NYC (New York City) savings here we come. Our travel to the Big Apple was sure to be expensive. We knew this going into it. We are here for the BlogHer Conference and we shot our wad on the flight, conference( full access) and one of the finest hotels. With that said, we wanted to save a little cash regarding other things such as travel. Here are a few tips that we learned on traveling from JFK into Manhattan.
Rather than take an expensive cab into the city, we rode the subway into Manhattan. This was super easy and saved us an average of $25+ per person. Yes, a taxi might be quicker and more comfortable but we knew it would cost around $52 plus tip. So, riding the subway, we saved half! Yay! When traveling with more than 3, a cab might be the way to go but for us two chicks, we chose the subway for the savings.
Cheapest Way From JFK to Manhattan
Here is how we did it. Take AirTran to the subway terminal then depending on your destination choose Jamaica or Howard Beach. We were headed to midtown, we took Jamaica station.
One thing we really recommend is to request a subway map before departure. This helped us be able to map out our plan and see exactly what our options might be before travel. We became familiar with the subway prior to departure and mapped out our destinations before we set out. Maps and schedule times are available free at any manned subway ticket counter.
Here is how you decide which trail to take. If you are going downtown (south of 14th Street), take the A train-Howard Beach. If you are going to midtown/time square or uptown (north of 14th Street), take the E train- Jamaica Station.
When transferring from air train to subway there was a $5 sots to exit plus a $2.25 card fee. Ticket booths were available to pay this amount and we knew to have cash ready. Since we were going to be in NYC for more than 3 days, we knew to purchase a 7 day unlimited metro card. This card can only be purchased in cash at the store across from kiosk machines.
There were opportunities to buy post cards, maps, phone accessories, selfie sticks, magazines and more at this location, but we knew to wait because costs are 4 times as much than when purchasing in Little Italy, China town or on the streets of Manhattan.
When taking the subway into Manhattan from the airport , it does take a can-do attitude. If you have more than two bag or don’t think you could carry your luggage up 50 stairs, maybe this subway things not for you after all. We felt able and strong to do this so we did but not without a few stops and breathing techniques. Whew! in other words!
New York City subways are packed and everyone is in a hurry so we just took our time and took a few breathers along the way! For sure, the time of day will depend on travel time and business. I always over estimate so I’m not disappointed and this trip was no different. We did good getting in, out and around on this venture. Also, prepping for one and half hours travel time from JFK to Manhattan was a smart thing to do. Planning is paramount for success. We love New York!
Katie Girl
