Как работают заранее заказанные трансферы

Partner links: LarkTours compares options from partners and may earn a commission if you book through some links, at no extra cost to you. LarkTours is not the seller. Prices and availability are set by each provider, so check details on their site before you book.

A pre-booked transfer is a car, minivan or bus with a driver, reserved before your trip, that takes you from the airport, station or port to your hotel. It is often the easiest option after a long flight, late at night, or in a city where taxis are known for haggling.

What's typically included

• A fixed price, agreed in advance and usually per vehicle for private transfers, or per person for shared shuttles.
• Meet-and-greet: the driver waits in arrivals with a sign.
• Flight tracking: many services adjust the pickup if your flight is delayed, if you provided your flight number.
• Free waiting time after landing. Check how long is included and what happens after it.

Choosing the right vehicle

• Count your luggage, not just your passengers. Large suitcases fill a standard car quickly.
• Request child seats in advance if you need them.
• Groups can often save money with a minivan instead of two cars.

Before you travel

1. Give the right flight number and arrival time.
2. Save the confirmation, the meeting point and the driver or support contact offline.
3. Check the cancellation and change terms.
4. Make sure you'll have data on landing, so you can message the driver.

Transfer vs taxi vs app

Official taxis and ride-hailing apps can be cheaper on short urban hops. Pre-booked transfers come into their own on long or late journeys, with family luggage, or where kerbside touting is common.

Shared shuttles in detail

Shared shuttles group passengers from the same flight or time window, and drop them at several hotels. They usually cost less per person but take longer. You may also wait at the airport for other passengers. They work well for solo travellers with flexible time, and less well after a long-haul flight with children.

Beyond airports

• Train stations and ports: useful when arriving by ferry or cruise ship, or at stations far from your hotel.
• Intercity transfers: point-to-point rides between cities, for example from a gateway airport to a resort area. Sometimes they are faster than public transport with connections.
• Ski resorts and remote lodges: often the most practical option where public transport is sparse.

When things go wrong

• Can't find your driver: re-check the meeting point in your confirmation, then call or message the support number.
• Your flight is badly delayed: update the company if you can. Flight tracking doesn't always cover cancellations or rebookings to another flight.
• The driver doesn't show: keep records, such as screenshots and call times, before taking an alternative. You'll need them to request a refund.

Tipping

Tipping customs for drivers vary by country. In some places it's expected, in others it's optional. Check local norms for your destination.

Accessibility and special requests

Ask in advance about wheelchair-accessible vehicles, extra luggage, sports equipment such as skis, bikes or surfboards, and pets. Not every vehicle type is available everywhere, and a request isn't a guarantee until it's confirmed.

Comparing quotes

Compare like for like: vehicle class, number of seats and bags, waiting time, tolls and parking included or not, and cancellation terms. The cheapest quote isn't always the same service.

Booking for groups and families

Give the correct number of passengers and bags, because drivers may refuse to overload a vehicle. Check the local rules on child seats for infants and small children. Agree any extra stops, such as a supermarket or a second hotel, when booking rather than with the driver on the day, and keep the operator's support number, not just the driver's.

Read recent reviews that mention punctuality and how the company handles delays. A clear support channel matters more than a slightly lower price when a flight lands hours late at night.

Airport pickup rules

Some airports only let pre-booked drivers wait in specific zones or car parks, and some charge them parking. Read the meeting-point instructions in your voucher, which reflect those rules. Don't follow anyone who approaches you claiming to be your driver without showing your name and booking reference.

Checklist

• Give accurate flight numbers, passenger numbers and luggage details.
• Request child seats or accessibility features in advance.
• Save the voucher, meeting point and support number offline.
• Check the free waiting time and the cancellation policy.
• Agree any stops when you book.

FAQ

Is a transfer more expensive than a taxi?

Sometimes, sometimes not. It depends on the city, the distance and the time of day. Compare with the official taxi or rideshare options.

Can I book a return transfer?

Usually yes, and booking both ways at once is common.

What if my flight lands at a different airport?

Contact the transfer company as soon as possible. A diverted flight usually needs a new booking.

Do drivers speak English?

It varies by company and destination. Messaging apps with translation help.

Compare transfers on Kiwitaxi (partner) or GetTransfer (partner). Data for messaging your driver: Airalo (partner).