BOISE, Idaho — The Boise Airport has released some tips on how to prepare for the busy holiday travel season. Thanksgiving travel is one of the busiest times of the year, and this year is no different, shaping up to be yet another record period for passenger travel.
An estimated 170,000 passengers are expected to pass through BOI during the 12-day Thanksgiving holiday period, which is from Nov. 16 to Nov. 27, a news release said.
Here are some tips provided by BOI to elevate travel woes:
The Airport Will Be Busy:
Projections suggest the busiest days prior to the holiday will be Tuesday, Nov. 21, and Wednesday, Nov. 22. The days following the holiday will see the busiest travel on Sunday, Nov. 26, and Monday, Nov. 27. The busiest times at the security checkpoints are likely to be 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. to noon, said the news release.
Make A Plan For Parking:
BOI has made upgrades in the past few years, as part of the multi-year capital expansion plan, and a new public garage was opened this summer, reports the airport. The addition of the East Parking Garage has doubled the airport's long-term parking capacity available near the terminal.
However, as the busy season approaches, it's likely the terminal parking garages could reach capacity at various points throughout the holiday season, airport officials said. Prepare by looking at the most up-to-date parking information, as it will streamline your airport travel. Here's some provided tips:
- Check Parking Availability: Before heading to the airport, use the real-time parking availability feature on the parking page of the airport's website.
- Know How to Access the East Garage: The new garage has its own entrance off Airport Way. If you are planning to utilize this garage, make your way to the left drive lane as soon as you pass the airport's entrance sign. Signage will direct you to the East Garage, which is your first left off Airport Way.
- Consider the Economy Parking Lot: The Economy Parking Lot is located at Victory and Orchard (5600 W. Victory Rd.) and is serviced by a shuttle that runs every 15 minutes. Remember to add an extra 30 minutes to your schedule if the terminal garages are full to take the shuttle from the Economy Lot.
- Make a Reservation for Curbside Valet: Curbside valet, operated by local company The Car Park, is available on the east end of the upper curb. The Boise Airport recommends travelers make an online reservation in advance of your arrival to guarantee your spot. Reservations can be made here.
Arrive Two Hours Early:
Check with your airline to verify the status of your flight before arriving at the airport. Holiday travel can lead to longer lines and unanticipated delays, so the news release suggests arriving no later than two hours before departure.
Know What You Can Pack:
TSA asks passengers to pack smart. Commonly confiscated things at TSA checkpoints include jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy and other Thanksgiving fixings should be placed in checked baggage. Make sure to check that you don't have prohibited items such as knifes or firearms, the Boise Airport's news release said. The TSA has a list of packing guidance here.
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