How Early Should I Get to Denver Airport to Miss Delays?

Denver International Airport is amongst the top 10 busiest airports in the world. It processes millions of passengers annually. With such high passenger volumes and long wait lines, ‘How early should I get to Denver airport’ is one inevitable question that comes to the mind of every passenger.

In this blog, we’ll explore how early you should get to DIA, why arriving early matters, wait times at DIA and tips to arrive early to make your journey smoother. Let’s begin!

Recommended Arrival Times: How early should I get to Denver airport

Domestic Flights

• Standard Recommendation: DIA’s official suggestion for the travelers is to arrive two hours before boarding time (not departure time). Your boarding typically begins 30–50 minutes before the takeoff.
• Peak Travel Season: Holiday season experiences an even larger influx of passengers, leading to prolonged wait times and longer lanes. During these peak travel times, it’s recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours early to account for longer security lines and parking delays. 

Pro Tip: Reserve your parking spot in advance to avoid additional delays. Visit Park2Jet’s website to pick from a range of parking options available. 

International Flights

• Standard Recommendation: Arrive at least three hours before boarding time. International flights require additional steps such as customs and immigration processing.
• Peak Travel Season: During peak travel season, arrive at least 3.5 hours before your boarding time. This will ensure you have enough time to clear TSA Precheck, custom, immigration and other security steps at the airport. 

Factors That Influence Denver Airport Delays

In addition to the added peace of mind you get when you have enough time on your hands for a smooth onboarding, here’s a list of reasons why it’s extremely crucial; 

Security Wait Times at DIA 

Security wait times at DIA can vary significantly, depending on the time of day and season. With two main security checkpoints—South checkpoint at Level 5 and West checkpoint at Level 6—passengers often face long lines during peak hours (4 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–3 p.m.). 

Note: TSA PreCheck and CLEAR users typically experience shorter wait times (under 10 minutes), while standard passengers may wait up to an hour during peak times.

Parking Delays at DIA 

DIA has various on-site options like Terminal Garages, Pikes Peak and others. Here’s a guide to Denver Airport Parking Map: Locations & Pricing. 

However, these parking lots tend to fill up during holidays or peak travel times. Off-site parking options are the best alternatives for all seasons in terms of affordability. Parking lots like Park2Jet offer top-notch amenities with complementary shuttle services that ensures timely arrival to the terminal. 

Train Rides to Concourses

The underground train connecting Jeppesen Terminal to Concourses A, B, and C is efficient but can become crowded during busy periods. Depending on your gate location, the train ride can take 5–17 minutes.

Baggage Check-In Queues

Denver International Airport operates large check-in counters that can become congested during peak times. If you’re traveling with checked luggage, allow extra time for baggage drop-off.

Weather Conditions

Denver’s unpredictable weather, especially during winter, can lead to flight delays or cancellations due to snowstorms or high winds. Moreover, this might lead to heavy traffic on your way to the airport. The parking lots at DIA also experience additional rush during these times. Having a prebooked reservation can be a bonus in these circumstances. 

By arriving early, you’ll have sufficient time to navigate these potential bottlenecks without feeling rushed or risking missed flights.

Tips for Avoiding Delays at DIA

Planning ahead can save you from unnecessary stress at Denver International Airport:

1. Use Expedited Screening Programs

• Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR for faster security clearance.
• Consider using DEN Reserve, a free service that allows you to book a dedicated security screening time up to 14 days in advance. 

2. Monitor Real-Time Updates

Staying informed about current conditions to help you pre-analyse the possible scenarios, in order to avoid delays at DIA.

• Use the MyTSA app or FlyDenver.com for real-time security wait times at DIA.
• Sign up for flight alerts from your airline for updates on delays or gate changes.

3. Reserve A Parking Spot In Advance

Parking can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of traveling through DIA:

• DIA offers various on-site parking options such as Pikes Peak and Terminal Garages. This DIA parking guide will help you navigate and reserve on-site parking facilities with ease. 
• While the on-site parking offers proximity, not only do they cost a fortune, but also there are high chances of them being fully booked due to extreme rush at DIA. Opt for off-site parking lots like Park2Jet with complementary shuttle services. It offers top-notch amenities at competitive rates. Book Your Slot Today! 

Park2Jet Facility

4. Choose Off-Peak Travel Times

Flying during less busy times can significantly reduce wait times at DIA. Book flights early in the morning or midweek (Tuesdays/Wednesdays) when passenger volumes are lower.

5. Follow TSA guidelines for carry-on items

• Keep electronics and liquids easily accessible if you don’t have expedited screening privileges.
• Avoid prohibited items that could cause delays at DIA security checkpoints.
• Place metal objects such as coins and keys in your carry-on bag.
• Put laptop computers and other electronic devices in a screening bin.
• Remove shoes, jackets and belts and place in a screening bin.
• All baggage and vehicles are subject to search at any time.
• Do not leave bags unattended as they will be confiscated.
• Report unattended items or suspicious activity immediately to airport personnel.
• TSA prohibits explosive materials, flammable items and other hazardous materials in your checked baggage.

These are a few things you can keep in check when the thought of ‘How early should I get to Denver airport’ comes to your mind. 

Wrapping Up

While the process at the airport is time-consuming, the added stress of parking your vehicle at a secure spot might as well take a toll on your mind. To avoid all this added stress, Park2Jet offers premium parking options at affordable prices.

Learn More! Being just minutes away from the terminal and free shuttle services running every 10 minutes, Park2Jet ensures you have a smooth onboarding. Reserve Your Spot Today! 

FAQs