I’ve learned that arriving at the airport well in advance is key to avoiding unnecessary stress. Some people don’t think the extra time is necessary, but with security checks, immigration procedures, and any unexpected delays, the question I ask myself is, “How will I feel if I miss my flight because I stayed an extra 30 minutes at my hotel or home?”
One of the questions I am asked most often is what time I should arrive at the airport. I plan my travels carefully because I don’t want to miss my flight. Factors like airport size, traffic conditions, and accessibility concerns play a significant role in ensuring a smooth journey. Hopefully, some of my insights will help you find the optimal arrival times for domestic and international flights for your travel group.
When to arrive at the airport for domestic flights
When it comes to domestic travel, I’ve learned that arriving at the airport well in advance is key to avoiding unnecessary stress. Decades ago, my parents had everything go wrong on their way to the airport and my mom literally stood on the jetway bridge trying to keep them from closing the airplane door so my dad wouldn’t miss the flight. That wouldn’t work today, but many challenges can happen on the way to the plane.
Here’s what I do to prepare for a domestic flight:
- Arrival at the airport: I follow the airline’s recommendation to arrive at least two hours before my scheduled domestic flight departure time. This gives me ample time for check-in, security screening, and finding my gate. I once had three Uber drivers cancel on me due to traffic, and ended up driving to the airport at the last moment. I was able to check my luggage but I had only eleven minutes to spare. Different airlines and airports have different luggage cut-off times, but normally it is 45 to 60 minutes before flight departure.
- Provisions: I travel with homemade snacks as I generally prefer those to what I can buy at the airport. If you like to buy something to eat on the plane or wait in line for coffee, plan for more time in the terminal.
When to arrive at the airport for international flights
Here’s how I prepare for an international flight:
- Arrival at the airport: For international flights, I aim to arrive at least three hours before departure as recommended by the airlines. However, when I was taking flights out of Turks and Caicos, as well as Vanuatu in the South Pacific, I was told in both locations it was not possible to arrive three hours early because the airport wouldn’t be open yet. I know that some people don’t think the extra time is necessary, but with security checks, immigration procedures, and any unexpected delays, the question I ask myself is, “How will I feel if I miss my flight because I stayed an extra 30 minutes at my hotel or home?”
- Review requirements: I make sure to have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa if required, and any other permits. Remember that “some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines won’t allow you to board if this requirement isn’t met.” I know of several situations where the traveler wasn’t allowed to board because of the 6-month rule. Also, check your child’s passport (age 0-15) which is valid for 5 years and not 10 like an adult’s.
What influences how early you need to arrive at the airport?
Whether you’re traveling solo or in a group
When I travel solo, I might leave later for my flight. When I travel with my family and we need to get a wheelchair, we need more time. If you’re traveling with small children and many bags or car seats, there is more to keep track of.
The time of day you’re flying
During school holidays or peak times of the day – such as early mornings or evenings – expect larger crowds and longer wait times. There will be longer lines everywhere, from parking to security to the bathroom.
The airport you’re flying out of
Arriving at a large international airport like Los Angeles International (LAX) requires more time than my nearby much smaller regional airport, Hollywood-Burbank Airport (BUR). What time you arrive at the airport really depends on who is in your group, what your needs at the airport are, or what you stand to lose if you miss your flight. The walk to the gate at Burbank is short and the drop-off is easy, which isn’t true at a larger airport like LAX.
Whether you want to access a lounge before boarding
For a fee, airport lounges can provide a sanctuary of comfort and amenities amidst the hustle and bustle of the terminal. Gaining entry to these exclusive spaces typically requires membership in a lounge program, such as Priority Pass, or holding elite status with an airline or credit card. Additionally, some lounges offer day passes for purchase. Inside, indulge in complimentary refreshments, relax in comfortable seating areas, access high-speed Wi-Fi, and even take a shower.
Whether you have TSA PreCheck
The lines for security can be very, very long. It’s important to factor in extra time for security screening, as it can vary depending on the airport’s size and traffic. I now have Global Entry, which gives me TSA PreCheck as well as CLEAR and now the new Delta Digital ID. Because I travel so often, I want to make my experience as easy and seamless as possible. Arriving early gives me time for any issues at security checkpoints without feeling rushed. Make sure you check what the TSA security protocols are, especially if you are carrying medicines, baby foods, or other special items. My dad had both hips replaced and he needs to go through the alternate Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) instead of the standard walk-through metal detector. For your safety, please inform the TSA officer if you have any metal implant, pacemaker or other internal medical device. Make sure to be aware that as of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights.
Tips on getting through airports quickly
- Plan for traffic: Even in smaller cities, general traffic as well as airport traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak travel times or bad weather. I keep an eye on traffic updates and plan my route accordingly to avoid delays. If you aren’t in your hometown, ask a local for help from the concierge at your hotel or a friend who lives there. My friend checked the time to the airport on Google Maps at midnight and it said it would take 20 minutes to get from her hotel to LAX airport. However, she needed to be at the airport by 6pm. I told her to check again but adjust the settings on Google Maps for arrival at the airport at 6pm and then it said it would take an hour and a half. Remember to check the time settings so that you get the correct information. If you have to return a car, remember to plan extra time to get gas and find the car rental return location, check the car back in and then take the shuttle to the airport check-in.
- Online check-in: Taking advantage of online check-in options offered by most airlines has been a game-changer for me. Download the app for your carrier and add or pay for your bags in advance. I have credit cards for several airlines so I can accumulate miles as well as receive free flights and complimentary bag checks. Nearly every carrier has a self-check-in kiosk that will print your boarding pass and baggage tags – you’ll then wait in a short line for your ID to be screened and they take your bag. I have been at a few airports where you actually self-screen your ID and the machine takes your luggage without any human assistance.
- Accessibility services: If you’re like my mom and need wheelchair assistance in the airport, you can ask for it in your airline booking. I recommend arranging for it in advance, but you can always ask to add this service when you arrive. However, there could be longer wait times for last-minute requests for disability assistance. If you need help to get to your gate, make sure to ask.
In conclusion, whether I’m embarking on a domestic adventure or jetting off to foreign lands, arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare is crucial for a stress-free travel experience. By following recommended arrival times and considering factors such as airport size, traffic conditions, and accessibility needs, I can enhance the efficiency and comfort of my journey. With proper planning and foresight, I’m always ready to embark on my next adventure with confidence. Safe travels!
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