If you’re flying in or out of Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), you must know your transportation options. This guide covers everything from pre-trip planning to post-trip follow-up to make your DTW Airport Transportation experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Pre-trip planning: what to do before your flight
Pre-trip planning can seem daunting, but if you break it down into smaller steps, it’s easy to handle. The most important thing is to start early so you’re not rushed and stressed before your flight. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when you’re pre-trip planning:
- Check visa requirements if your destination is a foreign country. This is one of the most important and often overlooked steps. Ensure you give yourself enough time to get the required visas for travel.
- Get travel insurance. This will protect you in unforeseen circumstances, such as lost luggage or canceled flights.
- Alert the bank of your upcoming travel. This will help prevent any issues with your credit or debit cards while away.
- Pack your carry-on essentials: lip balm, shawl or scarf, headphones, books/movies/entertainment, and medications. These items will make your flight more comfortable and help pass the time if there are delays.
- Check the status of your flight and allow extra time for potential delays. Nothing is worse than being rushed to make a flight that ends up being delayed anyway. By checking the status ahead of time and allowing extra time in your schedule, you can avoid this stressful situation altogether
Getting to the airport: transportation options and tips
There are many ways to get to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). The best option for you will depend on a number of factors, including your budget, your travel companions, and the amount of time you have before your flight.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is one of the most economical ways to get to DTW. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) offers bus service to and from the airport seven days a week. Fares start at $2.25, and exact change is required. SMART also offers a 10-ride pass for $20.
For those traveling with children under 12 or adults over 65, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, there is a reduced fare of $1.10 per ride. Military personnel in uniform can ride for free. Buses have luggage racks, so you can bring everything you need for your trip.
The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) also offers bus service to DTW seven days a week from various locations around the city. Fares start at $2.00 for a one-way trip or purchase a 10-ride pass for $18.00. DDOT buses accept cash or tokens, which can be purchased at any DDOT office or select retail locations.
If you’re from Canada, the Windsor Airport Express offers direct service to DTW from Windsor International Airport (YQG). The express bus stops at both terminals at DTW and the McNamara Terminal ground transportation center. Fares start at CAD$19 (about $15 USD) for a one-way trip, and reservations are required. The Windsor Airport Express also offers discounts for children under 12, seniors over 65, students, and military personnel with valid IDs.
Rideshare Services
If you’re looking for a more convenient (and slightly more expensive) way to get to DTW, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. With Uber, you can request a ride through the app and pay automatically with your credit card – no need for cash tips! Lyft also allows you to request and pay for rides through their app; however, they encourage riders to tip their drivers in cash if they had a good experience.
Uber and Lyft offer different service levels, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. For example, UberX is their basic level of service; it’s typically cheaper than taking a taxi but more expensive than public transportation. If you’re looking for something luxurious (or want to arrive at the airport in style!), try UberSelect or Lyft Premier. Both services offer higher-end vehicles like sedans and SUVs. Prices will vary depending on demand and other factors; be sure to check the app before requesting a ride so that you know what to expect!
Taxis/Shuttles
Suppose you prefer not to use rideshare services or public transportation. In that case, another option is to take a taxi or shuttle directly to DTW. Several taxi companies serve the Detroit area; fares start at around $45-$50 USD for a one-way trip from downtown Detroit to DTW (not including gratuity). If you’re traveling with others and want to split the cost of transportation, consider taking a shuttle – fares start at around $17 per person.
At the airport: what to expect
When you arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), there are a few different steps you need to take before you can board your plane. First, you need to check-in. You can do this online in advance or at one of the kiosks located at the airport. Once you have your boarding pass, you must go through security. There are a few things to remember when going through security, such as taking off your shoes and taking out any liquids or electronics from your carry-on bag. After security, you must find your gate and board the plane.
There are a few things to remember when you are at DTW. First, the airport is huge – it has four terminals and two runways! That means giving yourself plenty of time to get from one place to another is important. Second, the weather in Detroit can be unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to check the forecast before you leave and dress accordingly. Finally, there are many different dining and shopping options available at DTW, so if you have time before your flight, explore!
Post-trip: follow-up steps after your flight
After your flight, there are a few important follow-up steps to take to ensure a smooth travel experience. Remember to return a car to the rental agency if you rent it. If you use public transportation, check schedules, so you don’t miss your ride. And if someone picked you up, thank them for their time. Finally, take a moment to review the airport’s website for any changes in policy or procedure that may have occurred since you planned your trip.
Returning a rental car is usually pretty straightforward – drive it back to the rental agency and drop it off with an attendant. If you’re using public transportation, things can be a little trickier. First, you’ll need to find out where your bus or train is going and when it arrives. Once you know that, give yourself plenty of time to get there – no one wants to miss their ride and wait around at the airport!
If someone was kind enough to pick you up from the airport, thank them for their time and effort. A simple ‘thank you’ goes a long way; they’ll know you appreciated their help.
Finally, take a quick look at the airport’s website. Airports are constantly changing and updating their policies and procedures, so it’s always good to double-check security procedures and terminal maps before your next trip. That way, you can avoid surprises and make your next travel experience smoother!
Resources: additional reading on DTW airport transportation
There are a few things to remember when planning your DTW airport transportation. First, research your options to see what is available and what would work best for you. Second, speak to customer service representatives from each company to get their insights. And finally, look for discounts or deals that can save you money.
However, even with all this planning, there is always the possibility that something could go wrong. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place. If your first transportation choice does not work out, don’t panic – plenty of other options are available.
Conclusion
As you conclude your time at the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), you should keep a few things in mind. First, if you rent a car, remember to return it to the rental agency. If you use public transportation, check schedules, so you don’t miss your ride. And if someone picked you up, thank them for their time. Finally, take a moment to review the airport’s website for any changes in policy or procedure that may have occurred since you planned your trip.
Regarding airport transportation, there is no one-size-fits-all solution – the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Researching and planning ensures that your experience getting to and from DTW is smooth and stress-free. Thanks for reading!
