How early should I arrive at the airport for an international flight?

The general recommendations are:

• International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure

• US domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure

• European short-haul: Arrive 2 hours before departure

• Budget airlines (Ryanair, easyJet, Spirit): Arrive 2–2.5 hours — they close check-in 40 minutes before departure and are strict

Arrive earlier if:

• It's a busy travel period (summer, Christmas, Easter)

• You are checking bags

• You need to clear customs or immigration

• You are travelling with young children or have mobility requirements

• Your airport is known for long security queues

• You need to check in at the desk (not online check-in)

Check-in close times vary by airline — most close 45–60 minutes before departure for international and 30–45 minutes for domestic. Ryanair and easyJet close 40 minutes before and will not make exceptions.