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(ABIA)
The Austin airport is warning travelers to “pack your patience” as it expects this Memorial Day weekend to be the busiest in airport history.
This weekend will kick off a period of more than 4.8 million passengers passing through Austin-Bergstrom International Airport by the end of summer—contributing to a projected record-breaking year of 22 million passengers at ABIA.
The surge in traffic at the airport comes as ABIA considers itself officially recovered from the pandemic's impact, an airport spokesperson ABIA Public Information Specialist Bailey Grimmett told Austonia. Additionally, the population growth in Central Texas and more service offered from ABIA has meant more people at the airport, she said. However, it has come under fire for increasingly long wait times at TSA and not having enough parking.
Flying soon? Here’s how to prepare for a busy airport this summer.
Arrive hours early for your flight, especially if it's in the morning
Summer travel lines in September 2021. (Austonia)
The busiest passenger traffic days in summer 2021 were Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays, according to a release but each day of the week is expected to see increased traffic this summer. Lines tend to be longest before 8 a.m. and sometimes mid-morning hours.
Grimmett told Austonia the average person should arrive at the airport two-and-a-half hours before boarding time for domestic flights or three hours early for international flights. You might want to tack on extra time if…
- You need to park or are returning a rental.
- You’re traveling with a big group, children or those who require assistance.
- You’re checking in baggage.
Familiarize yourself with TSA requirements
(ABIA)
The worst thing while traveling is getting stuck in security and having to repack all of your belongings. If you’re traveling with a carry-on of toiletries, medication or food, double-check with TSA.gov if you’re not sure.
Security screening checkpoints open at 3 a.m. and Grimmett said don’t hesitate to ask a staff member if you need help. Faster screening is available by applying for TSA PreCheck or Clear screening for an extra fee.Rather wait for the rush to die down?
Grimmett said to expect near-constant high traffic through August, when students return to school and tourist season ends. The lull is short-lived though—ABIA typically sees another travel uptick in October for events like F1 and ACL Festival.
Once you’re inside, refer to our complete guide to ABIA for a look at the amenities.
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(Compass)
But it doesn't have to be miserable if you have a pool to beat the heat. These homes on the market offer a private oasis much-needed this time of year.
Newly-renovated and back on the market, this 1975 build has been fitted with updated finishes while retaining its retro charm. An open floor plan and high ceilings allow for tons of natural light, the kitchen is complete with all-new fixtures, a focal-point fireplace for the winter months, and a round backyard pool and patio combo for the stifling heat.
4 bedroom, 2 bathroom | 1,844 square feet
According to the Redfin listing, the owners of this house have invested over $200,000 making this house a home. Aside from the spacious resort-style backyard and pool, the inside of the house boasts a media room, game room, wraparound staircase and upstairs deck in sunny South Austin.
5 bedroom, 4 bathroom | 4,390 square feet
In the North Austin Westminster Glen neighborhood, this expansive one-story sits in a cul de sac on a spacious 1.3 acres. With a newly-renovated kitchen, home theater, office for work from home and multiple living areas, the home is a dream. The backyard, complete with a spa, is the oasis.
5 bedroom, 5 bathroom | 4,575 square feet
In the famously luxe West Lake Hills neighborhood, this home features a private zen garden, multiple wings, exposed brick walls and two acres of land to roam. Each of the grand central spaces overlook the infinity pool and basin, with fold-away doors opening to the outdoor kitchen on the ground floor for full indoor/outdoor living.
5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom | 5,725 square feet
Nestled in the Hill Country, this Bee Cave home located in the equestrian community of Madrone Ranch is perfect for the horse enthusiast, complete with a barn on the property. Soaring beam ceilings allow in tons of natural light and stone accents give the home a rustic feel. The home really shines through its gigantic resort pool, with both covered and uncovered patios, and spa with a view.
5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom | 7,153 square feet
