Travelling with friends, family or workmates? Then you have probably faced the same question: should you book a maxi taxi in Melbourne, or just order two regular cabs? Both options get everyone moving. However, the right choice can save you money, time and a lot of stress.
In this guide, we compare a maxi taxi with two cabs side by side. We also explain when each option makes sense, how costs add up and how to book a group ride in Melbourne’s east without any hassle.
What Is a Maxi Taxi?
A maxi taxi is a larger vehicle, usually a van, that carries more people than a standard sedan. At Metro Cabs Melbourne, our maxi vans seat up to 11 passengers. They also have far more room for luggage than a normal car.
In other words, a maxi taxi lets a whole group travel together in one vehicle, with one driver and one booking. You can see every vehicle we offer on our fleet page.
Maxi Taxi vs Two Cabs at a Glance
Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | One Maxi Taxi | Two Regular Cabs |
|---|---|---|
| Passengers | Up to 11 in one vehicle | Up to 8 across two cars |
| Luggage space | Large, shared boot | Split between two boots |
| Group arrives together | Yes, always | Not always |
| Bookings to manage | One | Two |
| Fares to pay | One fixed quote | Two separate fares |
| Best for | Groups of 5 or more, airport runs, events | Small groups heading to different places |
When a Maxi Taxi Is the Smarter Choice
For most groups, one larger vehicle simply works better. In particular, a maxi taxi is the best choice in these situations:
- Groups of five or more: A standard taxi seats four passengers. As soon as you have a fifth person, you need a bigger vehicle or a second car.
- Airport trips with luggage: Families flying out often have suitcases, prams and carry-on bags. A maxi taxi fits it all, so nobody has to hold bags on their lap.
- Weddings and events: Guests arrive together and on time. For more ideas, see our wedding and event taxi service.
- Sports teams and work groups: Everyone travels together, which makes it easier to stay on schedule.
- Cruise departures: Big cruise suitcases need a big boot. Our cruise and port transfers often use maxi vans for this reason.
When Two Cabs Make More Sense
That said, two cabs can be the better option at times. For example, if your group is splitting up and heading to different suburbs, two cars avoid extra stops and detours.
Similarly, a small group of four or fewer with light luggage fits easily into one sedan or SUV. In that case, you may not need a maxi taxi at all. Our SUVs and wagons seat up to 7 people, which suits many mid-sized groups.
How Do the Costs Compare?
Cost is often the deciding factor. While a maxi taxi fare can be higher than a single sedan fare, it is usually compared with the cost of two cabs, not one.
With two cabs, you pay two full fares. Moreover, some charges apply to each vehicle. For instance, Melbourne Airport adds an access fee to every taxi that picks up from its ranks. So two cabs means paying that fee twice.
With a maxi taxi from Metro Cabs Melbourne, you get one fixed fare for the whole group. We never use surge pricing, so the quote stays the same at night, on weekends and during big events. To get a price for your trip, book online or call 0456 664 471.
How Much Luggage Fits in a Maxi Taxi?
A maxi van has a much larger cargo area than a sedan. As a general guide, it comfortably carries a suitcase and a small bag for most passengers. However, bulky items take up more space.
Therefore, please tell us about any of the following when you book:
- Large suitcases or cruise trunks
- Prams, strollers or portable cots
- Golf clubs, bikes or surfboards
- Wheelchairs or mobility aids
That way, we can confirm the right vehicle before the day. If your group has a lot of gear, we may suggest a maxi van plus a second car.
Tips for Booking a Maxi Taxi in Melbourne
A little planning goes a long way. Follow these simple tips for a smooth group trip:
- Book ahead: Maxi vans are popular, so reserve yours early, especially for airport runs and weekends.
- Give exact numbers: Tell us how many adults, children and bags are travelling.
- Ask for child seats: Baby seats and boosters are available on request.
- Add your flight number: For airport pickups, this helps us plan around your landing time.
- Choose one pickup point: Meeting at one address saves time and keeps the fare simple.
You can find more details on our maxi cab hire page.
Popular Group Trips in Melbourne’s East
Our maxi taxis travel all over Melbourne. Even so, these are some of the group trips we book most often:
- Airport runs: Families from Ringwood, Croydon and Forest Hill heading to Tullamarine or Avalon. See our airport transfers page.
- Yarra Valley winery days: Groups starting from Lilydale or Coldstream. For ideas, browse Visit Yarra Valley.
- Nights out in the city: Friends travelling into the CBD for dinner, a show or a game.
- Weddings and parties: Guests moving between the ceremony, reception and hotel.
Is a Maxi Taxi Safe?
Yes. In Victoria, taxis and booked vehicles must follow the rules set by Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria. Metro Cabs Melbourne operates under these rules, and every vehicle is kept clean and well maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people fit in a maxi taxi in Melbourne?
Our maxi vans seat up to 11 passengers, with extra room for suitcases, prams and sports gear. If you are close to that number, tell us how many bags you have so we can confirm everything fits.
Is a maxi taxi cheaper than booking two cabs?
Often, yes. Two cabs means two separate fares, and at Melbourne Airport each taxi pays its own access fee at the rank. One maxi taxi gives you a single fixed quote for the whole group. Call us for a quote on your route.
Do I need to book a maxi taxi in advance?
We recommend it. Maxi vans are in higher demand than sedans, especially for airport runs, weekends and big events. Booking ahead makes sure one is ready for your group.
Can a maxi taxi take us to Melbourne Airport?
Yes. A maxi taxi is one of the easiest ways to get a family or group to Melbourne Airport or Avalon Airport together, with all the luggage in one vehicle.
Can I bring child seats in a maxi taxi?
Yes. Baby seats and booster seats are available on request. Tell us the ages of the children when you book, so we can set them up before pickup.
Book Your Maxi Taxi Today
In short, a maxi taxi is usually the smart way to move a group in Melbourne. You get one vehicle, one driver, one fixed fare and plenty of room for luggage. Meanwhile, two cabs still make sense when your group is splitting up.
Ready to travel together? Book your maxi taxi online or call 0456 664 471. Have a question first? Contact us and we will help you plan your trip.
