How To Decide How Early to Get to the Airport

There are myths and legends surrounding the perfect time to arrive at the airport for a flight, but most of these are easily arguable depending on who you talk to, where you’re flying to and your own personal preferences. Here are a few factors to consider when making the all-important decision.

International vs. Domestic

If you’re flying to a destination out of the country, you’ll have to take a few extra steps when you arrive at the airport, including a possible passport and customs check. Plus, the international terminal may require a shuttle or monorail to access. For these reasons, allow some extra time for potentially long lines.

Checking Bags vs. Carrying On

Checking a bag clearly takes longer due to the mandatory visit to the check-in counter. While some airlines have begun to allow customers to check-in for their flight via a kiosk and simply drop their luggage at a bag-drop counter, travelers should factor in extra time in case there’s a line to use the self check-in service or user error leaves you confused at the kisok.

High Season vs. Low Season

During the summer and around holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and Memorial Day, airports experience an influx of travelers, so padding your arrival time with an extra 30 minutes or even an hour is wise during these times of the year.

Days of the Week and Times of the Day

Most people fly when it’s convenient for them, which is usually Friday evenings after work and Sunday afternoons, or at reasonable times in the morning and evening. Booking early-morning flights or after-dinner flights can help you avoid the crowds, but if you’re flying with the masses, expect longer lines at check-in, security, boarding and eslewhere.