Peak Season Travel Kicks Off in Denver International Airport with Fourth of July Festivities – Travel And Tour World

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Flags will wave and travelers will soar as the Fourth of July holiday approaches. This period marks the start of Denver’s peak travel season, with an anticipated surge in air travel. From June 28 to July 9, 2024, Denver International Airport (DEN) is expected to handle over 878,000 passengers at TSA checkpoints. The busiest days, predicted to be June 28, June 30, July 7, and July 8, will see over 321,000 travelers, marking a 4.7% increase from last year.

To manage this influx, passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow sufficient time for baggage check-in, security clearance, and reaching their gates. Peak times for security lines are anticipated between 3 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Here are some essential travel tips for navigating DEN during the Independence Day festivities:

TSA Checkpoints

• West Security Checkpoint (Level 6, Northwest corner): Mainly for TSA PreCheck passengers, open from 4 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• CLEAR PreCheck Customers: Available at West Security 3 (near Door 600) for CLEAR customers with TSA PreCheck. Others must use South Security.
• Restricted Access Lanes: For Accessibility/Premium/Employees/Military at West Security 2 (near Door 606).
• Standard Screening: Available at West Security 1.
• DEN RESERVE: Book up to three days in advance to secure a spot at West Security 2 (near Door 606).
• South Security Checkpoint (Level 5, South end): Primary for standard screening, open 3 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• Features four TSA PreCheck lanes until 7:45 p.m. and a CLEAR lane for standard screening customers.
• A-Bridge Security Checkpoint: Offers standard screening from about 4:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; TSA PreCheck is not available here.

For the latest security wait times and to choose the best checkpoint, visit FlyDenver.com. Sign up for expedited screening like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR through DEN’s website, and learn about the DEN RESERVE, a free service allowing passengers to reserve a time slot at the Bridge TSA Security Checkpoint for a smoother experience.

Additional Tips:

• Follow the 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be 3.4 ounces or less per item, contained within one quart-sized bag.
• Ensure you have a valid ID, arrive early, and practice patience.

Parking:

• The Pikes Peak and Longs Peak shuttle lots, priced at $8 per day, will likely be full by 3 a.m. on July 3. Alternative parking is available at 6975 Valley Head Street.
• 36 EV charging stations are available on Level 1 of the parking garages.

Transit:

• Consider the RTD A-line for a hassle-free commute to DEN.

DEN Travel Assist:

• Book airport assistance in advance through FlyDenver.com/DENTravelAssist for help with luggage, meeting gates, and more.

Before heading to the airport, confirm flight timings with your airline, check parking availability, and monitor TSA wait times at FlyDenver.com.

For those picking up passengers, use the Final Approach cell phone waiting lot, ensuring to confirm flight timings in advance.

Arrive early to explore DEN’s extensive shopping and dining options and don’t miss the chance to meet DEN CATS, the airport’s therapy animals, ready to offer comfort with their friendly presence.