The Best Airports To Use When Visiting At

Airports can be overwhelming for new travellers, with their complex layouts, long hallways, and moving walkways. However, most airports follow a basic design, and with a little research, they can be easily navigated. When travelling, it is important to research the correct terminal in advance and arrive at the airport early. This is especially true for international flights. Food at the airport can be expensive, so it is a good idea to eat beforehand. It is also important to note that some airports have better facilities than others. For example, LaGuardia Airport in New York City used to be known for its subpar facilities, but after its reopening in 2020, Terminal B was named the best new airport in the world by UNESCO.

Transport options to and from the airport

When it comes to transport options to and from the airport, there are several factors to consider, including the location of the airport, the availability of public transportation, and personal preferences. Here are some common transport options:

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is located just across the Potomac River in Virginia and is the closest airport to Washington, DC. It is accessible via its own Metro stop on the Blue and Yellow lines, offering convenient connections to the city. Taxi stands are available outside the baggage claim area, with fares ranging from $15 to $20 for a ride into downtown DC. Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also popular choices for travellers. For those who prefer to drive, the airport provides multiple parking options, including garages and parking lots.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Washington Dulles International Airport is situated 26 miles from Washington, DC, in suburban Virginia. It is connected to the city via the Metro's Silver line, with rides taking approximately one hour and costing $6.75. The airport is exclusively served by Washington Flyer taxi cabs, which can be found outside the main terminal. Ridesharing services are also available for added convenience.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport serves as one of the major gateways to Washington, DC, and its surrounding areas. While information about its public transportation options is scarce, it is likely to have similar offerings to the other DC-area airports, including taxi services, ridesharing, and parking facilities for those who drive.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is a major hub in Texas, serving a large number of passengers annually. While specific transport options were not readily available, the airport is undergoing significant expansion and improvement projects, including the construction of new terminals and the enhancement of roadways and connectivity. It is likely to have a range of transport options available, including taxi services, ridesharing, and car rental services.

Westchester County Airport

Westchester County Airport is located in New York and offers a unique blend of leisure and business attractions. While specific transport information was not readily available, the airport is known for its proximity to various educational institutions and cultural offerings. It is likely to have taxi services, rental car facilities, and ridesharing options available for travellers.

In addition to the above, it is worth noting that many airports offer a range of services to assist travellers, such as the Air General Traveler Services, which can provide interline transfer connections, baggage assistance, and arrangements for airline lounge access. Additionally, most airports have dining and shopping options available for travellers waiting for their flights or during layovers.

Food and drink options at the airport

When it comes to choosing an airport, it's important to consider not only its location but also the amenities it offers, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there. Food and drink options are an essential part of the airport experience, whether you're looking for a quick bite before your flight or a relaxing meal during a layover. Here's a look at the food and drink options at different airports:

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport:

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport offers a wide range of dining choices, with over 50 restaurants and cafes available on both sides of security. You can find various options to suit your preferences, whether you're looking for a quick coffee and pastry or a sit-down meal before your flight.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI):

BWI Airport provides a diverse range of dining options to satisfy any craving. With over 50 choices throughout the terminals and concourses, you're sure to find something to suit your taste buds. For a quick bite, you can grab something from McDonald's, which is open 24/7 with a limited menu overnight, or indulge in some treats from Dunkin' Donuts, also open around the clock. If you're looking for something more substantial, BWI offers an array of dining options, including interactive wayfinding maps to help you find the perfect meal near your gate.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA):

Reagan Airport, located just across the Potomac River in Virginia, offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes. Local favourites include delicious burgers from Good Stuff Eatery, flavourful Mediterranean bowls from CAVA, and the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl. Whether you're craving a casual bite or a heartwarming meal, Reagan Airport has you covered.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD):

As the primary international airport for the DC region, Washington Dulles International Airport offers a broad range of dining choices. With nearly 157 nonstop domestic and international destinations served by almost 40 airlines, you can explore various culinary options before boarding your flight. Dulles is also conveniently connected to DC via the Metro's Silver line, making it easily accessible for travellers.

Remember, when deciding which airport to use, it's beneficial to consider not only the location but also the amenities that align with your preferences and needs. Each airport presents a unique mix of dining options, ensuring that you can find something to satisfy your hunger and enhance your overall travel experience.

How to navigate the airport

Airports can be overwhelming, especially for first-time travellers. However, most airports follow a similar basic design, and the steps you need to follow are essentially the same everywhere. Here is a detailed guide on how to navigate an airport:

Before you go to the airport:

First, research the correct terminal for your flight in advance. Many airlines allow you to check in online 24 hours before your flight, which can save you time at the airport. If you are checking a bag, you will need to go to the luggage drop line to get it weighed. Some airlines offer self-check-in kiosks at the airport, while others have customer service agents at the check-in counter to handle the process. If you'd like a paper boarding pass, you will also need to check in at the airport.

Getting to the airport:

Give yourself an hour and a half to two hours to get to the airport, as recommended by the airports themselves. If you are parking at the airport, give yourself an extra 20 minutes. Airport parking lot shuttles can sometimes take a long time to arrive or get filled to capacity, so budget extra time to avoid missing your flight.

At the airport:

Once you enter the airport, the first thing you should do is check in, if you haven't already. Then, go through security. Keep in mind that security lines can be long, especially if you don't have security pre-clearances like TSA Precheck or Global Entry. At security, you will need to remove your shoes and belt and follow any other specific rules, such as limits on liquids. It is recommended to wear shoes that are easy to take on and off and keep everything in your bag except your ID and ticket. After security, you will need to find the gate from which your plane will be boarding. Airports are divided into concourses, designated by letters (e.g. Concourse A, Concourse B), and each concourse has numbered gates (e.g. Gate 1, Gate 2). Look for signs directing you to the correct concourse and gate. Some airports are large and may require you to take a train or tram to reach your concourse.

Additional tips:

• Most US airports allow you to bring in empty reusable water bottles, so you can bring one and fill it after security.
• If you have any questions or need directions, don't hesitate to ask anyone with a badge. Airport staff are usually friendly and happy to help.
• Many airlines have apps that can guide you through checking in and navigating the airport.
• If you have accessibility needs, call the TSA Cares hotline at least 72 hours before your trip to ask any questions about screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint.

How to find the correct terminal

When it comes to air travel, it's important to know your way around the airport. Here are some tips to help you find the correct terminal with ease:

Firstly, it's a good idea to research the correct terminal in advance. Most airports have websites with detailed information about their layout and facilities. Check which terminal your airline operates from, as some larger airports are split into multiple terminals, often labelled by compass direction (e.g. Terminal East or West) or letter/number systems. Knowing the correct terminal beforehand will make navigating the airport much simpler and less overwhelming, especially if you're travelling through a large, busy airport.

Secondly, when you arrive at the airport, follow the signs. Most airports have clear signage to direct passengers to the correct terminal. Keep an eye out for your airline's name or logo, as this will often indicate that you're heading in the right direction. Some airports also have a mini train or tram system to help passengers get between terminals, so you may need to figure out which line to take and which direction to go in.

If you're flying into or out of a large city, there may be multiple airports in the area, so it's important to confirm which airport you need. For example, when travelling to Washington, DC, you could fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), or Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). Each airport will have its own set of terminals, so knowing which one you're flying from or to will be crucial in finding the correct terminal.

Finally, give yourself plenty of time. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least two to three hours before departure, depending on whether your flight is domestic or international. This buffer gives you extra time to navigate the airport, find the correct terminal, and deal with any unexpected delays or complications. With ample time, you can also enjoy the airport amenities, such as dining and shopping options, and take care of practical matters like bathroom breaks, charging your devices, and downloading entertainment for your flight.

How to get through security

When deciding which airport to use, it is worth considering that there are often multiple airports near a city, which can offer cheaper flights. If you are booking an international flight, you will probably want to opt for the closest major airport. If you are a pilot, you may be looking for a smaller, local airport.

Now, here is some advice on how to get through security:

Getting through airport security can be a stressful experience, but with some preparation, you can make the process smoother. Firstly, give yourself plenty of time by arriving at the airport early. Plan to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. This will give you a buffer to handle any unforeseen delays and reduce travel anxiety. Some airports have designated security lanes for families, frequent flyers, or members of programs like TSA PreCheck, so look out for these to save time.

Before you reach the security checkpoint, have your boarding pass and ID ready. Place your documents in a readily accessible pocket or a travel document holder. If possible, use a mobile boarding pass, which many airlines offer and can be scanned directly from your phone.

It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the TSA guidelines on what to bring, what to pack, and what to expect. Pack only what you need, and if you are unsure about an item, it is best to leave it at home. All liquids and gels must be placed in a clear, resealable bag, and only one bag per passenger is allowed. Any liquids you are taking on the plane must be 100ml or below, and the bag itself cannot exceed 1000ml.

When you are at the checkpoint, remove the necessary items from your carry-on and place them, along with your carry-on, on the belt or in the provided bins. Most airports will require you to remove any plastic bags of liquids and laptops from your bag. If you have completed a "TSA Pre Check", you won't need to remove your liquids or laptop. You will also need to remove your shoes, so wear ones that are easy to slip off, and your belt. If you have any large electrical items, like a laptop or hairdryer, remove them and place them in a separate tray.

Finally, remember to stay calm and be polite and respectful to security personnel. If you are selected for additional screening, comply with the instructions given. Being cooperative will help you get through the process more quickly.

Frequently asked questions