How early to get to the airport Is the most frequently asked question. The answer to this depends on different factors. It also depends on the traveler. There are two types of travelers, one who likes to reach the airport early in the morning for a 2 PM flight, while others have to run to make their journey from security to the door just before the jet bridge door closes. Most airlines suggest arriving at least 2 hours before the domestic flight at the airport and at least 3 hours before the international flight.
Let’s dive in to the article below to explore the top factors you should consider when deciding how early to reach the airport.
From Which Airport Are You Travelling?
A simple yet important factor is that if you are traveling out of a large international airport, you need to arrive earlier as these airports are often busy and crowded compared to regional airports.
Are You Travelling on a National or International Flight?
Traveling out on an international flight might require some additional pre-checking, like passport verification, confirmation number checking, etc., that needs to be done before you receive your boarding pass. You have to be at the airport earlier as international flights start the boarding process 15 to 30 minutes earlier because of a large plane compared to national or domestic flights.
In what Season Are You Travelling?
Take into consideration the time of year in which you are traveling. During winter, the flight wait is short compared to the summer, in which the demand for travel takes up considerably.
At What Time of the Day Are You Travelling?
You can see that the airports are less crowded during the early morning or late night and often busier during the midday. People often consider traveling during midday, which is why the earliest and the latest flights of the day are of the cheapest prices.
Are You Travelling Alone or with a Group?
If you are going alone to travel, then it is much easier to move through the airport faster than if you are with family or children. Try reaching the airport earlier, especially if traveling in groups.
Do You Have Any Luggage?
If you have bags for checking, reach the airport earlier as some airports don’t provide self-check kiosk facilities, and you have to wait long in a queue with other passengers waiting as well. If you don’t want to check your bags and want to save time, make sure the luggage is within the size allowed.
Do You Have TSA PreCheck or Clear?
TSA PreCheck or Clear is the time saver for you at the airport. Having any of these two allows you to skip the lengthy security lines at the airport. TSA PreCheck provides fast security screening. With it, you do not need to remove your shoes, belt, etc., while going through airport security, and you can also take your laptop and TSA-approved liquids in your carry-on.
Many credit cards offer a TSA PreCheck membership as a card benefit. Still, right now, the only credit cards that offer a full complimentary CLEAR membership are The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, the Centurion® Card from American Express, and the American Express® Green Card.
Final Thoughts
From the above discussion, it is concluded that it’s better to arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before the flight to the airport. This article sums up the top factors you should consider while deciding how early you should get to the airport.