Travel expert names 5 holiday hacks to avoid airport pick-up disaster

Reliable airport transfers are more valuable to Brits than ever, with many passengers scrambling for taxis and struggling to find designated pick-up points at major transport hubs. Luckily, an expert has shared five practical, traveller-first tips for ensuring a seamless airport pick-up.

A 2024 IATA Passenger Survey found that 68% of travellers rank “smooth airport-to-hotel transit” as a top factor in overall travel satisfaction, while UK travel forums frequently cite long taxi queues at peak arrival times, sometimes exceeding 45 minutes at major hubs like Heathrow and Gatwick.

According to Transfeero, preparation is the key to turning a potentially frustrating arrival into a seamless, stress-free transition from airport to destination. The company’s resident travel expert, Andrea Platania, has shared five ways to up your chances of a smooth pick-up.

Booking your airport transfer ahead of time means you are less reliant on chance, which is especially low during busy travel periods like summer holidays or bank holiday weekends.

Once you’ve secured your booking though, it’s important to confirm all pickup instructions with your provider. This should include exact meeting points inside the terminal (e.g., arrivals hall signage, specific exit doors).

Even the most meticulously planned trips can be derailed by delayed departures, rerouted flights, or early arrivals. Supplying your pick-up contact with your flight number allows them to monitor real-time flight data and adjust their own arrival accordingly.

Choosing the right vehicle is more than just a comfort preference, it’s also a practical necessity. An undersized car can mean cramped seating or unsafe stacking of luggage — not ideal for particularly long journeys. Consider the number of passengers, total bags, and any oversized items such as ski gear or pushchairs when booking your pick-up car.

Arrival zones are notoriously crowded, and it’s easy to miss your driver even if you know what vehicle to look out for. Thus, having their mobile number or an in-app chat function ready means you can quickly connect and coordinate.

Special needs like child safety seats, wheelchair accessibility, or extra luggage capacity require advance notice to ensure your vehicle is equipped and ready. Advising your driver or travel company of these needs early helps them prepare an appropriate car and any additional equipment.

According to Andrea: “The difference between a stressful arrival and a seamless one often comes down to two things: preparation and communication. By pre-booking and sharing your flight details, you’re giving your transfer provider the information they need to meet you at exactly the right time and place. Start your trip with confidence.

“In our experience, the best results come when travellers think ahead about their unique needs, whether that’s extra luggage space, child safety seats, or accessibility requirements.”