How Early Should I Arrive at San Diego?
Personalized arrival time recommendations for San Diego International Airport (SAN) based on current conditions
Recommended Arrival Times at SAN
Domestic Flights at SAN
International Flights at SAN
Current Wait Times at SAN
What's Included in These Times
Domestic Flight (2 hours)
- Check-in & bag drop (if needed): 15-20 min
- Security screening: 16 min avg
- Walk to gate: 10-15 min
- Buffer for delays: 20-30 min
International Flight (3 hours)
- Check-in & bag drop: 20-30 min
- Security screening: 16 min avg
- Passport control: 27 min avg
- Walk to gate: 15-20 min
- Buffer for delays: 30-45 min
Tips for SAN
- Add 30 minutes if you're checking bags
- Add 30-60 minutes during holidays and peak travel seasons
- TSA PreCheck can save 30+ minutes at SAN
- Mobile check-in 24 hours before saves time at the airport
Need a Personalized Calculation?
Enter your flight time and travel details for a precise arrival recommendation
Use Arrival CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive at San Diego International Airport for a domestic flight?
For domestic flights at SAN, arrive 2 hours before departure. During peak hours (5-8 AM, 4-7 PM), arrive 2 hours 30 minutes early. With TSA PreCheck, 1 hour 30 minutes is usually sufficient.
How early should I arrive at San Diego International Airport for an international flight?
For international flights at SAN, arrive 3 hours before departure. This includes time for check-in, security, and passport control. During peak periods, arrive 3 hours 30 minutes early.
Is 2 hours enough time at San Diego International Airport?
2 hours is generally sufficient for domestic flights at SAN during normal hours. Add 30 minutes if checking bags, and consider arriving earlier during peak travel periods or holidays.
What are the busiest times at San Diego International Airport?
The busiest times at SAN are typically 5-8 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays. The busiest months are Jul, Aug, Dec. Arriving earlier during these periods is recommended.