4 Different Transport Options When Planning a Vacation

Many people often forget about the importance of transport when planning a vacation. They don’t realise that transportation costs can easily exceed accommodation and other travel expenses, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Also, without a proper plan and reliable transport, your vacation can be cut short or end up stressful. The type of transport you choose depends on the available options in your destination, the itinerary, budget, the needs and size of the vacationing group.

Here are four different transport options to think about

Having Your Car with You

Having your car with you on vacation is probably one of the most stress-free options available. When planning a long trip, hiring a car can be an expensive option, but you need a reliable means of transport, especially when you have young kids or older adults with you. There are two options to get the car to your preferred destination

• Plan a road trip
• Have the car shipped to the location

Planning a road trip to the vacation destination is a thrill but needs proper planning to ensure it’s safe and doable. You’ll have the leisure of sightseeing on your way to the vacation destination making the trip worthwhile. However, it can be tiresome and time-consuming when covering extra-long distances. 

On the other hand, you can have the vehicle shipped to the destination by a shipping company such as CarsRelo. This is a more convenient and faster method than driving the car to the destination. 

If vacationing abroad, check the requirements for bringing a foreign vehicle with you and any taxes or particular insurance policies needed. The shipping company can advise you on how to go about it. They also take care of shipment back home after the vacation. 

Having your car with you is especially important when you need a car modified to meet your needs. Probably you have a large family or a special needs person who uses the vehicle. It might be harder and more expensive to find and hire a car that meets your specific needs when vacationing. 

Additionally, if you want to take a lot of luggage with you on your vacation or you’re more than four people in the group, this is a great option. You can drive around yourself or get someone else to do it for you. 

It’s also good if the person in charge has some experience driving abroad since they’ll know the rules avoiding trouble with the law or local community.

Hire a Car

Hiring a car is another option when on vacation, and you can either choose a self-drive or get a driver. For long trips, consider getting a driver enabling you to relax, enjoy the journey and bond with the group. 

The driver can also become your tour guide and a resourceful friend. You’ll probably end up experiencing or discovering things you wouldn’t without a local guide. If you plan to hire a car, special considerations are

• For how long do you intend to hire the car?
• Do you need the vehicle every day, or you’ll be hiring on demand?
• Where will you hire the car?
• What is the cost?
• What are the requirements?
• What type of vehicle do you need?

Don’t wait until you get to the travel destination to make transport arrangements. With the power of the internet, you can check the available options and choose depending on your needs, budget and preferences. Additionally, talk to your hotel or rental manager for recommendation or advice on the type of vehicle to select and requirements. 

Note that car hire companies may have different requirements from those in your region. Also, learning about the cost enables you to make the right decision on whether to bring your car along or hire on-demand. 

Public Transport

If you cannot drive or your destination is far from your home, public transport is a viable alternative. It’s also cheaper but not as dependable as when hiring or driving your car. There are different types of public transport systems – some cater to more tourists than others and may have scheduled departures and arrivals, while others may be regular buses that serve the area. 

You can either book online or purchase tickets at the point of departure before boarding the bus. Bus tickets tend to be cheaper than taxis, but you have to understand how public transport operates in the area. 

Many popular destinations have ready public transport systems that cater to tourists needs. However, public transport is not as safe as when hiring a car and when in an area where the crime rate is high, stick to the mode of transport other tourists use. 

Also, it’s less convenient when travelling with kids, older adults or with a lot of luggage. Nevertheless, it’s a great experience when solo travelling. You get to interact with the locals, make a few friends and learn their culture first hand. 

Rent a Bicycle

Renting a bicycle is an affordable transport option, a great way to keep in shape and explore a town or city. It also doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned rider or have never ridden one before. This mode of transport is available in many destinations, especially in Europe and Asia.

Cycling is an ideal way to get around as it’s not too fast and not too slow; you can see the sights at your own pace. Plus, there are no traffic jams when on a bicycle. Of course, you can join other bikers or explore on your own, but this is a sustainable mode of transport that will make your holiday more enjoyable at the end of the day.

Key to note, a car can be an affordable way to get around when travelling, but remember to check the fuel costs before setting off on your journey. When on long trips, don’t ignore fuelling stations, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the terrain or location. 

Furthermore, some destinations like mountainous areas or islands can be challenging to access by vehicle, so it’s best to research routes beforehand if you’re planning on driving yourself. Whatever transport option you choose, prioritise your safety, comfort and don’t spend more than you should.