The festive season is here, and Palm Springs International Airport is prepared to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience as passenger numbers surge for the holidays.
Between December 21– 26, PSP expects to see more than 40,000 departing passengers. The busiest days are anticipated to be Sunday, December 22, Monday, December 23, and Thursday, December 26, averaging more than 7,300 departing passengers on those peak days.
Top Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Travel
1. Arrive Early
- Passengers checking bags should arrive 2 hours before departure, while those with carry-ons should aim for 90 minutes.
- Peak times are expected from 10 AM to 2 PM with wait times potentially reaching 30 minutes at security.
2. Parking
- High demand means main lots are expected to fill up quickly during the holiday period.
- Main Lots: $20/day
- Overflow Lot (Kirk Douglas Way): $18/day (credit card only)
- Shuttle service begins Friday, December 20, and will operate from 4:30 AM till the last flight of the evening. Signage will direct travelers to available parking.
3. Consider Alternative Transportation
- PSP suggests ride-share services (Uber, Lyft), taxis, and SunLine bus routes for parking-free access to the terminal.
4. Stay Updated
- Visit flyPSP.com for live updates on parking availability, security wait times, and travel guidelines.
5. Dining and Concessions
- PSP’s ongoing concessions refresh is bringing new dining and retail options while temporarily impacting some food availability. Plan ahead, especially during peak times. Grab-and-go choices are available for convenience. For updates, including menus and hours, click here.
6. TSA Guidelines
- Wrapped Gifts: Use gift bags instead of wrapping paper in case TSA needs to inspect items. Wrapped gifts may need to be opened for security screening.
- Liquids and Food: Follow the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags: liquids, gels, and aerosols (including food items like sauces, jams, and gravies) must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a single 1-quart-sized bag.
Palm Springs International Airport is committed to providing travelers with an enjoyable and festive holiday journey. For real-time updates and travel tips, visit flyPSP.com.
