Like many other industries, transportation is changing rapidly thanks to advances in technology.

Get
ahead of the trends and brainstorm how you can implement them to impress guests before, during, and
after your next event with these ideas and tips.

Emerging Transportation Trends

These exciting developments are currently being perfected but experts agree it’s likely we will see them
become mainstream within our lifetime. Keep an eye out for these – some will become available in
select cities before they’re released worldwide, which means your next event location might be
perfectly primed to take advantage of these shiny new options.

1. Self-Driving Cars. This trend is even closer than we think, as 1,400 self-driving cars are currently being
tested by about 80 companies in 36 states according to a recent report by TechCrunch.

2. Gyroscopic Cars. Before flying cars become a reality, it’s more likely you’ll see these bus or train size
vehicles hovering on stilts above traffic. Researchers are exploring how to implement gyroscope systems
on monorails that could be built into our current roadway system.

3. Mobility as a Service (MaaS). Ride-sharing programs are just the start of the shift away from
personally-owned vehicles and towards a network of mobility solutions from one service. Not only will
this decrease congestion in major cities, it will also make scheduling transportation easier as it
potentially can be done in advance and from one system.

Explore 29 Event Transportation Ideas

Go beyond the traditional four-person vehicle and try one of these innovative concepts for your next
transportation need.

Explore 29 Event Transportation Ideas

Go beyond the traditional four-person vehicle and try one of these innovative concepts for your next
transportation need.

1. Smart Cars

Due to their size, Smart Cars are the most cost-effective option when renting a vehicle. Schedule these
in advance before your rental company runs out of them. Newer models run only on electric, so
research charging stations nearby in advance or select a venue with charging stations.

2. Advanced GPS Devices

An advanced GPS device has functionalities beyond what a free app on a smartphone can do. The
screens are typically larger, making it easy to see directions. Some devices also keep riders safer by
giving visual and audible alerts if a railroad crossing, animal crossing, or tight curve is up ahead. Ensure
the devices are charged before giving them out to users, and provide the proper cords for charging.

3. Personal Public Transportation Pods

This mode of transportation is available in a handful of locations, but it’s ideal for small groups of
passengers with no baggage. The types of payment accepted by these services vary and some only take
cash or exact change. Hang appropriate signage to make event attendees aware of these limitations.

4. High-Speed Railways

This mode of transportation is favorable as its faster than flying by the time you account for flight check-
in and lines at security. While each railway is different, most don’t limit the weight or number of bags
passengers bring but passengers are responsible for carrying their own bags. Remind your event
attendees that they need to feel comfortable lifting their luggage into compartments or provide this
service for them.

5. Rideshare Aggregator App

If your event budget is a concern, utilize a rideshare aggregator app to compare prices of popular
rideshare apps and get the best deal. Doing so will also save time as you won’t have to open and close
each app and re-enter your trip details to see the rates. Bellhop is one example of an app with these
capabilities.

6. Weather Apps

Bad weather can throw even the greatest event off-track. Get ahead of Mother Nature with an app
that’s friendly for both iPhone and Android users. Use it to foresee transportation cancellations and
arrange alternative plans.

7. Construction Prediction App

Navigating around construction is not only a headache – it can cause arrival delays and throw off the
timeline of your event. Certain navigation apps can warn you if construction is causing any problems.
Some cities post construction updates to their social media too.

8. Event Navigation App

Designing an app specific for your event that outlines the various locations and transportation options
for staff and attendees would require resources, but it would be a worthy investment. The app would
make this relevant information available in one place.

9. Work with a transportation designer

You have enough on your mind with all the event’s logistics. Leave the transportation configuration to a
professional. A transportation designer will work with you to create a custom plan for your event that
meets your goals.

10. Electric buses

This eco-friendly alternative will reflect well on your event’s branding compared to diesel-operated
buses. No matter what type of transportation you are reserving, make sure you secure ADA compliant
options.

11. Personalized Limo Rentals

Give your guests the epitome of luxury by providing personalized limos for their transportation. Inquire
about the rental company’s food & beverage policy to see if they will provide light refreshments during
rides.

12. Uber Helicopter Service

Platinum and Diamond members of Uber’s Rewards program can rent a helicopter to take up to five
passengers from Lower Manhattan to the John F. Kennedy Airport. In addition, they provide car service
to and from the helipad at each location. Book these rides on-demand as needed or up to five days in
advance.

13. Lyft Concierge

With Lyft Concierge, you can request a Lyft for someone and pay for it all within your app. Those
unfamiliar with Lyft may not understand its services or what branded vehicles to look for, though, so
consider providing a document to them with an explanation.

14. Taxi Service Apps

When you are planning international travel, securing taxi transportation is safe and reliable when using
taxi service apps such as Olacabs, Cabubble, or Free Now (formerly mytaxi). Book these reservations
using a travel credit card for extra points or statement refunds.

15. Motorcycle Ridesharing

Riding on the back of a motorcycle makes your guests’ experience as much about the journey as their
destination. With websites like Riders Share and Twisted Road, you can rent a bike from current bike
owners. The bike operator just needs to have a motorcycle license. Before you rent, clarify with the bike
owner if they provide appropriate safety gear.

16. Uber and Lyft Alternatives

While Uber and Lyft take up about 98% of the rideshare market in the US, they aren’t the only apps in
town. SideCar, Curb, and Juno are just a few alternatives gaining ground. Each app fills a niche that Uber
and Lyft may be missing out on, so research the apps to see which is the best fit for you.

17. Waze’s Global Event Partners Program

Waze offers a traffic management program for event planners to improve your event traffic flow and
ensure everyone arrives in a safe and timely manner. Best of all, this service is free!

18. Bicycle & Scooter Share

Renting a bike or a scooter offers flexible and low-cost ways to get from Point A to Point B. Research
what is available in your event’s city as these programs are often managed in part by the municipality.

19. International Low Fare Rideshare

Find convenient rides for low prices when traveling internationally. Becoming familiar with apps such as
DiDi and Gojek with take the guess-work out of hailing a ride quickly at a fair rate.

20. Organized Carpooling

If you are in charge of an event planning team or even if you’d like to make your morning commute less
lonely, sign up for a carpooling program. It’s a great way to reduce the cost of daily fuel, tolls, and
parking. Get started with Hitch-A-Ride, RideShark, and BlaBlaCar.
21. #TransitForFun

San Diego is promoting the idea that public transportation can be used to access unique local businesses
and entertainment. Embolden your event attendees to use public transportation by providing
information about your location’s various options and destinations.

22. Lyft’s Non Profit Partnership Program

Lyft is creating new ways for nonprofits to get as much as 1% back to their organization through rides.
You can sign up on their website to be notified when these programs become available.

23. On-Demand Transit Service Shuttles

Traditional public transportation services are becoming outdated as riders have to conform to the routes
and times provided. On-Demand Transit Service Shuttles are breaking this mold. Via is an example of this
service and you can utilize it for events in New York, Chicago, and Washington, DC.

24. Water Taxi Service

Traveling in a sightseeing boat is available in more areas than you may think! It operates similarly to
public transportation but over water instead of roads. Some individuals get nauseous when riding over
choppy water, so communicate clearly if this will be an option.

25. Post-Modern Skateboards

The Post Modern Skateboard is a new take on the classic skateboard. The board is gone but users still
have to use their balance to operate this two-wheeled toy. It isn’t ideal for excessive travel, but it would
be a fun surprise to offer guests who have to walk far distances.

26. Portable Rolling Platform

This personal transporter is another entertaining alternative to walking. It’s about the size and weight of
a laptop so it can be easily carried.

27. Electric Unicycle Rentals

Unicycles have several advantages over other personal transportation modes. The one wheel allows the
device to go up and down stairs, have greater speed capabilities, and go off-roading. Rent them through
a local company and remind riders to wear appropriate safety gear.

28. Specialty Carriage and Cart Rides

Add a sense of elegance and luxury to your event’s atmosphere by offering horse-drawn carriage or cart
rides. Preparations will need to be made in case extreme weather hits. For example, guests, horses, and
drivers will need access to water if temperatures are high.

29. Fair Driver Wage Apps

Rideshare apps are under scrutinization for unfair labor policies. Avoid associating your event with this
type of negativity by encouraging the usage of apps that are upfront about paying drivers fairly.