Travelling from New York to JFK
 

Hello,

I am travelling to the US for the first time with a friend. Our phones don't have internet access neither do we have an UBER app ... A friend is taking us around New York for the day then we need to get to JFK by 6.30pm.

How long before the flight should we get to JFK - we're flying with Delta airways ... We don't know where in New York we will be at the end of the day!! .. but is it better to catch a taxi or a private car? We want to make sure it's a safe option being young girls on our first time to US! ... at the same time, affordable too.

If Private cars are a good option, is there a good one someone could recommend and how could I make a booking?

Any other travel trips would be appreciated too !!!! We're doing 7 stops in 10 days so we're really going to be running!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks so much,

Assuming your flight at JFK is domestic you need to arrive 2 hours in advance to check in/go through security - meaning arriving at 4:30 and leaving Manhattan no later than 3:30 pm. You don;t say where your luggage is - so picking it up may require additional time.

I would not try to get a cab at that time - since you might waste a lot of time looking for one.

You need to call a car service, Carmel or Dial 7 are reliable, and have them pick you up no later than 3:30. They will give you a fixed quote for the fare (no more than cab) but you also need to pay bridge or tunnel toll and 20% tip (as you would with a cab). The total cost is about $70.

These prices are the same anywhere in Manhattan - it doesn't matter where you are - but of course have to fix the location in advance.

Thank you so much nytraveler, that is really helpful. Much appreciated ;)

I'd leave earlier. Traffic from NYC to JFK can be a nightmare. I'd allow an extra hour, personally. I don't like close calls when having to catch a plane.

There isn't going to be much 'day to take you around' really. Is this a week day? If so you probably should be on the way by maybe 2:30. So maybe one site and lunch may be about it.

You'd better read this, carefully!

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/03/bu...ines.html?_r=1

If you can manage your own luggage, taking the Airtrain from Penn Station is more predictable in terms of transfer time. It takes about an hour to get from Penn Station to your terminal. Then you still have to check in and go through security. Arrive at the airport no later than 3:30 for an international flight. That means you need to leave for the airport absolutely no later than 2:30.

Since you'll be traveling to JFK during the beginning of rush hour, I strongly advise against a taxi or car service. Traveling by road could add 30 minutes or more to your travel time on a weekday (though likely nothing if it's a weekend).