12 Dulles Airport Holiday Travel Tips

DULLES, VA — Are you planning to travel through Washington Dulles International Airport during Thanksgiving weekend? Here are 12 helpful tips provided by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) for holiday airport travelers.

“Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods for Washington’s airports,” said Margaret McKeough, executive vice president and chief operations officer for the MWAA. “Passengers should prepare for additional crowds on the roadways and within the terminals from Friday, November 18, through Sunday, November 27. Our staff is working hard to make sure their journey is efficient and enjoyable.”

Dulles International Travel Tips:

• Arrive Your Way – Dulles is connected to the region by highways, Silver Line Express, Washington Flyer Taxi and other bus options.
• Park Close to the Terminal – Use Terminal-Hourly for a short stay or Terminal-Daily for overnight trips. Or consider garage parking to keep your car out of inclement weather.
• Enjoy Your Journey – Dulles International opened two spas, seven new eateries and five duty-free shops this year. A children’s play area opened near Gate B70.
• Minimize the Wait – Enroll in TSA Pre-Check or CLEAR registered traveler programs. Check live TSA wait times online or on airport monitors. For international flights, download the free Mobile Passport App and use Global Entry or Dulles Passport Express for expedited Customs processing.

General Airport Tips

• Re-confirm the status of your flight with your airline before arriving at the airport.
• Expect full flights and full luggage bins on board.
• Bring government-issued I.D. for all adult travelers and passports for all travelers on international trips.
• Avoid stress by arriving at the airport early. Get to the terminal at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
• Obey posted speed limits and be alert for Silver Line construction activity on the way to Dulles.
• Keep valuables out of plain sight and pack them in carry-on luggage only. Remember to lock cars and take the key.
• Leave gifts unwrapped until after the flight. Review TSA’s prohibited items list.
• Follow Dulles International (@Dulles_Airport) on Twitter or for important travel information updates and flydulles.com to explore the full range of airport services and amenities.

Image credit: Washington Dulles International Airport Facebook page