your destination? 

I don't think so.

On to the next option: rideshare. The power is literally at your fingertips because, with just a few taps, you can get a ride thru an app on your mobile. But there's a huge possibility that the driver can get you #cancelled in favour of another passenger who's much nearer and it's something you don't want to happen especially when you're exhausted after a long flight.

The same goes for taxis. Aside from the fact that they can outright refuse to pick you up, you better get yourself ready to cough up a few extra dollars as they can be very expensive, especially when you're travelling long distances or during peak hours. You will also have to wait in line before you can get a ride, which is not a great way to kick off your travel plans.

Finally, there are airport transfer services that have both reliability and convenience factor we've all been looking for in any transport options. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and let your designated driver handle everything.

But first, book your ride.

You may have everything planned up, from your accommodation to your itinerary, but if you fail to book an airport transfer service from a reputable company ahead of time, your trip will most likely end up in a disaster. The last thing you want is to be stranded in a busy airport frantically searching for a ride at the last minute.

Do your homework and book your airport transfer ahead of time. You can do it online or over the phone. Either way, make sure that you check out the company's website and read reviews that will vouch for the company's good reputation to ensure that you are dealing with a legit car hire company rather than some dubious fly-by-nighter.

Booking for an airport transfer service takes a heavy load off your back, literally and figuratively, and guarantees you a more relaxing experience during your trip.

Best-kept Secret #2: Prep for Delays

If there's one thing that makes any traveller's anxiety level shoot through the airport roof, it's experiencing delays. What's even more annoying is that there's no way of telling whether or not it's gonna happen. You don't hit the road and expect a mishap that causes heavy traffic or your flight to get delayed for whatever reason. 

So, how can you get all prepped for the unexpected?

Pack all your essentials in your carry-on bag and give yourself a good head start by going to the airport early. In some countries, people are often advised to be at the airport at least four to six hours early before their flight. This may sound a bit of a stretch but it actually does make sense. 

Why?

Going to the airport early means you will have plenty of time to check in and go through security without feeling panicked or stressed. Plus, if you arrive early and your flight is delayed, you'll have more time to plan and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

This brings us to our next top secret...

Best-kept Secret #3: Communication is the glue that holds your trip together.

This goes hand in hand with top secret number 2.

When it comes to travelling, communication is key. From the moment you make arrangements to the time you hit the road, make sure that you communicate everything as clearly as possible to the car hire company where you booked your ride.

Make sure you provide all the important details: your flight details, pickup location, destination, amount of baggage you'll be carrying and whether you'll be travelling alone or with a group. Don't forget to double-check with them a day before your actual flight and see if they got all your details right.

And in case you experience a delay while on your way, be sure to call and inform the car hire company so they can also make the necessary adjustments on their end as well. Delays are truly a major inconvenience but having clear communication with the car hire company of your choice alleviates some of that stress and ensures that there's still a ride waiting for you the moment you arrive.

Best-kept Secret #4: Check out all the red flags

Scammers are EVERYWHERE, even in the airport. From nefarious taxi drivers to fake shuttle services, these people can leave you stranded and out of pocket.

One of the most prevalent airport transfer scams is overcharging. According to the news, taxi drivers across the country are demanding upfront cash payments instead of using meters. Imagine being asked to pay $70 for a ride that costs about $42.30, including tolls. How ridiculous does that sound?! 

Another scam that we often see in airports is those bogus shuttle services where a driver will approach you in the airport claiming to be a shuttle service and offering you a ride at an overly inflated price.

The only way you can protect yourself from these crooks is to book your ride from a reputable car hire company that has a proven track record and is accredited or certified by industry organizations. So, even if someone approaches and offers you a ride, you can politely decline and walk away because you already have one. Most importantly, trust your instincts and if something doesn't feel right or someone makes you feel unsafe, report them to airport security immediately.

So, there you have it. Booking for a ride early on, preparing for delays, and keeping an eye out for scammers can help you avoid airport transfer nightmares and truly enjoy your trip.

If you're looking for a reliable airport transfer service in the Sunshine Coast, look no further than Limo Hire Sunshine Coast. For inquiries, fill out the contact form or call us at 07 5451 8753.