Holidays for single parents can feel more expensive when you are a solo parent having to pay a single person supplement or two adult prices despite travelling without a second adult. On top of that, there is only one salary covering the cost of your family holiday. So, after booking flights and accommodation, who wants to fork out for expensive airport transfers?
Navigating airport transfers shouldn’t drain your wallet or your patience. While most travellers with kids default to taxis or Meet and Greet, services like the Airport Express from Bright Bus not only save single travellers some money but also offer hidden advantages that go beyond basic transportation. Here are some strategies that will ensure you save a few pennies and begin your holiday stress-free:
Book Early to Save
Don’t leave booking your airport transfers to the last minute as any remaining bus tickets often come with premium pricing. Many operators release discounted coach fares weeks in advance, with early bird deals slashing costs by 20-30%. Also bear in mind that online bookings guarantee seats and typically beat walk-up rates. Some providers also offer exclusive mobile-only promotions, so it might be worth installing the app even if it’s only for the one journey. Airport parking and Meet and Greet spaces can also become quite costly closer to departure.
Timing is Everything
You probably already know how to book cheap flights. Booking airport transfers is no different as, similar to flights, midweek departures on coaches frequently cost less than weekend services. So, if your schedule allows flexibility, travelling on weekdays could mean significant savings. Similarly, choosing the right departure time makes all the difference in comfort and efficiency, so when booking flights keep in mind what time you need to travel to and from the airport:
Premium train and coach services often have lighter loads during mid-morning and late evening runs, so try to avoid the pre-work commuter rush (7 to 9 am ) and post-business-day scramble (4 to 6 pm) when possible. Red-eye routes (i.e. transfers running late at night or in the early morning hours) naturally tend to be quieter, offering better chances for empty seats if you don’t mind travelling with kids during these hours. Conversely, midday buses may include business travellers but often skip school group crowds.
Pack Like a Pro
Seasoned travellers know that packing smart beats packing heavy. Most buses enforce size restrictions, so measure bags beforehand as you would for your flight. Travelling with kids using hand luggage only is doable and makes airport transfers stress-free, too. Pack a capsule wardrobe or use compression cubes to maximize space while keeping essentials accessible during the ride. Tag every piece clearly—when dozens of identical rollers unload simultaneously, distinctive markings prevent confusion.
Whilst train companies are more lenient with size restrictions, luggage compartments on train services to/from the airport are often overflowing with luggage, so it’s wise to travel light. Whichever method of transport you use, consider using bright luggage straps or unique stickers for instant identification. You could tasks the kids with creating some of these to involve them in the planning.
Seat Selection Strategies
Not all seats on airport transfers offer equal comfort. Front rows on buses provide quick exits but more engine noise. Rear sections often have extra legroom but may feel every bump. Window seats near the middle typically offer the best balance of smoothness and scenery. Board early if you need the overhead space for your luggage. Later arrivals on the other hand can sometimes snag entire empty rows and benefit from their luggage being unloaded first once they arrive at the airport.
Loyalty Pays Off
If you and your children are frequent travellers, make sure to investigate reward programmes. Many coach operators offer punch-card systems or membership tiers with escalating benefits—free trips after ten rides, priority boarding, or companion discounts.
Some transit companies integrate airport services with local networks. A weekly city pass might include airport transfers at no additional cost, creating unexpected savings.
Hidden Perks on Airport Transfers
Many travellers overlook the amenities that can enhance your journey to the airport. Free Wi-Fi on airport coaches turns travel time into productive hours. Charging ports keep devices ready for arrival at the airport. Some premium services even offer complimentary refreshments.
Tech Tools for Smarter Travel
Downloading the operator’s app before departure doesn’t just save you money on fares; being able to track your airport transfer prevents unnecessary waiting at stops, while push notifications alert you to delays or gate changes. Offline maps help navigate terminals upon arrival.
Certain apps aggregate multiple providers, comparing prices and schedules across different companies. These platforms sometimes uncover obscure regional services with lower fares.
Alternative Ways of Getting to the Airport
Mainline airport buses aren’t your only option when it comes to airport transfers. Some suburban rail lines connect terminals with minimal transfers, often at low prices. Hotel shuttles also sometimes sell spare seats to non-guests for a fraction of standard rates. Regional coaches serving nearby cities may also include airport stops. These less-advertised options frequently have cheaper tickets than dedicated airport services.
If your kids are sensitive to noise, taxis may be preferable as they provide sanctuary from chatty passengers and other noisy kids. For single business travellers, designated workspaces available on trains can transform the journey into mobile office hours.
Conclusion
Be a savvy traveller and plan ahead. The extra minutes invested in planning your airport transfer, can reward you with a smoother journey and more holiday funds.
Pro Tip: Follow local bus operators on social media for flash sales—holiday weekends often see surprise discounts to fill empty seats.