Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or a once-a-year vacationer, the question never goes away: how early should I get to the airport? It might seem like a simple thing, but the answer depends on several key factors—what kind of flight you’re taking, which airport you’re departing from, and even how you plan to park.
From wondering what time should I get to the airport to figuring out the best Hartsfield-Jackson airport parking options, this guide will help you arrive calm, confident, and on time.
Domestic Flights: The 2-Hour Rule
For domestic travel, the general rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. That gives you enough time to check in, drop off bags, get through security, and handle anything unexpected.
Here’s what that process might look like:
- Check-in & baggage drop: 15–30 minutes
- Security screening: 15–45 minutes (more during peak hours)
- Walking to your gate: 10–20 minutes
If you’re traveling with only a carry-on and you check in online ahead of time, you might be able to push your arrival to about 90 minutes before departure, but only if you know the airport layout and you’re not traveling during a busy period.
International Flights: Give Yourself at Least 3 Hours
For international flights, plan to arrive at least 3 hours in advance. Customs forms, passport control, and longer security lines can all add time to your check-in process. Some international flights even close check-in counters 60 minutes before departure, so cutting it close can mean missing your flight entirely.
When asking how early to get to the airport for international travel, more time is always better than not enough—especially if you’re traveling during the holidays or summer.
Flying From a Major Airport Like ATL? Add Buffer Time
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the U.S. and one of the busiest in the world. So if you’re flying out of Atlanta, it’s wise to tack on an extra 30–60 minutes to your usual arrival time.
Here’s why:
- Massive size: ATL has two terminals and multiple concourses, all connected by a train. It can take 15–30 minutes just to get from the security line to your gate.
- Crowds: Even on weekdays, ATL handles more than 275,000 passengers a day.
- Security wait times: They can spike without warning. Even with TSA PreCheck, the line can stretch for 30+ minutes.
If you’re asking what time should I get to the airport for a domestic flight at ATL, aim for 2.5–3 hours early. For international flights, 3.5–4 hours is the safer bet.
Peak Travel Days? Plan Even Earlier
If you’re flying during a holiday, on a Friday or Sunday, or during early morning hours (5 AM–9 AM), you’ll want to pad your time even more.
Consider arriving:
- 3 hours early for domestic flights
- 4 hours early for international flights
It may feel like overkill, but no one ever regretted having extra time to grab a snack or use the restroom before boarding. It’s the alternative—running through the terminal or missing your flight—that travelers remember.
How Parking Impacts Your Timing
One of the biggest time sucks on travel day? Airport parking. If you’re driving yourself, you’ll need to:
- Find a parking spot (which may mean circling the garage for 15+ minutes)
- Haul your luggage across the lot or wait for an airport shuttle
- Walk or ride a tram to the terminal
If you’re parking in economy or remote lots, add at least 30 minutes to your arrival schedule.
This is why more travelers are turning to offsite airport parking for a faster, smoother experience.
Simplify Your Day with Offsite Parking at ATL
At United Airport Parking, we make airport parking easy, affordable, and efficient—especially for travelers flying out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
When you book with us, you’ll:
- Reserve your parking spot in advance
- Skip the hassle of full garages or last-minute searching
- Park in a secure lot with free shuttle service to your terminal
- Save money with rates much lower than ATL’s official lots
Instead of wasting time circling the airport or stressing about long walks with luggage, you’ll breeze through the parking process and get to your gate with time to spare.
Quick Recap: How Early to Get to the Airport
| Flight Type | Recommended Arrival Time |
|---|---|
| Domestic (low traffic) | 1.5–2 hours before departure |
| Domestic (busy airport) | 2.5–3 hours |
| International | 3–4 hours |
| Holidays/peak times | Add 30–60 mins |
And remember—plan even earlier if you’re parking onsite.
Final Thoughts: Know When to Go & Where to Park
Asking how early should I get to the airport is smart—it shows you’re a traveler who wants to be prepared. By giving yourself enough time and choosing smarter parking options, you can skip the stress and start your trip feeling relaxed and ready.
Want to save time and money on Hartsfield-Jackson airport parking?
📍 Book your offsite spot today with United Airport Parking and enjoy secure, affordable parking with a complimentary shuttle to your terminal.
➡️ Reserve Your Parking Now – it’s the easiest decision you’ll make all trip.