u/Mango-Lover30

My wife and I (two seniors) will be visiting the Italy Amalfi coast starting November 2 2026 We plan on leaving the area on November 6^(th) for Bari.  Need to there by 6:00pm.

We will have 2 large suitcases plus 2 carry-ons (4 bags total).

We noticed there are no direct flights, and given the volume of luggage we are carrying, navigating train transfers (or stairs at older stations) feels like a hassle we’d prefer to avoid.

We are trying to evaluate our best options for a smooth, low-stress transfer.

1. Private Van Transfer: Has anyone hired a private driver/van for this route (~3-hour drive)? Any reliable driver services or estimated costs we should expect for 2 passengers + 4 bags?
2. Long-Distance Coach/Bus: How manageable are buses like FlixBus, Itabus, or MarinoBus for older travelers with heavy luggage? (e.g., luggage storage under the bus, terminal access in Naples/Bari, seating comfort)
3. Car Rental: Is driving across the Apennines straightforward, or is hiring a driver significantly less stressful?
4. Ship Luggage: How easy and affordable is it to ship our large bags to the hotel in Bari. This option should allow us to take the train.

We'd love to hear recommendations or experiences from anyone who has done this trip with luggage! Thanks in advance!

My party of four (two senior couples) will be visiting the Italy Amalfi coast starting November 2 2026 We plan on leaving the area on November 6^(th) for Bari.  Need to there by 6:00pm

Each person will have a large checked suitcase plus a carry-on (8 bags total).

We noticed there are no direct flights, and given the volume of luggage we are carrying, navigating train transfers (or stairs at older stations) feels like a hassle we’d prefer to avoid.

We are trying to evaluate our best options for a smooth, low-stress transfer.

1. Private Van Transfer: Has anyone hired a private driver/van for this route (~3-hour drive)? Any reliable driver services or estimated costs we should expect for 4 passengers + 8 bags?
2. Long-Distance Coach/Bus: How manageable are buses like FlixBus, Itabus, or MarinoBus for older travelers with heavy luggage? (e.g., luggage storage under the bus, terminal access in Naples/Bari, seating comfort)
3. Car Rental: Is driving across the Apennines straightforward, or is hiring a driver significantly less stressful?

We'd love to hear recommendations or experiences from anyone who has done this trip with luggage! Thanks in advance!