Brace yourself — passenger numbers at the Denver International Airport continue to reach record highs. So here are a few tried-and-true tips to hopefully help you navigate the chaos.
Plan Ahead
Double check your flight status on the DIA website, and save time by checking the airport's parking lot capacity before you get there
Will you need travel assistance? Book it here. In a hurry? Reserve your spot in the security line.
Monitor Live Wait Times and Delays
The DIA website also offers live updates on TSA wait times at each of the airport's security check points.
You can monitor flight delays at any airport nationwide using the MyTSA app.
- Pro travel tip: You may have better luck flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Historically, Sundays, Mondays, and Fridays have the longest average wait times.
Arrive Two Hours Early
Ah yes, this old debate. Showing up to the airport no later than two hours before your flight is scheduled to depart is the standard recommendation (and no, that doesn’t include parking and catching the shuttle). I personally like to add a half hour to that around the holidays.
- Get oriented: Check out this interactive map of DIA.
- Have time to spare? Good! Grab a bagel, refill your water bottle, take a bathroom break, and revel in the sweet luxury of knowing you’re not going to miss your flight. Still waiting around? Here are the best ways to kill time.
