Las Vegas’ primary airport and one of the busiest airports in the west of the country is Harry Reid International Airport, which changed its name in 2021 but which is still referred to by many travelers as McCarran. Due to the fact that this airport is comprised of two independent terminals, it will help to know exactly what and how you have to check in at the airport. In this article, we will cover information on terminal specifics, check-in process, arrival schedule, baggage check-in, and much more.
Understanding the LAS Terminal Layout
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) consists of two passenger terminals, which are Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Terminal 2 does not exist anymore as it was closed after the opening of Terminal 3, which happened back in 2012. The two terminals are not connected to each other, and each terminal has its own parking structure, check-in facilities, and baggage claim.
Gates are organized within concourses. Terminal 1 contains A, B, C, and D gates, while Terminal 3 contains D and E gates. The D gates are accessible from either terminal, which is why your check-in terminal may be different from your departure gate. What’s important about check-in is the terminal containing counters and luggage drops for your airline.
Which Terminal Is Your Airline In?
Terminal 1 is dedicated to domestic airlines, while Terminal 3 is mostly used by international airlines, with a number of domestic airlines as well. Airline changes are not uncommon; for instance, Sun Country Airlines has announced a switch from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1 in 2026, along with ticketing and baggage check facilities. Below is a helpful list, but please verify with your airline.
| Terminal | Commonly Associated Airlines | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Southwest, Allegiant, American, Delta, Sun Country | Mostly domestic flights |
| Terminal 3 | United, Alaska, JetBlue, Frontier, and many international airlines (for example KLM, Korean Air, British Airways, Condor) | International and some domestic flights |
There are some airlines that operate from both terminals, but depending on the particular flight, your ticket and boarding pass provide the most accurate information. It is possible to get this information on the official airport website, which will take no more than a minute to do.
Check-in Options at LAS
It is possible to check in in a number of ways, and the choice of the appropriate way will depend on your airline and whether you have any luggage. The policies regarding check-in differ across airlines, as well as the times when they open for check-in. The following list provides common check-in options at LAS:
- Online or mobile application check-in: Online check-ins are usually available 24 hours before departure time. You will be provided with a boarding pass for your mobile phone, and you can proceed without going through check-in counters if you don’t have any luggage.
- Self-service kiosks: Kiosks for checking in and printing your boarding pass as well as printing your luggage tags, are located in the ticketing area of both terminals.
- Airlines’ counters: It is best to visit these counters if you have special assistance needs, require document checks, or have questions regarding your flight.
- Curbside check-in: Curbside baggage drop is provided by some airlines at the departure level.
In case you perform check-in procedure online and have carry-on baggage only, you can head directly to security. In case you have luggage, you will need to drop it off at the counter, bag drop, or curbside.
How Early Should You Arrive?
As Las Vegas is a popular leisure airport, you can encounter lines very soon during peak periods like weekends, holidays, and conventions. A general recommendation is to arrive 2 hours prior to domestic flights and 3 hours prior to international flights. This is only a recommendation, not an official requirement for all airlines.
Please remember that the deadlines for check-in and baggage check-in differ among airlines, usually being from 45 to 60 minutes prior to the flight for domestic flights and more for international ones. In case you do not make it, you will not be able to check in, even though you may still be in the airport.
Baggage Drop and Documentation
After completing the check-in process, the next task is to drop off your bags and ensure your documents are organized. Ensuring all documents are ready before you get to the counter will help move the line more efficiently for yourself and those following you.
Ensure that you have the following documents within easy reach at the airport:
- Government-issued photo ID: This is needed when traveling domestically within the U.S. You should check the latest TSA guidance for acceptable forms of identification.
- Passport and visa (if applicable): Necessary for international travel.
- Booking confirmation or boarding pass: Either digital or printed form.
- Baggage requirements: Familiarize yourself with your airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Extra baggage fees may apply to oversized and overweight bags. Airlines also charge different baggage fees depending on your ticket fare. Pre-checking your luggage weight at home can save you time at the airport.
Traveling from One Terminal to Another
If you find yourself in the wrong terminal, don’t be alarmed. There are free shuttle services between Terminals 1 and 3 prior to security. After you get through security, there are trams connecting gate zones; the D gates can be reached from either terminal.
If you are carrying no baggage, you may get through security in one terminal and then take the tram to the gates where an airline check-in is located in another terminal. If you are carrying any bags, however, you have to go first to the check-in counter of your airline. Plan additional time for the shuttle ride if you realize that you are in the wrong building.
Tips for a Smooth Process When You Check-In
These simple things make a huge difference in a busy airport like LAS. They take only a couple of minutes to do prior to your departure.
Here is what you should think about before going to the airport:
- Confirm your terminal: Check your flight information or airline application the day before and also before you leave.
- Online check-in: It helps you save time and provides you with a mobile boarding pass.
- Pack correctly: Make sure your liquids, electronics, and travel documents are easily accessible for the security screening process.
- Arrange transportation: The airport is situated near the Strip, and it normally takes about 10 minutes to get there by car; however, on event days, the situation may differ because of the high traffic rate.
- Have some additional time: Particularly during the holiday season, weekends, and events held in Las Vegas.
Those travelers who require special services such as wheelchair assistance or traveling with small children should call their airlines in advance. Making these arrangements will give the staff the opportunity to prepare for this and will definitely make your check-in easier and much less stressful.
Conclusion
The check-in procedure at Harry Reid International Airport can be easily accomplished by following some basic steps. Knowing the terminal of your particular airline, selecting an appropriate check-in option for your flight, and having enough time to deal with luggage and security checks are all important factors. Airline companies may sometimes change their check-in procedures and terminals, so it is recommended to get the necessary information from the airline company and the official site of LAS airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. At LAS, there are two terminals for check-in: Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. They include ticketing/check-in, baggage claim, and parking facilities separately.
No. One needs to check in at his/her own terminal and drop the luggage off there. In case one is in the wrong terminal, there is a free shuttle between the terminals. Passengers without any baggage may clear security in Terminal 1 and use the train depending on the airline.
The online check-in usually opens 24 hours prior to the flight. But that varies, and it is best to check the airline’s website for details.
It is usually advised to be at least two hours early for a domestic flight and three hours for an international flight.
Curbside baggage drop is available only for some airlines; it is better to contact one’s airline in advance to find out if it is provided.