Kuala Lumpur has two major airports KLIA and KLIA2 ( for budget airlines). Most travellers coming to KL for the first time are not aware of this and most of the time might end up going to the wrong airport. Budget airlines including AirAsia, Tiger, Firefly and other local airlines operate from KLIA2, while other international airlines use KLIA.
Commuting between both airports is quite easy using either train or bus which takes less than 10 minutes. For international traveller planning to catch a taxi, train or rental car all facilities are available at both airports and are regulated to ensure quality.
Catching a taxi to KL city
Do not negotiate with cab drivers approaching you on the terminal exit gates. There are counters for pre-booking taxi for all parts of KL. Simply inquire about these counters if you cannot find them from the information desk. Once you provide your destination, a fixed price is quoted to you and a voucher issued by paying a fee on the counter.
Walk up the taxi terminal and you have a designated taxi to take you to your destination. There are two services operating in KL, one is Premier and one is normal service
Charges for Premier taxi from the airport to KL City Center = RM 140
Charge of a normal taxi from the airport to KL City Centre = RM 90
Renting a Car at KLIA
You can walk up to any car rental agency and inquire about car rental rates for daily to monthly rentals. Most popular services are Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Rhino. You are advised to check rates online before arrival as you the rates quoted on the counter are significantly higher than the rates you get online.
One of the best online car rental resources is Rentalcars. You can save up to 40% on booking before-hand. Extra features may include free second drive, full insurance and road side assistance. The average car rental for a mid-size car can vary from the US $ 40 - 50/ DAY. Long term rental can give you free days and discounted rates. Make sure you check for special offers on the site and make a booking at least two weeks before arrival to get great rates and confirmed booking. During peak holiday seasons, you will not be able to find a car on arrival.
The car offers great flexibility and saves time and money if you are carrying lots of baggage. With more people on board, it is definitely the best way to go as road networks in Malaysia are great and it is very easy to navigate between cities.
Travel insurance is a must to cover of excess in case of loss of property, accident or damage to the vehicles. Do not take chances and make sure you are fully covered before starting your journey. You can explore 1Cover to compare travel insurance rates.
Catching Train to KL Central
If you are not carrying a lot of baggage KLIA Express train is the best option to travel to the city. The train can get you to KL Central in 28 minutes. From KL Central you can catch a train or taxi to any destination in the city. The ticket for this ride is RM 35.
