Getting to Charlotte.

Need a Ride? Let’s Talk Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (Well, Mostly Just Automobiles)

So, you need to get to Charlotte Airport without taking out a second mortgage? Let’s weigh your options—because in the transport world, you can usually pick two: cheap, fast, or convenient. But you can't pick all three. Somethings gotta give.

A motto for every small business.

🚌 SunWay Charters run a few routes near Boone, but don’t expect to roll up curbside at the airport. The Greyhound station is six miles out, so bring comfy shoes or a backup plan.

🚐 Hickory Hop: Affordable but not fancy. Set routes, shared rides, and a free parking perk if you drive to Hickory. I’ve used it. It works. Drive to Hickory Hop in Hickory and park for free. Cheap shuttle to CLT.

🚖 Private Shuttle (Ahem... like EZ Shuttle)Middle of the road price, but top-tier convenience. Door-to-door, your schedule, comfy ride. Think of it like a rented car—minus the hassle and with a friendly driver (hi, that’s me).

🚗 Rent a Car: DON'T ORDER A ONE WAY RENTAL FROM BOONE. Online says you can, but the the folks in Boone say you can't. You'll show up, and leave empty handed with a "Sorry Charlie." Read the reviews at Yelp. Holidays? Forget about it. Boone’s rental scene is hit-or-miss, and online reservations don’t always mean there’s a car waiting.

🚙 Independent Drivers: Reserve early. They’re flexible, local, and personable—but book fast before they’re all scooped up. Bonus: You get to pick your driver like you're assembling an Avengers squad. The best drivers will, if unavailable refer you to other reputable companies. Facebook, Google and Yelp are all good ways to find your drivers. Other community list include: AppState, ExploreBoone.com, and HighCountryHost.

🚕 Uber and Lyft: Sometimes: You could get one from Charlotte to the High Country but next to impossible to get one from Boone to CLT. Rates vary. Might work in a pinch. Or not. You might get a reservation but a no-show. More info?

🚘 Drive Yourself: Short trip? Just park it. Airport parking is usually cheaper than a shuttle if you're gone for only a couple of days. Lots of options but no room for details here. See my other blog post about parking in Charlotte.

🎩 Rent a Limo: Because why not go full Gatsby? Pricey, but oh-so-smooth. You can find a good list of options here with links at Explore Boone.

Final Tips: When inquiring about a shuttle:

• include your day,

• time, pick-up, and

• drop-off info.

• Get a price quote before commiting.

• Ask when payment is due? Is there a deposit required?

• Cancellation fees?

• Vet your driver and company as best you can with referrals, or online.

Bon voyage—and may the traffic lights always be green.

EZ Shuttle of the High Country 828-414-4969‬ or hcezshuttle@gmail.com