TAMPA, Fla. — Leaders with Tampa International Airport are getting ready for another busy holiday travel season following a record-breaking Thanksgiving last month.
Altogether, the airport is expecting around 80,000 passengers per day during the three-week-long Christmas and New Year's holiday period.
"The two heaviest days are expected to be the Saturday before and the Saturday after the Christmas holiday, when more than 90,000 passengers will travel through TPA, and the weekend after New Year's Day will also be extremely busy," TPA leaders wrote online.
Similar to the issue during the Thanksgiving holiday, TPA's parking garages are expected to reach full capacity during peak hours. With this in mind, travelers are urged to buy parking in advance online.
According to airport leaders, some garages will close at some times which would force travelers without reservations to be bumped to alternative lots. All drivers with reservations "will be guaranteed a parking spot."
Here are some tips from TPA to make the "busiest times of the year a more smooth ride for all travelers."
Plan ahead for parking
As mentioned above, the parking garages at TPA could reach full capacity at several points throughout the holiday season.
Passengers are encouraged to book parking online before setting off to the airport. There are discounted prices offered for the short-term, long-term and economy garages.
"Online bookings also help TPA anticipate demand and manage its garage space availability, prioritizing those who have reservations," airport leaders wrote online.
Choose express
The Blue Express Curbsides are an easy alternative to the normal departure and arrival curbs that bring people in and out of the main terminal at TPA.
"Drivers can follow the signage to Blue Express for a much less crowded drop-off and pick-up experience," airport leaders explain online.
Anyone waiting on ride-share apps can be picked up from the Blue Express Curbsides as well.
"Passengers on the Red Side – where the Red Express Curbsides are currently under construction – can meet their Uber or Lyft outside of the Red baggage claim area," the airport explains.
Arrive early
With large crowds expected for holiday travel, Tampa International Airport advises travelers to get to the airport earlier to beat longer lines and unanticipated delays.
Getting to TPA about two hours before departure, or three if traveling internationally, is reportedly the safest plan.
Check your pockets
Bringing jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy, bottles of wine or other holiday treats? Those items are commonly confiscated at TSA checkpoints, according to TPA leaders.
Other things taken include knives or guns.
"To keep things flowing smoothly through screening, be sure to check your pockets and carry-on luggage before leaving the house," airport leaders wrote online.
Click here to read more tips about holiday travel on Tampa International Airport's website.