Summer is made for travel. In fact, it’s the most popular season for all those who live within the community to hop aboard a plane and go on an adventure, discover new places, or visit the people and places they love.
Winnipeg Richardson International Airport typically sees more passengers travel through the terminal between the end of the school year to September long weekend than any other time of the year. If you’re one of the tens of thousands of travellers packing their bags for a trip this summer, it’s important to prepare before arriving at YWG to help make your travel plans go smoothly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Know before you go
Be sure to check the travel requirements for all the countries on your itinerary, including those you’re connecting through, in advance of your trip as well as what you’ll need upon your return home if travelling internationally. You can confirm all the details on the Government of Canada’s website or by contacting your airline. It’s also good to double-check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport.
Pack smart
Learn what you can and can’t pack in your carry-on by visiting the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority’s website. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable one-litre bag. Also, don’t forget to weigh and measure your bags before leaving home to ensure it meets your airline’s luggage policies. By packing right, you’ll shorten your time at check-in counters and pre-board security screening checkpoints, as well as reduce your risk of having to leave items behind.
Plan your parking
Save time and money by pre-booking your airport parking online. CAA members also receive a discount when they enter their valid membership number. Winnipeg Transit, taxi companies, and ridesharing services can also deliver you to the terminal’s front door.
Go digital
Skip the line at the airline counters by checking in for your flight online at home and saving your boarding pass to your phone. If you’re heading to the U.S., you can submit your passport and customs declaration information in advance through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Mobile Passport Control app for a smoother experience through preclearance. International travellers returning home can also save time by using the Canada Border Services Agency’s ArriveCAN app up to 72 hours before flying into Canada.
Arrive early
Summer is a busy time at YWG, so you’ll likely encounter higher passenger volumes at peak times. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your boarding gate by arriving at the airport two hours before a domestic flight or three hours before taking off to a U.S. or international destination.
Have questions?
If you need help or directions at the airport, look for one of our friendly Goldwing Ambassadors in their easy-to-spot gold blazers. The team at our Information Desk, located in the Arrivals Hall near Door 3, is also ready to answer any questions you may have.
Have fun!
You’ve been dreaming and planning about this trip for a long time - enjoy it! We love seeing photos of people travelling through YWG. So don’t forget to tag us in any pictures you post on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
