With the number of passengers just short of 90 million in 2019, LAX is the third busiest airport in the world and the second busiest in the US. It is known for its hectic atmosphere and traffic congestion, which makes flying to and from it nerve-racking. 

If you are among the many people who are planning to board or land at LAX for their next flight,  you’ll benefit from some helpful tips. For example, a good way to minimize stress is to put a black car service at LAX in charge of your pick-up and drop-off. Read on to learn how you can get through LAX more quickly, without losing your mind.

How much time do you need at LAX?

Since LAX is notorious for its size and crowdedness, a common passenger question is how long it will take to get through the airport. Sometimes, going through the checkpoints is smooth and fast, while at other times, it can be very time-consuming. Wait times will depend on a variety of factors. Overall, it should take 30 to 90 minutes to get through. 

If a professional car service is picking you up after your flight, the service will track your flight on the basis of your airline and flight number. Rest assured that the service will take into account the amount of time that you’ll need to go through customs, baggage claim and immigration.

What time should I get to LAX?

The usual recommendation for passengers is to arrive at LAX two hours in advance of a domestic flight and three hours ahead of an international one. The amount of time you’ll need to get there and go through the checkpoints depends on a variety of factors, such as:

• Time of day: The peak times at LAX’s domestic terminals are: from 5 a.m.to 8 am., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. If you’re traveling internationally, they are: from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Traffic: If you’re wondering how to avoid busy traffic at LAX, find live maps of LA to monitor traffic around the airport. 
• Extreme weather conditions: Severe weather is often the culprit of long security wait times. If there is a weather warning, make sure you arrive at the airport earlier and check if there is a possibility of a delay or cancellation. 
• Other inconveniences: Ongoing airport construction work, TSA understaffing and similar issues can also increase your wait times.

It is better to be safe than sorry, so leaving yourself ample time by setting out for the airport early is your safest bet. 

How can I get through LAX fast?

Do you want to know how to go through LAX effortlessly? The best way to breeze through security is to pack wisely. Don’t overfill your bag as it might be hard to scan. If TSA officers open it for inspection, you’ll have trouble putting your possessions back in place and closing it.

Also, mind the liquids. The 3-1-1 rule states that all liquids must be packed in a 3.4 ounce container, each container should be inside a quart-sized plastic bag and every passenger is allowed to only have one such bag. Avoid the hassle of having to throw your liquids out.

Get answers to other common airport dilemmas, such as if passengers can spend the night at LAX Airport.

Which is the best black car service LAX has?

Check out LAX’s guide to safe travel in order to learn how to protect yourself and others, as well as how LAX maintains the health of its staff and passengers during the coronavirus pandemic. Book a trustworthy car service that will look after your safety in these uncertain times. With Stay Classy LAX, you’ll be driven around in premium vehicles by skilled chauffeurs. 

Arrange for a service via our simple online platform. We’ll let you know where you meet your driver at LAX and monitor your arrival time. Your driver will drop you off at Echo Park or any other LA neighborhood. Getting around LA is a breeze with Stay Classy!