The easiest approach to prevent missing a flight is to arrive at the airport early enough to check in, go through security, and find your gate. But how early is enough?
I’ve flown all over the world, and by preparing ahead and adhering to certain broad standards, I’ve never missed a trip.
The basic rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. If you follow that rule, you can almost always be certain that you’ll arrive at your gate on time.
However, depending on your position, as well as the time and location of your trip, it might be beneficial to give yourself a little additional flexibility. On the other hand, for certain flights, arriving two hours early simply means sitting at the airport for an hour and a half.
So, how early should you arrive to the airport? As with most things, the answer is, “it depends.”
How Early to Get to the Airport for Domestic Flights
Getting to the airport early is usually a good idea! It relieves unneeded tension and ensures that your travel experience runs well. For domestic flights, the typical practice is to arrive at least 2 hours before the planned departure time.
This gives you plenty of time to finish the check-in procedure, get through security, and make your way to the gate without feeling rushed. However, it is crucial to note that a few circumstances may determine whether you need to come sooner than the typical 2-hour threshold.
How Early to Get to the Airport for International Flights
For international flights, most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours before your planned departure time. This extra time provides for any delays at the check-in process, security screening, and immigration processes. Furthermore, overseas flights sometimes have tougher luggage rules and paperwork inspections, which might take longer to complete than domestic flights.
Arriving early for an international trip also provides you some extra time in case there are any unforeseen complications, such as long security lines or traffic delays on the approach to the airport. It is preferable to have additional time to relax at the airport lounge or get a snack than to be harried and worried while attempting to make it to your gate on time.
Other Factors to Consider
Arriving 2-3 hours before departure is a reasonable rule of thumb, although it is not a strict requirement. The length of time it takes to pass through the airport depends on a variety of things.
Depending on where you’re coming from, when you’re going, and if you’re registered in an accelerated security program, you can have more or less leeway.
Boarding Time vs Departure Time
The time mentioned on your travel tickets is nearly often the departure time: when the plane takes off. When determining how early to arrive at the airport, the most crucial factor to consider is boarding time.
Most planes board passengers 30-50 minutes before their planned departure time, however this varies per flight. Your boarding permit will normally specify the boarding time, which is when you should aim to arrive at your gate.
It’s also worth noting that the gate normally closes 15 minutes before departure. If you’re rushing through the airport to get to your gate by the departure time, you’re generally too late.
How Much Luggage Do You Have?
Checking bags adds another step to your pre-flight routine. When you get at the airport, identify the appropriate baggage drop-off place, wait in line, and ensure that your luggage is tagged and checked in. This process can take some time and may require waiting in line, particularly during high travel seasons.
However, if you are simply going with carry-on luggage, the check-in process will be significantly faster. You may save time by checking in online before your trip, eliminating the need to drop off your luggage. In this case, arriving 1-2 hours before your domestic trip should enough, depending on your particular preferences and the airport from where you are traveling.
Do You Have TSA PreCheck?
If you have TSA PreCheck, Clear, or similar trusted traveler status, you are in luck! These bonuses can significantly reduce your time at the airport. These certifications allow you to circumvent the regular security queues, allowing you to arrive at the airport later without fear of missing your flight.
Do You Have Priority Check-In?
Most airlines have a priority check-in service that allows you to skip luggage queues, utilize priority boarding lanes, and occasionally even go through special accelerated security lines at airports. All of these can help you go through the airport more quickly.
Many airlines provide priority check-in for business and first-class tickets. If you have an airline membership, you may be eligible for priority boarding.
If you have priority status, you do not need to be as early at the airport.
Are You Flying During a Busy Time?
Airports get much busier on weekends, holidays, and school vacations. During peak travel periods, everything from parking to collecting your boarding pass may take longer.
Even the time of day you fly can influence your airport experience; for example, airports are often busiest in the morning due to a large number of business travel.
If you’re traveling at one of these crowded periods, I recommend arriving a little early to allow yourself more time to get to your gate.
What Airport Are You Flying From?
The airport from which you are flying might have a significant influence on your arrival time. Major international airports, such as JFK or LAX, which handle both domestic and foreign flights, may have heavier crowds and lengthier security lineups.
Smaller regional airports, on the other hand, handle passengers more swiftly due to lower traffic volumes.
Plan Parking in Advance
Finally, if you’re driving to the airport, make sure to organize your parking ahead of time. You don’t want to arrive at the airport and then worry because the parking lots are filled. Most airports allow you to arrange long-term parking in advance.
Better still, you can use an app like Way to arrange parking at neighboring hotels and then take their shuttle to the station. It is generally significantly less expensive than utilizing the airport parking lots.
Alternatively, try using public transportation or ridesharing services to avoid parking difficulties entirely, especially during peak traffic hours when parking places are rare.