Peak Summer Travel Season Is Here

5 Ways To Soar Through RDU

We’re at the height of summer travel season. It seems everyone is on the go.  Each day thousands of travelers are making their way through the airport for family vacations, business trips and group travel experiences.

We want to ensure you have a great experience at RDU. The following five tricks and tips will give you everything you need to soar through RDU this summer with a smile on your face!

1. Arrive Early

You’ve probably heard the old rule-of-thumb to arrive 2 hours ahead of your scheduled flight. Well, it’s true! Plan to arrive to the airport early to allow for any queuing at ticketing or the security checkpoint.

Our peak travel times are from 5-7 a.m. and from 4-7 p.m. This is when the highest number of passengers make their way through the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) checkpoints.

Keep in mind that most airlines at RDU open their ticket counters at 4 a.m.  Also, remember that most flights begin the boarding process 30 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure time.

2. Park Easily

Plan where to park before arriving at RDU. For overnight travel, choose between daily and Park & Ride.

• Daily Parking, $12/day, is located in the garage between the terminals.
• Park & Ride lots, $6/day, are located at the north and south entrances of the terminals. Plan for a 15 minute shuttle ride to the terminals from these lots.

3. Pack Smart

From bag fees to carry-on restrictions, researching how to pack your bags can save you from unexpected surprises at the ticket counter and security checkpoint.

• Contact your airline for information on checked bag fees and carry-on limits.
• Refresh your knowledge of the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags.
• Get ready for the security checkpoint before you enter the queue.
• Find out how to travel with medicines and medical devices.

4. Prep The Kids

Flying with the kids is a great experience, but it requires a few extra measures of planning to ensure no hiccups when arriving at the airport.

• Contact your airline for information on children’s ID requirements
• Talk your child through what to expect at the security checkpoint before arriving
• Remember that car seats, strollers and other “gear” must be screened in the checkpoint
• Speak with your airline’s ticketing staff if you would like a gate pass to accompany your minor to the gate if they are flying alone. The airport cannot issue passes.
• Pack fun stuff like electronic tablets (don’t forget the charger!), coloring books or small toys to keep them entertained.

5. Relax While You Wait

Once you’re on the concourse, it’s time to relax. Take time to enjoy our amenities as well as The Shops of RDU. Here are some of our favorite things to do:

• Take advantage of free Wi-Fi. Don’t forget to follow and tag us while posting that pre-flight status update.
• Plug-in. Find one of hundreds of power outlets right by your seat in Terminal 1 and Terminal 1.
• Enjoy one of the installations from our permanent art collection along the concourses.
• Dine at one of The Shops of RDU. If you’re in a hurry, or prefer to eat near the gate or on the plane, all menu items at every restaurant are available to go.
• Take a piece of N.C. with you at one from one of the retail stores in our terminals.