return flight to Canada - what time should I be at airport??

[Jocelyne1stCruise]

Hello!

First timer here & have a quick question about the flight back. I'm going on an Eastern cruise & will disembark at around 8:30am. Our flight back to Winnipeg isn't until 8:20pm. Talk about a lot of time to kill! I've already booked a day room at the Hyatt so as to pass the time. I'm just wondering what time we should actually be at the airport with our luggage to check in? I'm thinking about 6pm but I really have no idea how long customs will take. What are your thoughts/suggestions?

Thanks in advance for your input!

Jocelyne

 

[minnie mum]

That should give you plenty of time. During busy times the security check at MCO can be really long and slow, so you'll need to account for that. Not sure when you're going to be there though. We always try to be at the check in counter at least 2 hours before any international flight.

ETA: FYI you won't pre-clear customs on the return flight. You'll do that at your destination airport, or at least the first Canadian airport (if you change planes in Toronto, for example).

 

[BLBCB]

When are you cruising?

 

[mtmbyck]

Weekends are busy at Orlando international. It's a lovely airport so being there with a few hours to kill for dinner or last minute gift shopping isn't too bad. Minniemum is right, you do customs in Canada when you land. I would arrive at airport 6pm latest. Maybe 5 if you want to sit and eat something and browse.

 

[dsneygirl]

We usually aim for 2-2.5 hours. We have waited in some horrendous line ups at security.

 

[Polydweller]

We give 90 minutes to 2 hours and have been fine though two hours is better. No customs in Orlando, that happens in Canada.

 

[Jocelyne1stCruise]

When are you cruising?

We'll be on the Magic from Jan 28 - Feb 4!! Only 9 more sleepss!! It's now -36 in the Peg today so this trip won't come soon enough!

Thanks for all the advice everyone! I'll make sure I'm there 2 1/2 hrs ahead of time

Cheers!
J.