What to Consider for On-Time Arrival at EWR Airport
Situated in the bustling tri-state area, EWR serves as a gateway for millions of travelers each year. Located 16 miles from Manhattan, it’s one of the most popular airports in the region and one of the busiest in the United States. The airport has three terminals: A, B and C.
Flying can often feel overwhelming, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the airport. To ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible, we recommend arriving at the airport well in advance of your flight. This will factor in traffic conditions and potential delays, particularly at peak times, and ensure you sail through security checkpoints with plenty of time.
Preparing your Documents
Before heading to EWR Airport, it's essential to verify that you have all the required documentation in hand, as lacking the necessary paperwork could hinder your ability to board your flight.
ID
For domestic flights within the U.S., typical forms of identification for American citizens include state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards. The TSA website offers a detailed list of acceptable IDs for domestic travel. Other valid forms of identification include passports, driver's licenses, state-issued ID cards, and Military IDs. American citizens can even use expired driver's licenses or state-issued IDs within one year of expiration, but it's advisable to check the TSA's REAL ID webpage for more information.
The Transportation Security Administration does not require children under 18 to show identification when traveling with an adult within the U.S.
Visa
If you're flying internationally, your destination may require a valid visa for entry, so it's crucial to research and adhere to the specific entry requirements of your destination country beforehand.
Passport
If you’re flying to an international destination, a valid passport is mandatory for check-in. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date, as many countries enforce this rule. While passports serve as valid forms of ID for domestic flights, American citizens also have the option to present state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards.
Planning your Arrival Time for Domestic and International Flights
Domestic Flights
For domestic flights departing from EWR Airport, we suggest arriving at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. At check-in, you can proceed through security and proceed directly to your gate.
Checking-In Online
Many airlines offer mobile check-in the day before your flight, so you may not need to do this at the airport. This service saves time at the airport and makes it easy for you to select your seat and meal options in advance too. If you do need to check luggage, a car seat or a stroller, visit an agent at the Check-in desk for your airline.
International Flights
For international flights departing from Newark Liberty Airport, it is recommended to arrive at least three hours before your scheduled departure time. Check-in desks close one hour before departure, and travelers must go through security after checking in.
Understanding Customs and Immigration Wait Times
At Newark Liberty Airport wait times for customs and immigration can vary based on flight arrival schedules, passenger volume, and staffing levels. On average, travelers may expect the process to take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, but it can sometimes be shorter or longer. It's worth making sure you are totally prepared with all necessary documents and allow sufficient time to navigate through these checkpoints, especially during peak travel periods. Keep checking for any real-time updates or alerts from the airport or airline regarding wait times to help manage your expectations and plan accordingly.
Average Wait Time to Get Through Security
According to recent data, Newark Liberty Airport has one of the shortest security wait times in the country with an average wait time of less than five minutes. At busy times the lines will inevitably be longer, but during quieter periods security queues move much faster.
Peak Hours and Off-Peak Hours
Peak hours at Newark Liberty Airport generally occur during the early hours (6 AM - 9 AM) and late afternoon to early evening (4 PM - 7 PM), which coincides with the busiest times for international and domestic flights.
Off-peak hours typically occur during the late evening to early morning hours (after 10:00 PM until around 5:00 AM) when fewer flights are scheduled, resulting in lower passenger volumes and shorter wait times at security checkpoints. However, factors such as day of the week, season, and special events can affect wait times too.
Navigating Security Checkpoints Efficiently
Navigating security checkpoints efficiently at Newark Liberty Airport (EWR) is essential for a smooth travel experience. To minimize wait times and streamline the process, ensure that all liquids, gels, and aerosols comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule and remove laptops, tablets, and large electronics from your carry-on bag. Have your boarding pass and identification readily accessible for inspection. If you’re a regular traveler, you might want to consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to speed up the security screening process.
TSA Guidelines and Procedures
For a hassle-free travel experience, it’s worth taking the time to understand TSA guidelines and procedures at Newark Liberty Airport (EWR). Make sure you aren’t carrying any prohibited items and liquids to avoid delays during security screening and remember to pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and place them in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag.
Ensure that all electronic devices are easily accessible for inspection and remove them from your carry-on luggage before reaching the security checkpoint. You may also need to undergo additional screening if necessary. By adhering to TSA guidelines and procedures, you can help speed along the security process and ensure a smooth start to your journey from EWR Airport.
TSA Pre-Check: Benefits and How to Enrol
By enrolling in TSA PreCheck, you can enjoy the benefits of reduced waiting times, simplified security procedures, and relaxed regulations around liquids and electronics. The enrolment process is straightforward too: simply complete an online application, then arrange an in-person appointment at any of the enrollment facilities nationwide. The process involves a comprehensive background check and fingerprinting to ensure safety measures are met. The membership fee, either $78 or $85, grants you access to a five-year membership. Upon approval, travelers are assigned a Known Traveler Number (KTN) for flight reservations. For further information and application procedures, please visit the TSA website.
The Best Parking Options for Getting There on Time
When it comes to parking at Newark Liberty Airport, travelers have a few options. Short-term parking is conveniently located at the terminal, offering easy access for travelers who aren’t planning on leaving the car for long. Daily parking is located slightly further away but is cheaper and better suited to travelers jetting off for a week or longer. You’ll need to hop on the AirTrain to reach the terminal from here. Economy parking is the cheapest option available, with a regular shuttle bus service to all terminals. There’s also valet parking located close to the terminal and corporate parking, which gives discounted rates and priority parking options to corporate travelers.
Note, parking in front of or adjacent to any of the terminals, even for a moment, is strictly prohibited. Any unattended vehicles will be subject to towing at the owner's expense. For passenger drop-off or pick-up, we suggest using one of our designated parking lots or garages.
Comparing Parking Lots
Unless you plan to park for less than 24 hours, you will likely need to choose between Economy Parking and Daily Parking. Economy Parking is the most budget-friendly option for longer-term stays. They are located farther from the terminals, in designated lots outside the terminal areas. Shuttle buses regularly operate between these economy parking lots and terminals. If you pre-book your spot at least 24 hours in advance, you automatically save $10 per day. Alternatively, you could opt for Daily Parking, which is located within the airport and adjacent to each terminal building. A shuttle service runs regularly from each parking lot to each terminal.
Choosing Between Long-Term and Short-Term Parking
Short-term parking at Newark Liberty Airport is designed for brief stays, typically for drop-offs, pick-ups, or short-term visits of less than 24 hours to the airport. If you’re taking a trip, you will likely need to use long-term parking, which is more cost-effective and can be booked for any length of time, from one day to a few weeks.
Utilizing Apps for Real-Time Flight Updates
For smoother travels from Newark Liberty Airport, try using airport apps. These handy tools give you real-time updates, helping you stay informed during your trip. EWR has its own app, which gives travelers real-time updates on flight statuses, gate changes, and baggage claim information. Other apps that work in multiple airports include FlightAware and FlightRadar24. These offer timely information on flight status, gate changes, delays, and cancellations.
Airline and Airport Apps
Travelers can easily stay up to date on their flights using airline and airport apps, accessing crucial details like departure and arrival times right from their phones. Many airline apps go beyond basic updates, offering features like mobile check-in, digital boarding passes, and even meal ordering, making travel smoother and more convenient. The official EWR app boasts a range of features, including flight updates, terminal maps, parking information, and more. It also provides helpful resources for navigating the airport, such as interactive terminal maps and information on amenities and services available at the airport.
Understanding Boarding Procedures and Gate Locations
EWR has three terminals with separate parking, check-in and baggage claim areas, so it is essential to head to the correct one. When you arrive at the airport, check your boarding passes for the designated gate and departure time. Boarding procedures can vary depending on the airline and flight destination, so it's worth arriving at the gate well in advance of the scheduled departure time. Many airlines offer mobile boarding passes through their apps, allowing passengers to bypass traditional paper passes and proceed directly to the gate.
Once you’ve gone through security, you can take advantage of various amenities available near the gate areas at Newark Airport. These amenities may include seating areas, charging stations, restrooms, and dining options.
Getting the Most Out of Airport Lounges for Comfort and Ease
If you’re hoping to take your mind off a long journey, Newark Liberty Airport boasts a dozen or so airport lounges offering an oasis of relaxation and convenience. Accessible to eligible passengers through various membership programs, credit cards, or day passes, airport lounges provide amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to business facilities. Some even include shower facilities, allowing travelers to freshen up before or after their flights.
Accessing Lounges
Newark Liberty Airport currently offers 13 lounges across its three terminals, including five run by United Airlines, a Delta Sky Club and an American Airlines Admirals Club. Travelers with Star Alliance Gold membership are entitled to use the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge in Terminal A too. If you don’t have an eligible airline or credit card membership, you may be able to purchase a day pass to make use of the facilities.
