Although it is still one of the safest and fastest ways to get from point A to point B, air travel has become far less enjoyable in recent years.
Today's passengers can expect longer lines, smaller seats, fewer amenities, and higher ticket prices.
In other words, flying has become an unpleasant but necessary chore.
And when it ends, the only thing most of us can think about is getting out of the airport as quickly as possible.
With that in mind, here are the five most common airport transportation options for tired travelers.
Public Transportation If you want to save money getting to and from the terminal, bus service is often the cheapest option.
Of course it is also the slowest, least helpful way to go.
Do not expect anyone to give you a hand with your luggage or bags.
You may also have to wait awhile for the bus to show up, since they run on their schedule, not yours.
Last but not least, the bus may not drop you off exactly where you need to go, which means that you either have to walk or take a taxicab to get to your ultimate destination.
Shuttles Unlike buses, shuttles can be found at most airport terminals.
They are generally quicker, more comfortable, and more accommodating than public transportation.
But because shuttles are much smaller (typically vans), they often cost quite a bit more for passengers that share their services.
Just like limo drivers, shuttle drivers meet their passengers at their assigned baggage carousels and take them, in a group, to their vehicles.
Taxicabs For travelers who do not have time to properly plan their trips, taxicabs are a great short-notice airport transportation option.
No matter where you are in the world or what time it is, there is almost always one waiting outside the airport's sliding doors.
The only downside is that they can be quite expensive, especially if you have a long ride.
So if you have a limited travel budget, it is often best to go with a more affordable option.
Rental Cars There was a time, not too long ago, when renting a car at the airport was a huge hassle.
But with the help of the Internet, it only takes a few minutes - and a few clicks - to ensure that your rental vehicle will be waiting for you when you land.
Of course, renting a car only makes sense if you will need one for several days on your trip.
The upfront costs are far too expensive to simply use it as an airport transportation option.
Private Sedan/Limousine Easily the most comfortable, expeditious airport transportation option (if you can afford it) is hiring a private driver to pick you up at the terminal.
Not only will your driver meet you the moment you arrive, he/she will also take care of your luggage and drive you anywhere you want to go.
Often less expensive than most travelers expect, when you book a private car in advance, the only thing you have to worry about is the actual flight.
Today's passengers can expect longer lines, smaller seats, fewer amenities, and higher ticket prices.
In other words, flying has become an unpleasant but necessary chore.
And when it ends, the only thing most of us can think about is getting out of the airport as quickly as possible.
With that in mind, here are the five most common airport transportation options for tired travelers.
Public Transportation If you want to save money getting to and from the terminal, bus service is often the cheapest option.
Of course it is also the slowest, least helpful way to go.
Do not expect anyone to give you a hand with your luggage or bags.
You may also have to wait awhile for the bus to show up, since they run on their schedule, not yours.
Last but not least, the bus may not drop you off exactly where you need to go, which means that you either have to walk or take a taxicab to get to your ultimate destination.
Shuttles Unlike buses, shuttles can be found at most airport terminals.
They are generally quicker, more comfortable, and more accommodating than public transportation.
But because shuttles are much smaller (typically vans), they often cost quite a bit more for passengers that share their services.
Just like limo drivers, shuttle drivers meet their passengers at their assigned baggage carousels and take them, in a group, to their vehicles.
Taxicabs For travelers who do not have time to properly plan their trips, taxicabs are a great short-notice airport transportation option.
No matter where you are in the world or what time it is, there is almost always one waiting outside the airport's sliding doors.
The only downside is that they can be quite expensive, especially if you have a long ride.
So if you have a limited travel budget, it is often best to go with a more affordable option.
Rental Cars There was a time, not too long ago, when renting a car at the airport was a huge hassle.
But with the help of the Internet, it only takes a few minutes - and a few clicks - to ensure that your rental vehicle will be waiting for you when you land.
Of course, renting a car only makes sense if you will need one for several days on your trip.
The upfront costs are far too expensive to simply use it as an airport transportation option.
Private Sedan/Limousine Easily the most comfortable, expeditious airport transportation option (if you can afford it) is hiring a private driver to pick you up at the terminal.
Not only will your driver meet you the moment you arrive, he/she will also take care of your luggage and drive you anywhere you want to go.
Often less expensive than most travelers expect, when you book a private car in advance, the only thing you have to worry about is the actual flight.