Airport Survival Guide

Some tips on how to get through a trip from Lindbergh Field or Los Angeles International Airport

  • Map for Terminal 2 Parking By now you’ve probably heard about The Green Build at Terminal 2. Because of construction, the parking lot in front of the terminal has been closed. If you’re flying out of Terminal 2, follow the green signs to McCain Road for the most convenient parking.
  • How to get through security faster Some tips from TSA: remove body piercings, wear slip-on shoes, collapse that baby stroller before you get to the metal detector, pack your coats and liquids in your checked luggage.
  • Avoid: 7 Items that set off security What’s likely the most stressful part of air travel these days is just getting through security. Budget Travel compiled this list of seven things that can unknowingly set off security measures. They include aluminum foil wrappers, headbands small alcohol bottles, inhalers, underwire bras, peanut butter and snow globes. Some of them are even banned for carry-on. Click here to find out why.
  • Get free gift wrapping Once you’ve walked through security, look around for the gift-wrapping stations provided by volunteer Airport Ambassadors and Airport Authority staffers. They’ll be open from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 21 – 23. It’s complimentary for ticketed passengers.
  • Enjoy an art stroll  With all its open space, Lindbergh Field offers lots of room for the installation of art. The collection available to travelers was expanded in November 2011 with a new piece by local artist Miki Iwasaki over the baggage claim area in Terminal 1.  Here’s a listing of all the pieces and a map of where to find them.
  • Get into the spirit Carolers will be entertaining the crowds at both terminals of Lindbergh Field beginning at 6 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 22. The Rockin’ Cranberries and the Full Measure Carolers are among the performers. Before you head to your gate, grab a cocoa and enjoy.
  • Pack light if going overseas Although there are practical restrictions on their size, none of the major U.S. airlines puts a cap on the weight of a carry-on bag on domestic flights — but several do on international flights. For U.S. travel, Hawaiian Airlines has established a 25-pound limit for carry-on bags.
  • Flying out of LAX? Check conditions ahead of time. There are several ways to check flight conditions. If you’re at home, try this link. If you’re traveling in the car, find AirRadio 530 AM for conditions. You can also call the airport’s automated hotline at (888) 544-9444.
  • Santa sightings at LAX  Recently named the Most Social of Airports, LAX is bringing Santa to its terminals on Thursday, Dec. 22 and Friday, Dec. 23. Keep an eye out for Kris Kringle or some volunteers wearing red vests as they roam among the crowds.
  • Secure luggage with approved lock If you’re taking valuables to or from a holiday celebration, you may be thinking of locking your luggage. Check the TSA site for a list of manufacturers who make luggage or locks that can be easily opened with a special tool used by security screeners.
     
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