Passenger Tips For A Busy Holiday Travel Season

Boise, Idaho – The Boise Airport is preparing for busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period, traditionally one of its busiest times of the year. Nearly 165,000 passengers are expected to pass through BOI during the 10 days surrounding the Thanksgiving holiday from Thursday, Nov. 21 to Sunday, Dec. 1. If you are planning to fly this holiday season, please review the tips below before arriving at the airport.

THE AIRPORT WILL BE BUSY

Passenger projections suggest the busiest days will likely be Tuesday (11/26) and Wednesday (11/27) prior to the holiday, and Sunday (12/1) following the holiday. The busiest times of day at the security checkpoint are anticipated to be between 5 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 10 a.m. to noon.

CELL PHONE WAITING HAS MOVED

The cell phone lot at the airport has moved to a new, much larger location just a short 5- to 7-minute drive away from the terminal. The new location is at 2950 S. Curtis Road and is adjacent to the Economy Lot. The new lot is three times larger than the previous parking strip and is a real parking lot with individual stalls, which means no more pulling forward as others leave. Click here to see a map and get directions, or enter the address into your smartphone navigation app.

MAKE A PLAN FOR PARKING

The Boise Airport has nearly 8,000 parking stalls total in the East Garage, Main Garage, Long-Term Surface Lot and Economy Lot. As we head into the busiest parking season of the year, it’s likely the terminal parking garages could reach capacity throughout the holiday season. Preparing yourself with the most up-to-date parking information will help streamline your airport arrival.

Check Parking Availability: Before heading to the airport, use the real-time parking availability feature on the parking page of the airport’s website.

Know How to Access the East Garage: The airport’s newest parking garage has its own entrance off Airport Way. If you are planning to park in this garage, move into the left drive lane as soon as you pass the airport’s entrance sign. Signage will direct you to the East Garage, which is your first left off Airport Way.

Consider the Economy Parking Lot: The Economy Parking Lot is located at Victory and Orchard (5600 W. Victory Rd.) and is serviced by a shuttle that runs every 15 minutes. Remember to add an extra 30 minutes to your schedule if the terminal garages are full to take the shuttle from the Economy Lot.

Make a Reservation for Curbside Valet: Curbside valet, operated by local company The Car Park, is available on the east end of the upper curb. The Boise Airport recommends travelers make an online reservation in advance of your arrival to guarantee your spot. Reservations can be made here.

ARRIVE TWO HOURS EARLY

Passengers should check with their airlines to verify the status of their flight before arriving at the airport. While most passengers can normally speed through the airport and get to their gate in minutes, the holiday travel season can often lead to longer lines and unanticipated delays. For that reason, passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport no later than two hours before departure. Remember that parking may include a shuttle ride from the Economy Lot to the terminal.

KNOW WHAT YOU CAN PACK

TSA encourages passengers to pack smart. Jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy, bottles of wine and other Thanksgiving treats are commonly confiscated at TSA checkpoints and should go into checked baggage. As always, check your bags for prohibited items such as knives and firearms to keep things flowing smoothly through screening. The TSA has a comprehensive list of packing guidance for items.

The Boise Airport wishes everyone a happy holiday season and enjoyable travel.

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ABOUT THE BOISE AIRPORT

The Boise Airport welcomed over 4.75 million passengers in 2023 and is served by nine airlines flying to 26 nonstop destinations. As infrastructure critical to the region’s growth and prosperity, the Boise Airport is a vital asset for Idaho and serves as a gateway to the entire Treasure Valley. According to a recent study, each year BOI generates more than $2.9 billion in total economic impact, supports more than 21,000 jobs in the region and produces more than $157 million in state and local taxes. BOI receives no local tax dollars. Visit iflyboise.com to learn more.