Air travel is always a matter of slightly more detailed and complicated organization and logistics. How many things do you need, do you have large luggage, whether to come by private transport, where to park and how much time before the start of the flight to get to the airport. In any case, we will answer all these and some other questions in the text that follows and explain to you why it is better to hire a personal driver when going to the airport alone or in a group, and what benefits does it bring?
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ToggleHow early should you arrive at the airport?
International flights
For international travel, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two and a half to three hours before departure (150-180 minutes), especially if you are flying on some longer routes. This allows you enough time to get through all the checks, possible check-ins and some unforeseen situations, especially if there is a big crowd at the gates.
Domestic flights
For domestic flights, it is enough to arrive at the airport two hours (120 minutes) before the scheduled flight. This time is usually sufficient for check-in, handing over luggage and going through security checks. Of course, all the times for arriving at the airport that we give you are approximate and we write based on the previous experience that we have gathered.
Connecting flights
When you leave from the first destination, i.e. the first airport, it is also important to leave yourself enough airtime as with international flights (about 180 minutes). The only thing that is important is that you check-in and check-in as early as possible before continuing your journey in order to be as calm as possible. If you have more than six or seven hours between connections, then we recommend that you check-in at least two hours before the second flight to your final destination.
Why is it important to get to the airport early?
Security checks
Security checks can be time-consuming, especially during high season periods or flights to popular destinations, where the occupancy of the aircraft capacity of the major airlines is always high. Arriving earlier allows you to go through all the checks in a timely manner, but also to leave yourself up to an hour of extra space in case the pre-boarding checks are slower and more detailed.
The problem with potential crowds
Airports are often very busy and sometimes very busy with passengers from all over the world, especially in the morning and evening hours. Arriving on time reduces the risk of delays due to large crowds.
Baggage check-in and check-in process
The check-in and baggage drop-off process can take a long time, especially with larger airlines. Of course, you can do the check-in itself, i.e. the application online, and thus save a good amount of time at the airport itself and immediately go to the control.
The possibility of unforeseen situations
Unforeseen situations such as traffic jams, problems with luggage or changing flight times can happen at any time. The extra time allows you to adjust to these situations without stress. As we said, at the airport it is always advisable to calculate an extra hour, that is, to leave yourself a little more space with time. If you go through everything relatively quickly, you can always wait for the plane in peace with a drink or coffee, visit the duty-free zone, or read a newspaper/book.
Additional tips for getting to the airport on time
Transportation with a private driver
Hiring a private chauffeur service company like PDS Limo Service can get you to the airport on time and stress-free. Our drivers are professional and know the best routes to avoid crowds and ensure timely arrival.
Arrangement of things in the suitcase and hand luggage
Properly arranging your luggage and carry-on luggage can save you time during security checks. Keep important documents and liquids in easy-to-reach places before boarding the plane.
Online flight check-in
Online flight check-in allows you to avoid long queues at the airport. Check-in online before your trip and download your boarding pass. We mentioned this earlier in the text, but it is important to emphasize it once again, because it will shorten the entire procedure (control, luggage, going to the gate) by at least half an hour, and very likely more.
Why is it better to arrive at the airport in a private vehicle with a driver?
Timely and comfortable arrival
Private chauffeured transportation ensures you arrive at the airport comfortably and stress-free. Our drivers monitor the traffic situation and adjust to make sure you arrive on time.
Transfer directly in front of the entrance
As part of the service, a private driver will bring you directly to the entrance of the terminal, which is especially useful when you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with children.
Transportation from the airport in case of flight cancellation
In the event that your flight is canceled or delayed, a private driver can quickly and comfortably return you home or to your hotel. Our drivers will wait for some time not far from the airport, to make sure that the clients have already entered the procedure for boarding the plane. In case of cancellation, we are available to pick you up and take you to the desired location.
No worries about parking
When you use private transportation services, there is no need to worry about parking. A private driver takes you in our limousine to the airport entrance, and you don’t have to think about where you will leave your car and how much you will pay for parking until you get back.
Help with luggage
Carry your luggage without worry, ensuring that everything is safely and properly placed in the vehicle. Also, when you arrive at the airport, we help you with suitcases and bags, so that you can more easily go to the flight gate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How early should I be at the airport for international flights?
It is recommended that you arrive at least two and a half to three hours before departure.
Do domestic flights take the same time?
For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive about two hours before departure.
What are the advantages of using online application?
Online check-in allows you to avoid long lines at the airport and go through security checks faster before your trip. In this way, you will immediately receive a boarding pass in electronic form, so you will not have to go to the counter to have one of the employees issue it to you in paper form.
What should I do if I'm late to the airport?
If you are delayed, contact the airline and inform them of the situation. They can provide additional information and assistance.
How much time should be budgeted for security checks?
Allow at least 30-60 minutes for security checks, depending on the crowd and size of the airport.
Are private transport services better than public transport?
Private transport offers greater comfort, flexibility and reliability, especially if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or children.
What are the rules for hand luggage and liquids?
Check your airline’s policies before you travel. In general, liquids must be in 100ml bottles, and the total volume must not exceed 1 liter.