The age-old question! Essentially it all comes down to how you like to travel.
Some people like the time to get through security and enjoy a pre-flight refreshment, maybe browse duty-free, while others like to arrive, go through security, and straight to the gate.
However there are a few things to consider, most importantly the time your airline's check-in desk opens.
One of the first things to think about is how you are getting to the airport. Are you being dropped-off? Are you parking? Getting the bus or tram?
This will impact your journey time so plan ahead, check with your provider for any route or network issues, and allow yourself plenty time to get here.
If you haven’t checked-in online we suggest you do if you can, and if you have luggage that needs to go into the hold look at when your airline's check-in desk opens for your flight.
Word of advice. Time your arrival at the airport for this opening - don't arrive too early!
We know that sounds silly but there’s no point being here at 0400 if your check-in desk opens at 0600 as it'll only mean a longer wait for you and others.
There's no harm in factoring in some additional time but there’s no need to be here hours before you have to be.
Different airlines open their check-in desks at different times, so it's always best to check this before the day of your flight.
While some open their desks up to four hours before flight times, others do so two hours ahead of departure.
Desks and times can vary, and are subject to change by the airline.
After check-in it’s time to head to security and we know that’s one of the areas people can become a bit flustered, especially if it’s the first time going through for a while.
It’s an important part of the whole journey as we need to make sure passengers and staff are safe so the checks we carry out are crucial – but we can help you prepare, which in turn means you help us keep wait times down.
A lot of the rules have been in place for a long time but just remind yourself of them before you get here so you are ready.
Liquids need to be under 100ml, removed from your hand luggage, and put in a clear bag. Then pop this in the tray.
Large electricals like laptops and tablets need to come out your bag and go in a tray with nothing covering them.
Empty your pockets, and take your belt off.
Thank you for your patience and understanding, and for being kind to our staff who are all working incredibly hard!
For some families, particularly those with young children, arriving at the airport for a flight can be quite daunting.
However it shouldn't be a stressful experience, and we're always on hand to help with whatever you need.
(Don't forget - we've got a dedicated family lane at security.)
If you're looking to pick up a pre-flight bargain or a holiday essential once you arrive at the airport then you're in luck.
We have an extensive selection of retail options on offer to passengers, selling everything from designer clothes and electronics to sunglasses and suitcases.
Find out what we've got on offer before and after security here.
All the latest information on shops, restaurants, lounges and car parking
All your pre-travel information, from hand luggage rules to check-in desk opening times
Here's a look at some of the things we're doing right now at Edinburgh Airport
Thinking about a holiday? Here you can find travel inspiration along with information on new routes
🧳| Remember to prepare for security. All liquids need to be under 100ml, removed from your hand luggage and put in one of the clear bags provided. Don't forget to take out large electricals like laptops and put them in the tray too.
