Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

I am flying solo out of JFK and am trying to figure out the cheapest and/or easiest way to get there.

If I park in long term at JFK it's $126.

If I park off premises its $107.

If I take the train from Wantagh to Jamaica its $25 round trip and then the cost of the airTrain is $15 round trip. So a total of $40.

My only issue with using the train is that I know it takes 30 minutes to get from Wantagh to Jamaica but I have no idea how long it will take to get from Jamaica to Terminal 5.

Any advice? Does anyone know how long it takes on the airTrain to get from Jamaica to Terminal 5?

Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

Rent a car. We live MUCH closer to McArthur and my parents recently went to Vegas via JFK. THey rented a car from McArthur to JFK (one way) for $40 for 2 hours. on the way back, they rented for 24 hours from JFK to McArthur because they got in late - again, one way. That was about $45....so all in all, it cost them $85 round trip from the airport. If you can get someone to get you to a rental car place, it can be cheaper - and the rental car returns at JFK have shuttles to your terminal.

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

take the train!!!!!!!!!!!!!

wantagh to jfk- then is $5 to use the air train each way. u will be in T5 in 10 min from Jamaica. its SO easy! dont even think twice

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

The air train is only $5 each way so it's $10 r/t.

I always give myself at least 30-35 mins to get from the air train to the terminal. I go out of Delta. Forgot which terminal it it.
That 30 mins..is getting off the LIRR, hitting the bathroom, waiting for the air train and getting to the terminal.

Message edited 3/29/2016 2:58:59 PM.

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

Lirr to AirTran. Easiest thing, least expensive and you don't have to worry about traffic or accidents. It's quick from Jamaica to terminal 5. Trains run every 10 minutes or so during peak hours.

I'd leave extra time and enjoy a meal and a drink at terminal 5. They have good options and would rather be there early relaxing than anxious I'll be late.

Have fun!

Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

Thanks ladies! I knew you guys would be able to help. I usually loathe the train and avoid it at all costs.

Departing out of JFK isn't the issue because I will be on a 6am flight to LA but when I come home the plane gets in at 5:30p and that's peak rush hour time.

For $35, I think I'll take the train. Since I am leaving so early I should be able to get a great spot at the train station too!

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

OMG train all the way.
For the lack of traffic alone. To avoid the Belt at all costs.
I love that airtrain
Best thing the city ever did

Once you are on the airtrain it's like 10 min to terminal 5.
But always leave extra time in case of LIRR delays etc

I'd rather be early and hang out in the airport

Message edited 3/29/2016 3:08:41 PM.

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Message edited 3/29/2016 3:13:48 PM.

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Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

I always uber to the lirr then take train to work and from work i head to the airport.

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

If you do the train, go to bellmore instead if you have luggage. They have an elevator to the platform. This is what I do when I take the train to jfk even though I also live in wantagh. I personally find it incredibly easy and organized to take the train.

Re: Getting to JFK - Drive or Train

Airtrain without a doubt. Its super easy and so convenient. I posted a similar question a few months ago, and have done it twice since then. Its FABULOUS.