We have two flights booked while we are in Europe. First, Naples to Athens by easyJet. Second, Athens to Zurich by Swiss Air. Should we check in 2 hours in advance, like in USA, or are check in times less or more in Europe? Thank you!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23547 posts
You have the same problems in Europe as you do in the US - security, check-in, etc. If a smaller airport, then times can be shorter because of lower volume. Some of the airlines follow a 45 min prior to departure cut off when you have to be checked in. That is more common than in the US.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
Based on your earlier posts, I understand that these are separate flights, with a stay in Athens, not a connection plan in one day. That's good, so that you don't have to worry about delays or luggage transfers at Athens.
Posted by
Basel, Switzerland
8889 posts
It varies by airline, look what it says on your ticket, booking confirmation or boarding pass.
- For Easyjet, yes, definately aim for 2 hours before the flight. And, make sure you print out your boarding pass before you get to the airport and bring it with you. You can print it out as soon as you have made the booking. Also make sure you have the correct number of checked in bags on the ticket. Extra check-in bags at the airport costs money.
- For Swissair, the check-in time is probably less, but look at your booking confirmation.
Posted by
San Francisco
1008 posts
Also something I wasn't prepared for - when traveling Barcelona to Rome at the check in counter they asked for my flight information for leaving Italy. I had everything else printed out except for that - but I did look it up on my phone.
My Munich - Barcelona flight, no one asked that. Not sure the difference, but you might just be prepared with all of your flight info in case you need it.
Kim
Posted by
OP
Colorado
67 posts
Thanks everyone. Yes, Laurie, these are separate flights on separate days. I will shoot for 2 hours before. I am a stickler for paperwork. I will have everything except the kitchen sink on my Galaxy.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
Naples is one of the airports that Easyjet use where you can just use your mobile phone or iPad - download the free Easyjet app and save your boarding pass on that, so you do not have to print any boarding passes out. I used this recently and it works well.
I do not know Naples airport, but for most Easyjet flights from other European airports, you can usually get away with less than 2 hours, particularly if you have pre-checked in online or only have hand luggage. Leave at least 1.5 hours. Not sure if it would take longer if you are not from the EU.