How to Actually Navigate Las Vegas Airport
I’ve flown through Vegas more times than I can count, and here’s what nobody tells you: this airport is weirdly confusing for how straightforward it should be. Let me break down what you actually need to know.
The Terminal Situation
First thing – it’s called Harry Reid International now, but literally everyone still calls it McCarran. Don’t stress about the name.
There are two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Yes, there’s no Terminal 2. They demolished it when they built T3. Just go with it.
Terminal 1 has four concourses (A, B, C, D). Southwest and Delta mostly live here. Here’s the annoying part – Concourse D requires taking a little train after security. It’s not far, but budget an extra 5 minutes if that’s your gate.
Terminal 3 handles international flights plus some domestic carriers like Frontier. It’s newer and honestly nicer than T1. One concourse (E), its own customs area, the whole deal.
Need to get between terminals? There’s a shuttle. Takes about 10 minutes. If you’ve got a tight connection across terminals, you’ll want at least 90 minutes minimum.
Getting Out of There
Uber and Lyft work great here. Follow signs to the rideshare pickup – it’s at each terminal. During convention weeks the wait times can spike, but usually it’s under 10 minutes.
Taxis are available but honestly cost more than rideshare these days. The city bus exists if you’re on a budget and have time.
Parking
Both terminals have garages. Short-term is pricey (like $36/day pricey). The Economy Lot is cheaper and has shuttle service. If you’re picking someone up, just do the cell phone lot and have them text you when they’re at baggage claim.
Actually Useful Tips
- Sunday afternoons are brutal. Everyone leaves Vegas at once.
- Download the airport app – gate changes happen constantly
- TSA PreCheck lines exist but aren’t always faster during peak times
- Free WiFi throughout, works decently
- If you need to kill time, The Club lounge accepts Priority Pass
Arrive 2 hours early for domestic, 3 for international. Vegas airport gets crowded fast, especially around holidays and major events.
Recommended Aviation Gear
David Clark H10-13.4 Aviation Headset – $376.95
The industry standard for aviation headsets.
Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge – $25.42
Essential FAA handbook for every pilot.
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