LAX, Los Angeles International Airport, is one of the busiest in the world catering for over 80 million passengers per year. Naturally, because LAX is massive, with heavy traffic, getting to LAX for large groups can be difficult. When you arrive to LAX it is essential that you arrange seamless LAX group transportation to begin your Los Angeles trip off on the right foot.
Whether you require shuttle buses or a charter vehicle, you’ll find the perfect choices for any number of passengers and budget constraints at LAX. When booking LAX group transportation, capacity of vehicle, ability to accommodate accessibility needs, advance reservations, pricing structures and COVID protocols are the most important to consider while booking. By pre–planning your airport transfers you can just sit back and enjoy the adventures that await you instead of worrying about logistics.
Types of Group Transportation Services at LAX
Shuttle Services
LAX offers an affordable form of group transportation from LAX in the form of shared ride shuttles. Shuttle vehicles (which may or may not be mass transit vehicles) make stops at designated shuttle hubs outside each terminal, picking up travelers that are heading in the same general direction. There are also some companies that run on regular routes to popular tourist destinations, like theme parks, beaches, or downtown hotels. Some run shuttle service on demand based on passengers’ needs as to where they need to get off.
For more privacy and flexibility, travelers can also reserve private shuttle vans. These can accommodate groups ranging from 4 to 50 passengers. Private airport shuttles allow you to customize routes and make stops along the way as needed. They are a great option for large families, wedding parties, and corporate travelers.
Charter Buses
Charter buses are a natural fit when traveling in a big group. Party buses, limo buses, double decker buses and other specialty vehicles have ample room for lots of passengers and luggage. Charter bus services cater to groups as small as 25 people or as large as 80+. Many providers like LA Chartered offer luxury buses equipped with reclining seats, WiFi, entertainment systems, and restrooms for comfort on longer trips.
Besides airport transfers, charter buses can shuttle your group to destinations around Southern California like beaches, national parks, casinos, concert venues and more. Buses that service Disneyland and other Los Angeles attractions often include free time at stops for meals and taking pictures. Coaches America, Coach USA, and other established bus lines plan extensive tour itineraries all over the West Coast.
Limousine Services
For those looking to ride in style, limousines are the ultimate luxury transportation option. Sedans and stretch limos with blacked out windows can carry small groups of up to 10 passengers. Larger limo buses have seating for 20+ people and come loaded with amenities like multiple flat screen TVs, hardwood floors, laser light shows and stocked bars.
Many limo companies offer group packages that include complimentary champagne, red carpet service, nightclub stops and more. Some even have dance pole limos for bachelorettes! Limo services are great for wine tours, brewery crawls and bar hopping adventures. Luxury ground transportation makes any occasion feel like a VIP celebration.
How to Arrange Group Transportation at LAX
Pre-Booking Options
The best way to guarantee group transportation from LAX is to book services at least 1-2 weeks in advance if possible. Many companies offer online reservations through their websites, allowing you to view vehicle options and pricing for your party’s size. Booking early secures availability and gives you time to get group rates.
You can also call service providers directly to ask questions and customize details. Be ready to supply your flight details, group headcount and any special requests when reserving transportation. Last minute bookings can be difficult as vehicles fill fast, especially for large groups.
On-Demand Services
While pre-booking group transportation is ideal, some shuttle and limo providers offer on-demand service on a first come, first serve basis. For example, LAX Shuttle has an on-demand dispatch center at each terminal where they assign vehicles to waiting travelers based on availability. Prime Time Shuttle also accommodates walk-up passengers in need of last minute rides.
Be aware that wait times for on-demand shuttles can vary greatly depending on traffic levels. You may not get seats together if joining existing shared routes. With limos, black car sedans are most likely to be available for immediate dispatch. For best rates and experience, early reservations are still preferable when coordinating LAX group transportation.
Cost Considerations
Pricing Structures
When budgeting for group transportation, be aware that different pricing models apply. Shared ride shuttles usually charge flat fees per person based on destination. For a private group shuttle bus, expect a single rate for the reserved vehicle. Pricing is typically determined by vehicle size and trip duration.
Metered rates apply to most charter buses, limo services and black car rentals. Factors like mileage, number of hours booked and additional stops all impact the final group rate. Be clear on details like overtime fees, tips and toll/parking costs too. Many companies offer tiered discounts for large groups to incentivize bigger bookings.
Additional Fees
Other common charges to keep in mind when booking group transportation include:
- Luggage Fees – Most shuttles allow 1-2 bags per person free before adding surcharges. Luxury buses may limit baggage to underneath storage.
- Wait Time Fees – You will incur expensive idle fees if your group leaves drivers waiting past the scheduled pickup window.
- Cancellation Fees – Make sure to review refund and cancellation policies before putting down deposits. Rebooking due to flight delays can mean losing non-refundable fares.
When comparing group transportation quotes, clarify what exactly is covered in the base rate versus what extras you may accrue. Read all fine print!
Tips for Choosing the Right LAX Group Transportation
Assessing Group Size and Needs
Consider how many people are in your party and whether you want privacy or are fine cramming into a shared shuttle van. Add a buffer to headcounts to allow for stragglers and last minute tag-alongs. Think about baggage and equipment needs given your LAX arrival/departure details – are wheelchair lifts or extra cargo space required?
Know if you need transportation suited for minors and those with disabilities. Having clearly defined requirements makes the vehicle selection process easier when booking.
Comparing Service Providers
Do some research before choosing an LAX transportation company. Search online reviews and check ratings on BBB, Yelp or TripAdvisor to verify quality of service and fleet dependability. Ask about their hiring practices – professional drivers should be licensed, bonded and insured for your protection.
Browse company websites to view available vehicles in their fleets. Look for modern models with plenty of room for passengers and gear. Reputable nationally-recognized brands like Mears often feature better maintained vehicles and standardized service policies.
Conclusion
Planning a group ground transportation to LAX can be enjoyable, affordable, and easy with proper planning. When arranging your party’s airport coming or leaving, consider vehicle limit essentials, access necessities, best booking windows, spending components, security accommodating and different variables crafted by this summary.
It is highly recommended to book the group transportation services in advance from the reputable providers so that their availability is guaranteed, and you won better pricing. Thinking of it, you can hire a Los Angeles limo service to make your transfer experience more luxurious.
