Airport Transportation - Why You Should Always Prearrange A Pickup

Arranging airport transportation can be frustrating, but it is one of the best splurges you can make even if you are a budget traveler or a backpacker. Having someone drop you off for your initial flight away isn't so bad, but expecting to wing it to your destination when you arrive can really backfire. If you don't want to spend the first night of your trip sleeping on the streets with a terrible first impression of your vacation destination, plan ahead.

Jet lag is one of the main reasons to hire airport transportation well ahead of your landing. If you're on any flight longer than a couple of hours, you will be tired from your travels. When people are fatigued, stress runs high and it can be difficult to focus. Trying to read a map, hail a cab, and get to your destination can exhaust you further. Not to mention having to lug your heavy bags around as you try to sort it all out. Knowing you have a ride waiting to take you straight to your room so you can have a shower and a nap is definitely worth the extra money.

If you're traveling to a foreign country, language barriers can make airport transportation a nightmare, even if you have your handy dictionary with you. Just handing an address to a taxi driver isn't going to cut it in many countries, especially those that aren't as westernized (most won't have a GPS!). If your hotel is far, they may not know the fastest way to get there, let alone where it is at all without any references. Many taxi drivers operate in a very small area or deal with locals who know where they are headed. When you book yourself a shuttle or driver beforehand, you can rest assured they will have time to map out the best route to take.

Will there be taxis or shuttles when you arrive? In smaller cities, few drivers may venture out late at night or very early in the morning. Finding a ride to your destination between the hours of midnight and 5am may prove impossible, especially if you arrive around the holidays when many people are taking extra time off to be with their families. Some unfortunate travelers find themselves sleeping on a bench until taxis start queuing up again. You don't really know what you will be up against until you get there, so it's better not to take chances.

Grabbing a taxi can end up costing you more than you anticipate, which is another reason that prearranging airport transportation will likely work in your favor. It can cost just as much if not a good deal more especially if a tip is required. You may also have to pay for toll charges. If you aren't familiar with local laws, you may also be a target for scams, which can include holding your luggage hostage, driving off with it, or taking you to a remote location until you pony up an acceptable bribe.