Feb 8, 2023 - Things to Do
Fly like a pro at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
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Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios
If you want to take the stress out of departing for your next trip out of the Twin Cities, you've come to the right place.
The big picture: While it's no match for the world's busiest airport, Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport's hub status can lead to crowds and cause headaches for even the most seasoned travelers.
- The airport saw 31.2 million total passengers in 2022, a 24% increase compared to 2021.
Driving the news: We asked readers for their best tips for getting through MSP. Here are some of the most helpful hacks we heard:
Getting there:
- Thrifty Traveler editor Kyle Potter recommends parking downtown and taking the light rail to the airport via the Ramp-Ride-Fly program. It can save you more than $20 a day.
- If you do park at an MSP ramp, booking in advance will cut the price by $2 a day.
- Leaving Fido behind? Now Boarding is just minutes from MSP. Park in the pet hotel lot for $18/day and staff will give you a ride to and from the airport.
Check in/Security:
- Local travel gurus say TSA PreCheck is a must-have for a quicker trip through security. The price — $78 for five years — is worth it if you travel frequently. Clear can also help.
- Sticking to a carry-on bag when you can is a tried-and-true travel tip. If you do bring larger luggage, try curbside check-in.
- Traveling with a young child? You can check a car seat (along with whatever else you can fit in its bag) for free.
While you wait:
- The Starbucks in Terminal 1 offers mobile ordering via the coffee chain's app. "Order your coffee while you are in the security line and just swing by to pick up on the way to [your] gate," recommends reader Oliver P.
- "Bring a reusable water bottle, save yourself from paying $4.50 for a Smart Water at the airport," reader Germaine B. writes. "Water fountains are in abundance in the terminal."
- The PGA Club by the start of Concourse E is often less crowded than Delta Sky Club and has a nice tarmac view, according to reader Matt R. Plus: a golf simulator! Admission is $25, but some credit cards may get you in for free.
- The Art @ MSP initiative brings live performances to Terminal 1. Keep the beats going post-departure with the program's Spotify playlist.
Arriving back at MSP:
- There's a Caribou Coffee in the baggage claim (by carousel six). Perfect for a post-flight pick-me-up or for those waiting for a loved one to arrive.
- Avoid a wait by asking your ride to pick you up by departures or in the rideshare area instead of traffic congested arrivals lane.