What is the best way to get a family of 6 with luggage from San Jan airport to our hotel (Hyatt City Center) and then to cruise port. Then after the cruise back to the airport? We typically use Uber but with our luggage and some of the local restrictions I wasn't sure.
Trip to San Juan for cruise with a family
The Guru Take
UberXL may fit, but luggage is a concern.
It looks like many experts are suggesting two UberXs for this trip. This is wise because while UberXL can fit up to six passengers, the luggage compartment can be iffy, depending on the size of the car you get.
You could always order UberXL and a) see what kind of vehicle you get, or b) upon arriving, try to fit the luggage in. If it doesn't suffice, you could apologize to the driver, cancel the ride and call two UberXs. You would be on the hook for a cancellation fee (~$5), but this may be worth it for the chance to only take one car.
You may also consider UberSUV, which generally offers larger cars, such as the Suburban or Escalade. They do cost more but at least you can travel together!
Some general guidelines below:
Sedan - Provided by services like UberX, UberBlack, and Lyft, these can hold up to 4 passengers, and have trunk space. Trunk space for 2-3 large suitcases or 3-4 medium/small suitcases. Remember that if you have less than 4 passengers, you can stow luggage in the unoccupied seats. (within reason)
- SUVs - Provided by services like UberSUV, UberXL, and Lyft Plus, these cars can hold up to 6 passengers (not counting the driver), and have trunk space for luggage. You can fit 4-5 large suitcases or 5-6 medium suitcases.
Here is a guide with more details and car make and model:
How much luggage can I bring in my Uber/Lyft?
Comments
SJU to the City Center area hotels is about 6 or 7 miles. Last time I was there, Uber could only drop off at SJU, not pick up, so you're probably going to have to hire two taxis. Figure ~$30 per cab from SJU to the hotel.
From the hotel to the Cruise port is only about 3 miles, and you can probably move your party and bags there in two Uber vehicles. (just make sure two people in your party have the app and separate accounts available on their phones so you can request the rides at the same time)
From the cruise port back to SJU is approx 10 miles. You may catch a couple of Uber cars there, but they can be hard to find at times. Don't push a tight schedule, and allow extra time for unexpected travel delays.
Have fun!
I would suggest using two Uber X. You will have to order one per phone - you can't order two. An XL most likely will not be able to handle it, but two x's should be able. And keep in mind the price difference between two x vs one xl is relatively insignificant.
Uber isn't allowed to pick up at SJU, so the only options from there are either taxi or car rental.
How much luggage? I drive XL it fits up to 7 passengers but not much trunk room when all 3 rows have passengers. If its 6 big suitcases may be tight squeeze or not possible. You could do 2 Uber X cars 3 each car and then you would have room in trunks for luggage. As of April 2018 Uber can drop off at AP but not pick up. Trying to see if that has changed since then.