Travel Guide To Saint Louis, Missouri International Airport Arriving In Saint Louis, Missouri International Airport Travel Tips

July 28, 2025

To ensure a smooth arrival at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), it is recommended to arrive at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours for international flights. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and navigating the airport. The airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, but the TSA and airlines are independent of the airport and their hours may vary.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours early to accommodate additional security and customs checks.
Security Screening: The average wait time to get through security can vary, but it is typically up to ten minutes. During peak hours, which are early mornings (around 5 AM to 8 AM) and late afternoons to evenings (from about 4 PM to 7 PM), wait times may be longer.

Documents: Ensure you have a valid form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport, for domestic travel. For international travel, a valid passport is essential, and it should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date.
Luggage: Check the weight of your luggage as many airlines charge extra for bags over 50 lbs. Also, be sure to put any large liquids or gels in your checked bag.

Dining and Shopping: There are numerous options for dining and shopping at STL, including local wines and dishes at Missouri Vineyards.
Parking: There are seven different parking options at STL, with varying features and price points. Both terminals have large garage facilities within walking distance, while long-term lots are a shuttle bus ride away.
Transportation: The airport is located 12 miles northwest of St. Louis city centre, and the driving time from the airport to downtown St. Louis is about 20 minutes. Ground transport options include free shuttle services linking the two terminals every 8-15 minutes, 24/7.