reflection of LAX sign at the International Airport, with columns of pink and blue

Everything you need to know about traveling to LAX and getting around the airport.

In this guide:

Arriving & Checking In

Facilities & Services

Arriving & Checking In

Address: LAX Airport 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045

How early to arrive at LAX for domestic flights?

When flying through Los Angeles to other cities in the United States, the time you arrive at the airport will depend on when you’re flying out. Most airports recommend arriving at least two hours before your flight. If your flight is between 6:30- 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and 8:00-11:00 p.m., you’ll be traveling during peak times.

You’ll want to arrive at the airport a little earlier than normal to account for the extra busy lines. If you’d like to get estimates based on past wait times, you can download the MyTSA app from the Apple Store or from the Google Play store.

How early to arrive at LAX for international flights?

If you’re flying out of LAX to catch an international flight, the commonly recommended time to arrive at the airport is least three hours before your flight. Flying between 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. or 8:00-11:00 p.m.? You’ll want to have a little bit of extra buffer time for the flight as these are the LAX international travel peak times. Additionally, if you want to gain a better sense of what wait times will be like, you can also check the MyTSA app as well.

As one of the busiest airports in the world, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can be a daunting place to navigate. For more information read our blog on how early to arrive at LAX before your departure.

How early to check your bags?

Checking bags at the Los Angeles International Airport? The allowed check-in time will vary depending on the airline you take. For example, if you’re checking in with a bag through Delta at LAX, you’ll want to check in at least 30 minutes before your flight. For international flights, the recommended time is 1 hour before your flight. The specifics will change depending on the airline and the airport.

What time is security/TSA open?

Although LAX is open 24/7, the actual terminals only operate from 4 a.m. to 1 a.m., depending on the terminal. According to the official LAX site, the operational hours for the check-in desks and security for each terminal are below:

  • LAX Terminal 1: Operation Hours: 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
  • LAX Terminal 2: Operation Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
  • LAX Terminal 3: Operation Hours: 4:15 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
  • LAX Terminal 4: Operation Hours: 4:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
  • LAX Terminal 5: Operation Hours: 4:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
  • LAX Terminal 6: Operation Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
  • LAX Terminal 7: Operation Hours: 4:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
  • Tom Bradley International Airport South: Operation Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
  • Tom Bradley International Airport North: Operation Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.

If you’ll be flying with children help make your experience from pre-planning to departure stress-free, by reading our tips on navigating LAX Airport with kids.

Facilities & Services

Traveling With The Stars

LAX is one of the most exciting airports in the world. Where else are you as likely to see a celebrity or an international rockstar. Yet, like any other travel hub, LAX has its positives and negatives. In this article we’ll take a quick look at the good, the bad and the ugly.

What Makes LAX Great?

LAX provides an exemplary concern for passenger safety. Police are readily visible, and K-9 dogs are often employed. Recently, LAX installed several full body scanners to prevent contraband from entering the terminals. Furthermore, firemen are always available to handle any unexpected flames.

LAX is a very busy airport, but there are many hidden coves where you can escape the crowd. It has a wide selection of open space for overnight travelers who need to get some rest. You can also see a huge variety of aircraft sitting out on the tarmac. This airport tends to be a popular spot for pro or amateur photographers due to its breathtaking views, such as the panoramic scenery at the Encounter Restaurant.

Fun Times at LAX and Airport Wifi

By far the best place to hang out while at LAX is the international terminal, called the Tom Bradley Terminal. Here, you can connect to Wi-Fi with your wireless device, and lay around in a spacious area. LAX airport has free Wi-Fi available in all of the public areas. The Wi-Fi service is available in 45-minute increments after a 30-second advertisement. You will have to sign in again after each 45-minute session, but there is no limit on sessions. The LAX network is called _LAX Free WiFi.

As mentioned, this terminal has a lot of free space. However, you’ll have no problem finding a place to kick back and relax, as numerous seating options are available. Additionally, the large windows provide some great scenery to help you relax during stressful travel times. The Tom Bradley area is also known as the hot spot for restaurants and bars. For your convenience, you can access this area from other terminals without even having to go through another TSA check.

You Must Eat Here

LAX undeniably has some of the best airport food you’ll find anywhere. Gladstone’s 4 Fish is a well-known Malibu eating spot. This restaurant has a station at LAX which offers a uniquely concocted clam chowder, and mouthwatering fish and chips.

Health conscious travelers who want to stay on track while at the airport should check out Real Food Daily in Terminal 4. This airport eatery serves plant-based dishes and would be an ideal spot for vegans. You can grab a plate of “No Huevos” Rancheros for breakfast and top it off with some organic sweet greens juice.

Ford’s Filling Station is owned by actor Harrison Ford’s son, and can be found in Terminal 5. One of its most popular offerings is the BLTA sandwich: bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. This airport diner is also known for some delicious tacos.

Discover more of the best LAX restaurants by Terminal in our recent blog.

What lounges are at LAX?

There are a range of lounges across the different terminals at LAX Airport. Some are linked to an airline and others are available to book. We take an in-depth look into all the different offerings in our LAX Lounges Guide.

LAX Wheelchair Services

LAX is dedicated to offering an excellent travel experience for all passengers which includes providing a range of accessibility services and facilities to help passengers navigate the airport. Find out how to get a wheelchair at LAX Airport in our accessibility guide.

Main photo:

Wonderlane – Unsplash