General Rule: Arrive 2-3 Hours Early

As a general guideline, for domestic flights, you should aim to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight’s departure. For international flights, plan to arrive 3 hours early. This time window accounts for:

• Finding parking or waiting for a shuttle
• Airport check-in and baggage drop
• Security screenings, which can be time-consuming depending on the time of day

While arriving 2-3 hours before your flight is a good rule of thumb, there are several other factors to consider that can affect how much time you’ll need.

Off-Site Parking at SD Park Shuttle & Fly

If you’re parking off-site at SD Park Shuttle & Fly, you’ll need to factor in additional time for parking and catching a shuttle to the terminal. SD Park Shuttle & Fly offers free shuttle service 24/7, but during peak travel times, you should allow for 15-30 minutes to park, wait for the shuttle, and travel to the airport.

• Shuttle Frequency: While shuttles run regularly, a little extra buffer ensures you won’t feel rushed.
• Parking Lot Access: The lot is available 24/7, so even if you have a late-night or early-morning flight, you can park and catch a shuttle without hassle.

Arriving at the Airport: What to Consider

When deciding how early to arrive at San Diego Airport, it’s helpful to consider several factors, including shuttle service wait times, peak travel hours, and the size of the airport.

1. Shuttle Wait Time

If you choose to park off-site, like at SD Park Shuttle & Fly, give yourself about 10-15 minutes for shuttle transportation. Even though shuttles run frequently, during high-traffic times (like early mornings or holidays), there might be a short wait.

2. Peak Hours at San Diego Airport

San Diego International Airport can get particularly busy during peak hours, which typically occur between 6 AM and 9 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM. During these times, security lines are often longer, and parking can take more time. If you’re flying during peak hours, plan on arriving at least 30 minutes earlier than you normally would.

3. Airport Check-In and Security

• Check-in: Airlines recommend checking in at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international flight. If you’re checking bags, this will require additional time.
• TSA Security: Security lines can vary in length based on the time of day. It’s always smart to factor in at least 20-30 minutes for TSA security, especially if you’re traveling during a busy period. To speed up the process, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck for expedited screening.

How Early Should You Arrive for Long-Term Parking?

If you’re using long-term parking at SD Park Shuttle & Fly, arriving early is especially important. Long-term parking lots can be larger, which means it may take more time to park, locate a shuttle, and make your way to the terminal.

For long-term parking, here’s a breakdown:

• Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2.5 hours before your flight. This gives you enough time to find parking, wait for the shuttle, and check in at the airport.
• International Flights: Arrive at least 3.5 hours early to account for the extra time needed for customs and international check-in procedures.

SD Park Shuttle & Fly: The Convenient Option for Early Arrivals

Choosing SD Park Shuttle & Fly as your parking provider comes with a range of benefits that make arriving early an easier process:

• Free Shuttle Service 24/7: The complimentary shuttle service ensures you can park and ride to the terminal without any hassle, no matter the time of day or night.
• 24-Hour Lot Access: The flexibility of 24-hour lot access means you can park your car whenever you need to, whether it’s for a red-eye flight or an early-morning departure.
• Competitive Daily Rates: With daily rates starting at just $20.95 with a coupon, SD Park Shuttle & Fly is a cost-effective solution for long-term parking at San Diego Airport.
• Secure Parking: With 24-hour surveillance, you can park with confidence, knowing your vehicle will be safe while you’re away.

Final Tips for Parking at San Diego Airport

• Plan Ahead: If you’re traveling during a holiday or a busy season, parking lots fill up fast. Consider reserving a parking spot in advance and arriving earlier than usual to avoid delays.
• Check Your Airline’s Guidelines: Some airlines have different check-in and baggage requirements, so always verify what time you need to check in to avoid missing your flight.
• Consider Traffic: Traffic to the airport can vary based on the time of day. If you’re traveling during rush hour or bad weather, factor in extra time for your commute.