When it comes to air travel, the old adage “better early than sorry” couldn’t be more relevant.

Arriving at the airport three hours before your flight isn’t just a suggestion—it’s your best hedge against the unpredictable nature of air travel.

Let’s explore why punctuality is crucial, particularly for destinations like Punta Cana, where flights might not be as frequent.

Closed Gates and Missed Opportunities

Airlines typically close their gates 60 minutes before departure for international flights.

If you arrive later than this, even if just a few minutes, the check-in counters may already be closed.

This means no opportunity to drop off your baggage, leading to potential delays in your travel plans, or worse, missing your flight entirely.

Unexpected Delays En Route to the Airport

Traffic jams, delayed airport shuttles, and long lines at security checkpoints are common and can vary greatly in duration.

A buffer of three hours allows you to navigate these unpredictabilities without panic.

For example, what if the parking shuttle is late, or you’re caught in a sudden traffic snarl within the airport terminals?

Such delays can eat into your buffer quickly, transforming what should have been a smooth start into a stressful race against the clock.

Limited Flight Schedules

In destinations like Punta Cana, where the number of outbound flights can be limited, missing your scheduled departure can mean there are no alternative flights on the same day.

Depending on the airline and the season, you might find yourself having to book an expensive last-minute flight with another carrier or, in some cases, postponing your trip to the next available flight—which could be the next day.

The Bottom Line

Arriving three hours early might seem like a significant time investment, especially when you’re eager to get your vacation started or return home.

However, this practice is essential to ensuring that you don’t find yourself stranded or facing unexpected overnight accommodations and changes in travel plans.

It’s not just about checking in; it’s about ensuring a stress-free start to your travels, giving you time to enjoy a coffee, browse the shops, and enter vacation mode long before your plane takes off.

Peace and Love,

DreamPort Team