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How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

If you’re traveling to Chicago for business or a well-needed vacation, timing is everything. You may be wondering, “How early should I get to the airport to ensure smooth travels?” Between check-ins and security and baggage, you’ll want to plan a few hours of cushion between the time of your arrival and the time of the plane’s departure. Generally speaking, that translates to around 2 hours for domestic trips and 3 hours for international trips.


Getting to the Airport: Traveling Timeline

Why is timing so important when it comes to travel? Because you’ll need to go through a sequence of steps before you set foot on the plane. Everything from parking to bag checks to security takes time, and rushing the process can lead to more headaches.

  • Arrival: The answer to the question, “What time should I get to the airport,” is fairly straightforward. You need to walk through the airport doors no later than 2 hours before the departure time for flights within the United States and 3 hours for flights outside the United States.
  • Check-In: Most airlines require you to check-in 30 minutes before the departure time, but some require even more time. Be sure to check your airline’s regulations before the big day! To be on the safe side, you can always check-in online the day before your flight.
  • Gate: Be at the gate at least 15 minutes before your departure time to get your place in line and board the plane in time.
Crowd at airport

Getting to the Airport: Tips and Tricks

Even if you know how early you should arrive at the airport, you also know that life rarely adheres to a neat and tidy schedule. So, what can you do to improve your chances of a successful travel day? Consider hiring a professional chauffeur through Signature Transportation Group! You’ll enjoy the following benefits:

  • Hiring a professional chauffeured service is a convenient, cost-effective, and stress-free way to manage your travels. Our chauffeurs know the ins and outs of dealing with Chicago’s traffic, so they can get you to your destination as efficiently as possible.
  • No need to worry about the hassles of parking. Just step out of your vehicle and head straight to check-in.
  • On-call dispatchers will ensure that the process goes smoothly, and transparent pricing means you’ll get affordable rates without hidden fees. You can even choose from our fleet of sedans, SUVs, executive buses, and more!

Arrive on Time With Signature Transportation Group!

When you ride to the airport with a personal chauffeur, you’ll skip the hassles of taking public transportation, a cab, or driving yourself. We’ll get you to your destination safely and in a timely manner, whether you’re heading to Midway or O’Hare. Want to schedule a ride with Signature Transportation Group for your next trip? Contact us with any questions or book now!