How shared shuttle transfers work from New York
Your New York trip is coming to an end and you need to get back to the airport? Here's what you need to know about a shared shuttle transfer back to the airport.
What is a shared shuttle transfer?
- A shared shuttle transfer is a ride in a shared van. The shuttle picks you up directly in front of your hotel or apartment in Manhattan and drops you off at your choice of airport.
- Here’s the trade-off: shared shuttles cost much less than a taxi or private car transfer, but you’ll share the ride with up to 10 other passengers plus the driver.
How does a shared shuttle transfer to the airport work?
- Unlike airport arrival transfers to your hotel, you must call the shuttle company’s dispatch center at least 24 hours before your departure to confirm your pickup time. If you’re not comfortable calling in English, New York hotels can do it for you. Ask the concierge or front desk to call on your behalf—just show them your voucher. A $2 tip for this service is appreciated.
- On the day of your transfer, be ready on time and wait for your shuttle on the sidewalk in front of your hotel. If it’s raining or cold, you can wait in the hotel lobby.
- When your driver arrives, give them a copy of your voucher with the transfer details. If you booked a round-trip transfer, print two copies of your voucher.
- The driver may stop at nearby hotels to pick up other passengers, then head to the airport. Keep in mind: each shuttle serves only one airport—either JFK, Newark, or LaGuardia. Make sure you select the correct departure airport when you book and confirm.
What pickup time should you request at your hotel?
- Build in extra time for unexpected delays—traffic accidents, road work, or congestion. Check your flight departure time and request pickup 4 hours before. This buffer accounts for the roughly one-hour drive, possible stops at other hotels, and traffic leaving Manhattan.
- You’ll have 2 to 2.5 hours at the airport for check-in and security, which can involve long lines. After that, you’ll have time to browse duty-free shops, grab a meal, or pick up last-minute souvenirs.
How do you book your return transfer to the airport?
- If you didn’t book a round-trip transfer initially, go to the page for shared shuttle transfers between your hotel and your choice of New York airport. Again, make sure you select the correct airport: JFK, Newark, or LaGuardia.
- If you’re staying in an apartment rather than a hotel, you can also book a shared shuttle to the airport. Visit the page for shared shuttle transfers between a Manhattan apartment and your choice of airport. Safe travels!