How early should I get to the airport?

How early should you get to the airport?

• Arrive at the airport two hours earlier for domestic flights
• Aim to arrive at the airport three hours before international flights
• Get through security easily by wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off, organizing your carry-on so that your laptop and your quart-sized bag of liquids are easily accessible

One of the questions that’s asked most often is, “What time should I arrive at the airport?” Factors like airport size, traffic conditions, and accessibility concerns play a significant role in ensuring a smooth journey. Hopefully, some of our insights will help you find the optimal arrival times for domestic and international flights for your travel group.

How early should you get to the airport?

When it comes to domestic travel, arriving at the airport well in advance is key to avoiding unnecessary stress. Here’s what how to prepare for a domestic flight:

When to arrive at the airport for domestic flights

Follow the airline's recommendation to arrive at least two hours before my scheduled domestic flight departure time. This gives you ample time for check-in, security screening, and finding your gate. Different airlines and airports have different luggage cut-off times, but normally it is 45–60 minutes before flight departure.

Domestic flight travel tips: Travel with snacks from home – buying snacks at the airport can cost double and take time. If you’d 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

For international flights, aim to arrive at least three hours before departure as recommended by the airlines. The extra time is necessary, especially with security checks, immigration procedures, and any unexpected delays.

Have all the document you need

Make sure to have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa if required, and any other permits. 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. Also, check your child's passport (age 0-15) which is valid for 5 years and not 10 like an adult’s.

Check what the TSA security protocols

Check TSA security protocols if you are carrying medicines, baby foods, or other special items. 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, US travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights.

What influences how early you need to arrive at the airport?

Whether you’re traveling solo or in a group

When you travel solo, you might leave later for your flight. If you're traveling with your family and need a wheelchair, you'll 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 arriving at a much smaller regional airport. 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 a smaller airport is usually 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. If you have Global Entry, you gain access to TSA PreCheck and often other services like CLEAR. Arriving early gives you time for any issues at security checkpoints without feeling rushed.

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. You should keep an eye on traffic updates and plan your route accordingly to avoid delays. 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 can be a game-changer for you. Download the app for your carrier and add or pay for your bags in advance. If you have credit cards for several airlines, you can accumulate miles as well as receive complimentary bag checks.

Accessibility services

If you or a travel companion needs wheelchair assistance in the airport, you can ask for it in your airline booking. It's recommended to arrange 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.

Travel with hand luggage only

If you are able to pack all your belongings into carry-on bags, you can bypass the baggage check counter entirely. This is one of the biggest time-savers, allowing you to head straight to security, potentially saving you 30 minutes to an hour of waiting in line. Make sure your carry-on liquids and gels strictly adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule

Streamline your security process

Efficiency is key at the security checkpoint. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Before you get in line, organize your carry-on so that your laptop and your quart-sized bag of liquids are easily accessible at the top, allowing you to pull them out quickly when instructed. You should also check if your airport has a dedicated mobile app that offers real-time updates on security wait times and gate changes to help you plan in advance.

Whether you're 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, you can enhance the efficiency and comfort of your journey. With proper planning and foresight, you'll always be ready to embark on your next adventure with confidence. Safe travels!