10 Tips for a Seamless Winter Travel Journey Through YVR

Check in to your flight in advance through the airline’s website or app and confirm you’ve selected the correct check-in details such as preferred seat and number of check-in bags. Also be sure to measure your carry-on bags so they meet airline requirements. Ensure you have all your required travel documents in good standing and airline approved baggage including:  

• Unexpired Passport/ID
• Airline reservation
• Bag specifications
• Prep and check any paperwork required at your destination
• Luggage that meets the airlines' baggage size and weight requirements

For carry-on bags, make sure your follow the 100mL restriction on liquids, gels, and aerosols, and keep them together in a clear, 1L, resealable bag. Passengers travelling Domestically through YVR can leave large electronics, such as laptops, and small amounts of liquids in their bags during pre-boarding screening for a faster screening experience.

Leave holiday gifts unwrapped in the event the item needs to be inspected.  More information on what is allowed through security can be found on the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) website. Once post-security, Hudson, located in U.S. and Domestic departure terminals, offers gift wrap by donation. 

Also, label all your valuables and belongings, including loose items like hats and scarves, with your name and contact information in case you forget something at the airport.

Know how you're getting to the airport with plenty of time before your flight or pre-book parking at yvr.ca/parking ahead of your trip to reserve a spot at the best rate. 

You can also take an Evo Car Share and drop it off at Templeton Station. Canada Line is another fast and convenient option, taking approximately 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver to YVR.

Before you leave your house, ensure you have all your tech set up for your travel journey including:

• Signing up for Digital ID, if you're travelling with Air Canada
• Downloading your digital boarding pass
• Bookmarking YVR's Operational Snapshot for the most up-to-date info on security wait times, parkade capacity and more

Many factors such as weather and delays at other airports can impact flight schedules. Check the status of your flight at yvr.ca before you leave home. Passengers are encouraged to arrive two hours before domestic and three hours before international flights.

Upon arrival at the airport, follow signs throughout YVR to navigate your way to your airline check-in counter, bag drop, security, and gate. If you have questions, keep an eye out for YVR Guest Experience team members or Green Coat volunteers stationed throughout the terminal.

Take a moment to rest and refuel with a taste of B.C. If you’re travelling within Canada, visit the newly opened Hangar 49 Tap & Tavern for West Coast cuisine and local craft beer. For flights to the U.S., stop by Romer’s Fresh Kitchen & Bar for award-winning burgers and classic comfort food before boarding. With more than 35 dining options, YVR offers full-service restaurants and convenient grab-and-go favorites for your taste and dietary preferences.

Forgot someone on your shopping list? YVR is home to a wide range of shops to find the perfect gift before you take off. If you’re travelling internationally, you can purchase products from Duty-Free before you board. A variety of amenities like nursing rooms and Mamava pods, wellness services and quiet spaces are also available to make your pre-boarding experience as comfortable as possible.

Before boarding, confirm your accommodation and transportation plan for when you arrive

If you lose something on your journey, file a lost item report on YVR’s website or with your airline. If you find something at YVR, return the item to any information desk, a Green Coat volunteer or designated Lost and Found Drop Box located throughout the terminal.