Hi, I am 17, a guy. I am going out of town on Saturday morning. my family and I technically leave on Friday since we are spending the night at the hotel next to the SFO Airport. our flight is at 11:42am on Saturday morning, we are going to Mexico. My dad wants to get to the airport around 7:30am, and so do I. when is a reasonable time to get to the airport for a international flight
bluebellbkk
The general rule for an international flight is to be INSIDE the departures terminal at least 3 hours before scheduled departure, so there's no need to arrive at the airport before say 8.30. But it won't do any harm if you do, except that if you have luggage to check in, the desk might not be open for another hour.
I agree with W T Door that you should aim to get to the hotel on the Friday afternoon so it's worth while unpacking a bit and you can enjoy the hotel facilities.It also means you can relax knowing you're already practically AT the airport, and can't get held up in unexpected traffic.
potatochip
You should be there at least 3 hours prior to departure for an international flight. If you want to be there earlier, that your choice.
sunshine_mel
Around 3 hours before your flight
Rona Lachat
The time is arrival at the check in place.
NOT arrival to the parking entrance, the bus stop, the shuttle stop.
3 hours is the recommended time. This is summer peak travel and the Airport is busy with many flights not just yours.
Suggest your Dads time of 7:30 while a little early does give you time to do what you need for boarding and then allow time for a meal before your flight.If you plan on taking something to eat or drink on board urge you to consume it on the plane as it might not be permitted past Mexican officials and taken away any of the leftovers.
NO NEED to plan on being the last person to board as they close the door and push off.
You are probably taking the Airport shuttle. It does not depart every minute. It can be full. Reserve your seats for the appropriate shuttle departure when you check in.
Anonymous
You should arrive atleast 2-3 hours early because traffic plus secuirty is awful