Being Prepared Can Ease the Pain of Holiday Travel

The long Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest for airports across the country, and San Diego International Airport is preparing for the crowds by having more employees on duty to help passengers through the lines and security process.

Airport officials are expecting 50,000 travellers to pass through Lindbergh Field during the holiday travel period, and they recommend arriving at least 1.5 hours before their departure time for domestic flights and 2.5 hours for international flights.

The Transportation Security Administration has posted tips on their website to make the screening process as painless as possible, including removing all objects that can trip the metal detector, taking off shoes and removing laptops and other electronic devices from carry-on bags. Taking the time while waiting in line to prepare, rather than scrambling at the last minute, will speed up the process.

Lindbergh Field has a major construction project under way, resulting in the removal of the parking lot in front of Terminal 2. An adjacent lot is available via McCain Drive just west of the airport, and other long-term lots are available. Valet parking service is now available in front of Terminals 1 and 2, costing $34 each 24-hour period. Parking for travelers with disabilities is available at all airport lots. For additional information call 619-291-2087.

Folks picking up passengers can wait in the cell phone lot at 2701 North Harbor Dr. just east of the commuter terminal. Accessible from the northbound lanes, drivers can park and wait without being hassled by curbside security.

To help sooth frayed nerves, live music will fill the air on Wednesday. The Holiday Trombone Quartet will play in Terminal 2 west from 6-8 a.m., Hand Bells will ring out in Terminal 2 east from 6-8 a.m., and Rockin’ Cranberries will put on a vocal performance in Terminal 1 from 8-10 a.m.