Airport taxis

An airport transfer is a private hire booking made in advance. Private hire cars cannot be hailed in the street, so the firm takes your pick-up address, time, destination and number of passengers, then sends a licensed driver in a licensed vehicle.

Give the firm your flight number as well as the time. Many firms use it to check arrival times, but ask whether they do, and what happens if a flight is delayed. For an early departure, allow for the journey to the airport, the check-in and security times your airline recommends, and a margin for traffic.

On arrival, ask where the driver will meet you. Airports each have their own pick-up and drop-off arrangements, and some charge for dropping off or waiting near the terminal. Ask whether the fare you are quoted includes any such charges, parking and tolls, so there are no surprises on the day.

Tell the firm how many people are travelling and how much luggage you have. A standard saloon seats up to four passengers but its boot space is limited, so larger groups, skis, golf clubs or lots of suitcases may need an estate car or a larger vehicle. Child seats are worth asking about when you book rather than on the day.

Any firm you book should be licensed by the local council, and its drivers and vehicles should be too. If you are unsure, check the council's licensing register, and keep the booking confirmation so you have the agreed details to hand.