New York airport transfers: Everything you need to know
New York City has various buses, subway lines, and regional trains that you can use to go from point A to point B. Though you can use all of them to get to the airports, why waste precious time when you have so many things to see? With an airport transfer in New York, you’ll have enough time to say hi to the Statue of Liberty and chill in Central Park.
Are airport transfers available at all airports in the New York area?
You can reach all three major airports in the New York region by airport transfer. While having different airports to choose from can be convenient and allows you to compare prices and flight details, it can also lead to confusion. Always make sure you double check which airport you are traveling through, as the last thing you want during vacation is to miss a flight.
John F. Kennedy International Airport, located around 30 to 40 minutes from Manhattan, operates both domestic and international flights. Another international option, LaGuardia Airport, is located in New Jersey and it will take you roughly 35 to 50 minutes to travel to downtown New York. The final airport, Newark, is a hub also located in New Jersey but further away than LaGuardia. If you’re landing at Newark, you can plan for a trip into the city of around 45 minutes to an hour.
Why are airport transfers in New York a convenient transportation option?
Taxis in New York use a meter system, meaning that if you are stuck in traffic, you will end up paying more. Most airport transfers offer a flat rate, allowing you to save a few bucks if you’re traveling during rush hour. In the winter, New York often has rainy and snowy weather, which no one wants to deal with while walking to the subway or bus stop.
In the summer, it can get hot and humid, which is also uncomfortable. With an airport transfer, you can be picked up directly at your doorstep and stay dry. Not all subway lines have escalators or elevators, so it can be a hassle when you are traveling with heavy luggage. You won’t have to do that with a private transfer. Save your strength for all that New York has to offer!
How much should I expect to pay for a New York airport transfer?
If you’re traveling on a budget, you can opt for less expensive, shared airport transfers. They will often pick you up from Grand Central Station, centrally located in Manhattan. If you will be going to JFK Airport or LaGuardia, plan on paying approximately $20 to $30 for a shared vehicle. If you are going to Newark, the fare will be closer to $25 to $35.
When should I plan on scheduling my airport transfer?
If you will be traveling during the rush hours of 7 to 9 am and 4 to 6 pm, make sure to give yourself extra time. Flying is stressful enough already, so being late to the airport is just not worth it. Prepare for JFK airport to be very busy and make sure to give yourself time to go through security.
You will want your airport transfer to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off. Since both LaGuardia and Newark are in New Jersey, play it safe and book your airport transfer a few minutes earlier in case of unexpected traffic.
What is the easiest airport to reach with an airport transfer in New York?
LaGuardia Airport is spread out and doesn’t have any buses, trains, or trams to take travelers to the different terminals. Because of this, it is nice to have an airport transfer, as the driver can take you directly to your gate. This saves you from struggling with your suitcases and dragging everything during a 10-minute walk. Besides, why stress more than necessary?
As Newark is the furthest away from the city, it can be a pain in the neck to get there with public transportation. Save yourself the time and headache and grab an airport transfer instead. It is better to be sitting in a comfortable vehicle than switching back and forth between subway lines.