Thanksgiving Travel Tips: Gobble Up a Smooth Journey at AUS!

Turkey Day is almost here, and we’re ready to help you wing your way through Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) with ease! Whether you’re flying home for family feasts or heading out for a Friendsgiving adventure, we’ve got the recipe for a stress-free holiday travel experience. Here’s how to make your journey as smooth as pumpkin pie:

Getting to AUS: No Turkey Trots on the Roads!

The roads to AUS can get as busy as a Thanksgiving kitchen, so plan ahead to avoid traffic jams. Check real-time updates at DriveTexas.org before heading out. And if you’re looking for a fuss-free option, hop on CapMetro’s Route 20, which offers a convenient ride to the terminal (and spares you the gas money!).

Heads-up: The Rental Car Lane on-ramp and the Cell Phone Lot southwest exit will have intermittent closures during the holiday rush. Follow the temporary signs and use Spirit of Austin Lane or Hotel Drive for smooth access to the terminal.

Park Like a Pro: Don’t Wing It

Parking during the holidays fills up faster than your favorite side dish, so reserve your spot early at ABIAParking.com or call (512) 530-3300 to check availability.

• Frequent Parker Program: It’s back! Now’s the time to check your email for account updates or sign up online at https://www.fppaustin.com/.
• Using the shuttle? Allow extra time—shuttles typically run every 15-20 minutes.

For pick-ups and drop-offs, both the upper departures level and lower arrivals level are fair game. Just follow the signs to make it quick and easy.

Timing Is Everything: Arrive Early!

You wouldn’t wait until the turkey’s burnt to start cooking, right? The same goes for travel!

• Arrive 2.5 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
• If you’re checking bags, returning a rental car, or traveling in a big group, give yourself a little extra wiggle room.
• But, no need to camp out! AUS recommends arriving no more than 4 hours before your flight. Trust us, the terminal is busy, and we don’t want you waiting for too long before boarding your flight.

Make Security a Breeze

With three Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints leading to all gates, we’re keeping things moving!

• Early flights? No problem. Checkpoints open bright and early at 3 a.m.
• TSA PreCheck and Clear are available at Checkpoint 2 West.

Packing Tips That Won’t Leave You in a Pickle:

• Solid foods like pies, veggies, or rolls? Totally fine for carry-ons. But mashed potatoes and gravies? Those are liquids, so pack them in your checked bags.
• Traveling with ice packs? Make sure they’re frozen solid or TSA will have to take them away.
• Keep those gifts unwrapped—TSA might need to peek inside. Better yet, mail them ahead so you can travel lighter!

Check-In Like a Travel Pro

Skip the line, not the cranberry sauce, with these tips:

• Use mobile boarding passes or print one at a self-service kiosk.
• Some airlines even offer curbside check-in, and you can skip the ticket counter entirely.

Don’t forget to check with your airline for flight updates. Even if Texas skies are sunny, delays can happen elsewhere, so stay in the loop.

Accessibility for Every Traveler

At AUS, we’re making travel easier for everyone this holiday season.

• GoodMaps App: This wayfinding tool is perfect for travelers who are hard of hearing, blind, or have low vision. It offers step-by-step directions through haptics, visuals, and text.
• TSA Cares: Need extra help? Contact TSA 72 hours before your trip for personalized support through the security process.

Learn more about all our accessibility services, including curbside rideshare pick-ups for travelers with mobility devices, at AUS All Accessibility Services.

Turn Your Wait Into a Treat: Enjoy AUS!

• Grab a bite at one of our local Austin restaurants—because tacos make every day better.
• Check out local art displays that showcase the heart and soul of our city.
• Tap your toes to live music performances while you wait for your flight.

Need directions? Use our interactive map at AirportMaps.AustinTexas.gov to find your way to food, art, or your gate!

Flying Allegiant or Frontier?

These airlines operate out of the South Terminal, located at 10000 Logistics Lane, not the main Barbara Jordan Terminal. Shuttle service is available, but on-site parking at the South Terminal is highly recommended.

Big Things Are Cooking at AUS

You might notice some construction during your visit—it’s part of our Journey With AUS improvement projects. Follow us on social media or visit AUS Construction Updates for the latest scoop.

From all of us at AUS, we’re grateful for the chance to help you get to your destination this Thanksgiving. Safe travels, full hearts, and happy holidays! Don’t forget to snap a selfie at AUS and tag us on social media—we’d love to see how you make the most of your journey.