If you're flying into Tampa International Airport and planning to use rideshare, knowing where to go before you request your pickup can make your arrival much easier. 

Uber and Lyft both operate at Tampa International Airport (TPA), but you'll need to head to one of the airport's designated ride-app pickup areas. 

Here's what to know. 

Key Takeaways 

• Uber and Lyft are available at Tampa International Airport. 
• TPA currently offers ride-app pickups at Red Express Curbside, Blue Express Curbside and the SkyCenter One remote curbside. 
• It's usually best to collect checked luggage before requesting your ride. 
• Families, larger groups and travelers with lots of luggage may want to compare rideshare with prearranged transportation. 

Where Do Uber and Lyft Pick Up at Tampa Airport? 

TPA currently designates three locations for ride-app pickups: 

• Red Express Arrivals Curbside (Level 1) 
• Blue Express Arrivals Curbside (Level 1) 
• SkyCenter One remote curbside 

Tampa International Airport is divided into a Red Side and Blue Side, so your pickup location may depend on where you are in the terminal. 

Always check the Uber or Lyft app after requesting your ride for your exact pickup instructions. 

How to Get an Uber or Lyft at TPA 

Once your flight arrives at the gate: 

1. Take the shuttle to the Main Terminal. 
After leaving your Airside, take the automated shuttle to the Main Terminal. 

2. Collect your luggage. 
If you are retrieving checked bags, proceed to Baggage Claim on Level 1, it's usually better to wait until you have them before requesting your ride, to avoid unnecessary waiting time charges. 

3. Request your Uber or Lyft. 
Open the app, enter your destination and choose the vehicle that works for you. 

4. Follow the pickup instructions. 
Your app will direct you toward the appropriate ride-app pickup area. 

5. Verify your driver and vehicle. 
It is recommended to confirm the driver's name, vehicle and license plate before getting in. 

What If You Have a Lot of Luggage? 

Rideshare vehicles Passenger capacity and luggage capacity aren't always the same thing. 

If you're traveling with several suitcases, strollers, golf clubs or a larger group, make sure the vehicle you request has enough room. Cargo space can vary considerably from one rideshare vehicle to another. 

For larger groups, you may want to choose a larger ride option or arrange transportation in advance so passenger and luggage capacity can be confirmed. 

What About Uber or Lyft With Kids? 

Families traveling with young children should consider arranging car seats or booster seats before arriving in Tampa, as Uber and Lyft drivers in Tampa do not provide car seats. 

If you're bringing your own car seat, rideshare may work well for your family. Another option is to rent one when you arrive. Our Little Suitcase, a local baby gear rental company approved to operate inside Tampa International Airport, offers car seats, boosters, strollers and other baby gear for travelers. You can reserve your gear online ahead of time and pick it up upon arrival at TPA. 

If you'd rather have the car seat and transportation arranged together, you can also reserve a private transportation service that provides car seats or boosters. 

Is Uber or Lyft a Good Option From Tampa Airport? 

For many travelers, yes. 

Uber or Lyft can be especially convenient for solo travelers, couples, passengers with minimal luggage and anyone comfortable requesting transportation after landing. 

Booking your transportation in advance can make your trip easier if you're traveling with young children, have a larger group, carry a lot of luggage or simply prefer having your transportation arranged before your flight. 

Neither option is necessarily better; it simply depends on your trip and your personal travel preferences. 

Another Option: Prearranged Transportation From TPA 

If you'd rather have your airport transportation arranged before you arrive, Pick Me Up Tampa Transportation provides prearranged private transportation from Tampa International Airport. 



We serve families, couples, business travelers and groups, with vehicle options based on passenger and luggage needs. Car seats and booster seats are also provided upon request at no extra charge. 

Uber, Lyft and private transportation all serve different types of travelers. Knowing your options ahead of time can help you choose what's most convenient for your trip. 

Traveling through TPA? Explore more of our Pick Me Up & Go guides for practical tips on airport pickups, traveling with kids and getting around Tampa Bay.