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Photo of two passengers in Terminal 2Tips for Traveling Through RDU

Below, find tips to make your travel through Raleigh-Durham International Airport easy and stress-free.

Security Screening Tips
The Transportation Security Administration screens RDU passengers. Visit the links below to learn more about the security checkpoints at RDU.

Other Screening Tips

  • Only ticketed passengers may pass through the security checkpoint. Limited exceptions are granted for minors traveling alone or passengers needing extra assistance. Airlines are responsible for granting these exceptions.
  • Bags may be hand searched at any time while at the airport.
  • Keep bags and personal items with you at all times.
  • Do not accept any items from someone you do not know and report any unattended items to airport or security personnel.
  • Airport Mailers operates kiosks at RDU's security checkpoints, which enables you to mail unpermitted items to any address for a fee.

Before You Travel
As you prepare for your flight, remember these tips:

  • Limit carry-on items to one bag and one personal item, such as a handbag or briefcase.
  • Clearly label all luggage.
  • Bring a government-issued ID. The name on your identification must match the name on the ticket. Check with your airline for child ID requirements.
  • Be aware of the TSA's 3-1-1 rule on liquids and gels when packing items.
  • Wait to wrap gifts until you arrive at your destination. Gifts may be unwrapped at the security checkpoint and during random security checks.
  • Keep luggage organized by layering items; this will increase visibility for the security officers.
  • Transporting firearms? Contact your airline for the correct procedure.

Arriving At RDU For Your Flight

  • Arrive at RDU at least two hours before domestic flights to allow for parking, airline check-in and security. International travelers should arrive four hours in advance.
  • As you drive into RDU, watch the electronic signs for information on parking availability. Signs will guide you to hourly, daily and Park & Ride lots.
  • The terminal curbs are only for cars loading or unloading passengers. Use hourly parking to accompany someone indoors.
  • Sports equipment, such as golf clubs, lacrosse sticks, tennis rackets and pool cues, must be checked as luggage.
  • Only ticketed passengers are permitted beyond the security checkpoint.

Meeting Someone?

  • Parking on the terminal curb is prohibited. Please use our free cell phone lot.
  • When the flight display says that a plane has arrived, keep in mind that it often takes about 5-10 minutes for your loved one to deplane and exit the security area.
  • Learn where the designated meeting areas are in each terminal.
  • When meeting someone in the terminal, choose hourly parking.

Traveling With Children

  • When traveling with children, please allow extra time for check in and proceeding through the security checkpoint.
  • Prepare children by explaining the security process ahead of time.
  • Children, as well as adults, must undergo screening.
  • All child-related equipment must either go through the x–ray machine or be inspected by a checkpoint screener.
  • Please contact your airline for ID requirements for children.
  • Airlines may grant permission for an adult to accompany a child traveling alone to the gate. Check with your airline for details.
  • Pack activities for children such as coloring books, crayons or reading material.

Traveling with Pets

  • Learn about traveling with service animals.
  • Check with your airline concerning their policies on traveling with pets.
  • Animals traveling in the passenger cabin must be screened at the security checkpoint.
  • You may walk your animal through the metal detector with you. If this is not possible, your animal will have to undergo a secondary screening, including a visual and physical inspection.
  • You may be asked to remove your animal from its carrier so that the carrier can be placed on the screening equipment.
  • Pet relief areas are located outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.