ABIA advises on smooth(er) holiday travel

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is expected to break its record for the most travelers in one year, with about 1 million more in 2023 compared to 2022. The holiday travel season is always crunch time regardless, so the airport has sent an advisory to make this year’s holiday go a little more smoothly. Basically, plan ahead, arrive early and follow these airport travel tips.

• Those using general TSA screening are advised to arrive at least 2.5 hours before departure for domestic flights and at least 3 hours before departure for international flights.
• Those with TSA Pre-Check or Clear and not checking bags are advised to follow TSA’s general rule of arriving 2 hours before departure.
• The airport’s parking system website, ABIAParking.com, makes it possible to save a spot in advance. Reservations can be booked up to 24 hours before a traveler’s arrival time at the airport. Spots tend to fill up fast during holiday periods, so it’s highly advised to check real-time parking availability with ABIA Parking before coming to the airport.
• A tip for those being dropped off: If you see a long line of cars heading to “Departures” as you approach the airport, veer left and go to “Arrivals” for a quicker drop-off. Once dropped off, head upstairs to go to your airline ticket counter and security screening.
• For more advice from the Fly AUS Blog about traveling with gifts, following TSA rules and packing food, click here.