If you hadn’t heard by now, San Antonio International Airport is expecting their busiest spring break in recent years. Yes, in years people.
Starting this very weekend, more than 130,000 people are expected to fly out of the city’s main source of instant travel, an increase of about 10,000 people compared to last year! And couple that with the fact that the airport has already undergone major changes and will only continue to do so in the near future, travelers are going to want to get ahead and be extra prepared before hitting the runway.
So, to both combat those figures and the airport’s new additions, city officials and MySA came up with a little survival guide. Think Ned’s Declassified but for the airport and puro:
The early bird gets the worm
The tried and true expression has been said for years but will probably be all the more truer come this weekend as thousands make their way to San Antonio International Airport. Arrive at least two hours before boarding time and save yourself the hassle of rushing and standing in wait lines.
Check your flight’s status before you arrive at the airport
Who wants to find out that their flight to Cancun was cancelled while waiting in the airport? I certainly do not. Check your flight status online before you arrive and beat the disappointment.
Print or download those boarding passes early people
It’s 2023 y’all, boarding passes can now be printed or downloaded on any smartphone. And conveniently, San Antonio International Airport also has check-in kiosks to print them too, so no excuses for holding up the line.
When in doubt, ask TSA
No shame here. When in doubt, ask it out. TSA is only here to make our travel journeys a heck of a lot easier, so take advantage of asking them any questions you may have. Live assistance is offered 365 days a year via Twitter. Find the security administration at @AskTSA online.
Yes to the 3-1-1 rule, no to Mr. 305
Sorry Pitbull, we follow rules and regulations around these parts. The San Antonio International Airport allows you to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes through the security checkpoint. However, these items are limited to only 3.4 ounces or less per product. This my travel companions is known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Be sure to let TSA officers know right away if you are traveling with larger quantities of medically necessary liquids, as sometimes rules can be overturned if dire.
What’s changed with San Antonio International Airport since last spring break?
The big W has landed at SAT
San Antonians can now cure those Whataburger cravings right outside their gate instead of making a pit stop over at the location off U.S. Highway 281. The popular San Antonio-based fast-food chain opened its first SAT location in September 2022, located just outside Terminal A.
Beercode | kitchen & bar
Another new food staple that San Antonians may have not known about. The gastro pub originated from Italy and decided to open their first Texas location right here at SAT. It’s the eateries second-only location in North America and can also be found in Terminal A.
Adina’s Market
Get your souvenirs before you leave the city. Adina’s Market sells authentic items from the region. I’m talking about clothes, jewelry, leather goods, accessories, and even those hard to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
Fly Away Valet
Travelers can now reserve parking spots online with the airport’s valet service, which can be located in the Short-Term Parking Garage. Did I mention that all active duty and reserve military personnel receive a 10% discounts? Nice.
Spirit Airlines
You might have heard the jokes from social media but put some respect on SAT’s newest airline partner. Spirit Airlines currently has a deal for nonstop flights to both Las Vegas and Orlando. And recently, just announced new nonstop services to Baltimore/Washington, D.C. and Fort Lauderdale. On May 5, the airline will begin service to Los Angeles (LAX).