The last 24 hours before a flight can be quite stressful. You have a checklist that you keep studying to make sure you got everything. Did you pack your underwear? When should you leave in the morning? How long will the security line take? And one big one: where will you park your car?
A little planning can go a long way on departure day, so make sure you know how the next 24 hours is going to go. Pro tip: try working backwards from your flight time and budget ample room for traffic, parking, and the terminal and airport security lines.
Flying out of Detroit Metro Airport? Use this timeline as a starting point for a smoother departure.
24 Hours Before: Check Your Flight
This is the time to confirm your flight number, departure time and terminal. You can also check in online 24 hours before the scheduled flight to make things easier the next day.
Before hitting the sack that night, be sure to:
- Check the weather, both at home and at your destination.
- Check your airline’s baggage rules.
- Charge your phone and other devices.
- Put chargers and travel documents in a safe place.
- Download your boarding pass or add it to your phone’s wallet.
- Confirm transportation and parking plans.
- Set an alarm.
Using Valet Connections for DTW airport parking? Have your reservation information ready. It’s wise to reserve parking when you book your flight, particularly during holidays and other peak travel periods.
12 Hours Before: Finish Packing
Don’t leave the final add-ins till the morning. You always think there will be time, but there won’t be.
Keep critical items in the same place so you can easily grab them before leaving, such as prescriptions, glasses, toiletries, phone, passport, and wallet. Don’t put them in your checked luggage. Add a change of clothes and some snacks to your carry-on in case your flight is delayed.
4 to 5 Hours Before: Check Traffic and Flight Status Again
On departure day, check the flight status before leaving for the airport. This can and does change, so save yourself a hassle and check before loading up the car. Next, check current traffic conditions between your home and Valet Connections.
Budget enough time to accommodate rush hour traffic, road construction, winter weather, and accidents. If in doubt, always leave earlier. You can always grab a coffee or read a book at the gate, and prepare for your trip in a calm state.
3 to 4 Hours Before: Leave Home
The exact timing of this will depend on where you’re coming from, whether you’re catching a domestic or international flight, current traffic, and your airline’s recommendations.
Detroit Metro Airport advises travelers to arrive at the airport no later than 90 minutes before a domestic departure and 120 minutes before an international departure. Add a buffer to allow time for parking and security.
And if you’re traveling during a holiday or early morning rush, give yourself even more breathing room.
About 2½ to 3 Hours Before: Arrive at Valet Connections
Arrive at Valet Connections, check in and hand over the car. Show the attendants a digital or printed copy of your reservation for your short- or long-term off-site parking. Find out when the next free shuttle transportation to DTW is scheduled to come along.
Before leaving your car, do one last check for:
- Phone
- Wallet and ID
- Boarding pass
- Carry-on
- Prescription medications
- Passport for international travel
- Anything you need out of the trunk
Next Stop: The DTW Terminal
Valet Connections provides free shuttle transportation between its facility and Detroit Metro Airport around the clock. They come by every 10 to 15 minutes. During this ride, check the terminal and gate number, and generally get prepared for the next phase. Keep your ID and tickets within easy reach.
About 2 Hours Before: Check Bags and Head for Security
Once inside the airport, check your luggage and head to security. If you’ve built in extra time, you won’t stress out from seeing a longer-than-expected line. Check the airport monitors or your online app for the time again. Departure times can change right up till the last second.
Grab some water or refill your water bottle, get a snack, and use the restroom before boarding.
45 to 60 Minutes Before: Find Your Gate
It’s a good idea to locate your gate and make sure you’re in the right place before going off to get a drink or some food. Make sure the flight number and destination shown at the gate match your boarding pass.
Now you can relax and:
- Charge your phone.
- Download entertainment for the flight.
- Send any last-minute messages.
- Organize what you will need during the flight.
- Listen for boarding announcements.
Stick close by so you don’t have to run through the airport to start boarding.
Departure Time: You’re on Your Way
By the time you settle into your seat, you can kiss the hard part of the day goodbye. You’ve made it! The key is in the plan, and parking is part of that plan. We can help.
Start Your Trip With Valet Connections
Reserve your DTW airport parking with Valet Connections before your next trip. Call us today at (734) 992-4946 with questions about parking and shuttle service.