Preparing For an International Flight; How Soon Should You Arrive!?
Preparing For an International Flight; How Soon Should You Arrive!?
International flights can be both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. Dealing with the traffic in and around Raleigh, NC, can be overwhelming, not to mention maneuvering the airport. However, you’re ready to explore the world, and an airport shuttle can make it easier for you.
Whether for work or pleasure, there are many things that you must consider before you board the plane. One of the first questions that many passengers ponder is how soon they should arrive at the airport. After all, you don’t want to miss your flight, as you can’t get your money back unless you have travel insurance.
Having Sufficient Time to Prepare for Your Journey
Normally, it’s best to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight. If you’re heading overseas, then you might want to give yourself three hours. The key is don’t arrive at the last minute as it takes some time to get through security and get your bags checked.
If you use an airport shuttle, you can give us a call, and we can tell you about the current situation at the airport. We like to keep our customers informed, and some days at the airport are certainly busier than others. It can reduce your pre-boarding time if you only have carry-ons and don’t need to check any bags.
Another consideration is the airport will be less busy if you’re flying in off-peak hours. So, you can sail through the check-in process. Even if you’re packing light and flying red eye, it’s still recommended that you get there at least two hours in advance. You never know what might happen.
During the holidays, the airports are jam-packed, and it can take you hours just to get checked in. It’s best to give yourself ample time when you know things are going to be chaotic so that you can ensure you’re there when they board the plane.
Things That Can Impact Your Boarding Process During an International Flight
There are always things that can go wrong when you’re flying. Though things are streamlined, some issues come up that need to be handled before you can get on the plane. Flights start boarding about 20 minutes before takeoff, so once the door to the aircraft is closed, you’re out of luck. Here are the most common things that can impact your time before boarding.
1. Pre-Check System Errors
Some folks use pre-check systems to expedite their process. Sadly, there are many times at the airports near Raleigh, NC, when this process doesn’t work. Sure, you’ve paid for the expedited screening, but there’s an error that’s holding up the process. The biggest issue is that most of these arrangements are made through travel agents, and they can make an error by imputing the wrong numbers.
This process usually works well, but if you’re one of the unlucky ones that get pulled due to an issue, it may take some time to get this fixed. It’s common to have a typo in a birthdate or government ID number. Again, getting things like an airport shuttle can help you to get to the airport quicker, but we can’t ensure that it will all be smooth sailing on the inside.
2. Long Baggage Lines
If you’ve brought baggage to the airport, you know you need to check these bags. If the bags need to be weighed, you must wait your turn at the counter. Checking baggage can be a nightmare during peak times, but it can also be a significant task when you’re claiming your luggage. Since the airports in this region are super busy, you need extra time to get checked.
3. Security Checks
Security measures are stringent for your safety, but this can certainly take some time to go through the scanners. There are always lines for people waiting their turn, so be prepared for this part of the process. If you’re one of the unlucky ones that gets pulled for a search, this can impact how much time you have to make it to the gate. You can be detained for further examination for the smallest of things, so make sure you follow the protocols and have very little metal on you.
Why an Airport Shuttle Makes Sense?
If you’re a frequent flyer, then you know how crazy it can be the hours or moments before you board your flight. An airport shuttle can get you safely from your hotel or home to the airport. You don’t have to worry about parking and fighting the massive traffic jams on the 440 belt or any other major thoroughfares.
If you’re new to flying, it can be beneficial to have a knowledgeable person giving you inside tips and recommendations to make your flying experience pleasant. If you need a ride to or from the airport, don’t hesitate to call My RDU Airport Shuttle for assistance or for more information about preparing for an international flight.
