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Traveling with CLT is your source for news and information to make
your travel experience at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
safe and enjoyable.
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Don't Wing It: Prepare to Travel
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How To Navigate
Record Spring, Summer Crowds
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is expecting record crowds this spring and summer. That means more vehicles on area roads and in parking lots, more people in the terminal and likely longer lines at security checkpoints and concessions.
The busiest days for local passengers will be Thursdays, Fridays and Mondays with peak crowds expected March 28 through April 1.
Don’t Wing It: Prepare to Fly
The best way to make sure the day goes smoothly is to plan for it. From the first hankering to travel to the day you board a flight, here’s what you can do to reduce travel day turbulence.
Months/Weeks Before Travel
- Book Parking: When you book your flight, go ahead and book your parking online or on the CLT Airport app. You can make changes or cancel up until the reservation begins. Booking parking in advance not only guarantees you a spot, but you’ll also get the best available rate. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about on travel day.
- Apply for TSA PreCheck®: Want to glide through Airport security in 10 minutes or less? Consider applying for TSA PreCheck®. It involves filling out an application, completing a brief interview, agreeing to a background check and getting fingerprinted. Most applicants receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) in three to five days, though it can take up to 60 days. Then, add your KTN to your airline reservation and you can go through expedited screening on travel day. You won’t even have to take off your shoes.
- Prepare your pets: From getting the right carrier to the forms your veterinarian needs to fill out and where your furry friend can take a potty break in the terminal, check out the guide to traveling with pets in the CLT blog The Window Seat.
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The Day Before Your Flight
- Check in with your airline and save your boarding pass to the wallet app on your mobile phone.
- Sign up with your airline for flight update alerts.
- Download the CLT Airport app if you haven’t already.
- Gather necessary travel documents (state-issued ID or passport).
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Pack Your Carry On
Make sure to include anything you can’t go without for a day or so. That includes necessary medications, your phone and a charger. Consider adding a change of clothes, hand sanitizer (3.4 oz. or less) and an empty reusable water bottle you can fill up after you go through security.
Gather the liquids you plan to bring in your carry-on bag. Remember, the TSA 3-1-1 policy:
- 3 - Liquids must be 3.4 oz. or less
- 1 - They must fit in one quart-size, clear plastic bag
- 1 - One clear plastic bag per person
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Parents: Did you know the TSA allows “reasonable quantities” of baby formula, breast milk, baby food and sippy cups? Keep those items separate and inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process. Read more about it on the TSA website.
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The Day of Travel
Arrange your day like a countdown to takeoff.
You should be in the terminal at least two hours before a domestic flight, three hours before international travel. Allow more time if it is very busy.
Plan to arrive at the CLT parking lot (aren’t you so glad you pre-booked parking!) a half-hour before you want to get to the terminal.
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Estimate how long it will take to get to the CLT parking lot and set your target time to leave home.
Now, consider how much time you’ll have between the start of your day and that departure time.
What do you need to get done during that time?
- Dress for success: Wear shoes that are easy to slip off and on. Consider wearing layers in case you get hot or cold while traveling.
- Check traffic on a navigation app several times.
- Load bags in the car.
- Double check that you have everything you need, especially your ID.
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At the Terminal
You're Almost Ready!
CLT staff wearing yellow vests will direct you to the checkpoint with the shortest line. Remember, you can get to all gates from any checkpoint.
- Do-it-yourselfer? Check security wait times on CLT’s website or app. Wait times can change frequently, therefore, check often.
- Remove belt, metal watches, etc. while in line for TSA and store safely in your bag.
Once you clear security, enjoy CLT’s amenities until it’s time to board your flight.
On the CLT Airport app you can see the restaurants, shops and places to relax.
- Tap on “change area” to sort by location and view the spots that are in a specific concourse, the Atrium or The Plaza.
- Tap on the cellphone icon to see which restaurants have advance ordering and skip the line.
Other Helpful Tips
We hope you enjoy your travels!
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