Key travel tips for flying from Budapest to spare you a headache
This summer, passengers departing from Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport have a record choice of 136 international destinations.
The airport has been preparing since last autumn to ensure the safety and comfort of travellers during the busy peak season. With careful planning, passengers can also contribute to a stress-free airport experience, allowing their relaxation to begin right at the terminal.
Preparation and documentation
Katalin ValentÃnyi, Deputy CEO for Corporate Communications and Government Relations at Budapest Airport, emphasises that successful travel requires preparation not only from the airport and airlines but also from passengers.
The first step is to check the entry requirements for the destination country and to obtain all necessary documents well in advance. Essential identification papers such as ID cards, passports, visas, and any required vaccination certificates must be kept on hand throughout the journey and checked for validity before departure.
Baggage regulations
According to Infostart, it is advisable to familiarise oneself with the rules regarding carry-on and checked baggage. Liquids in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100 ml or less, all fitting into a single transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. The Budapest Airport website provides detailed lists of permitted and prohibited items. Passengers should pack items needed during the flight, such as documents, wallets, boarding passes, essential medicines, and for those travelling with infants, baby food and supplies, in their carry-on luggage.
Health and safety recommendations
ValentÃnyi stresses that passengers should only travel if they are healthy. There have been cases of passengers flying shortly after surgery, which is not recommended. The airline staff may request medical certificates at the airport, so travellers should be prepared for such checks.
Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated with non-alcoholic drinks, primarily water, before and during the flight. Budapest Airport provides 13 drinking fountains where passengers can refill bottles after security checks. Items with creamy or paste-like consistency, such as cosmetics, liver pâté, or baby food, count as liquids and are subject to the same restrictions.
Facilities for families
For families with young children, the airport offers seven baby and mother rooms across terminals A and B. These rooms provide facilities for diaper changing, feeding, and resting with infants. Parents can find a comfortable and private space to care for their children before boarding.
Arrival time and airport procedures
Passengers are advised to arrive at least two and a half hours before their flight to allow sufficient time for baggage drop-off, security screening, and relaxation before boarding.
Due to the high volume of travellers—up to 60,000 daily during the summer peak—it is recommended to enter the terminal without companions to avoid congestion. For flights outside the Schengen area, passport control can cause longer queues, so arriving three hours early is advisable in these cases.
Online check-in and self-service options
To save time and money, passengers can complete check-in and parking reservations online before arriving at the airport. Those travelling with checked baggage can use the airport’s self-service baggage drop-off system, which is available several hours before the check-in counters open during peak times.
The system allows passengers to print their own bag tags or receive assistance from staff, then place their luggage on the designated conveyor belt. The airport has 39 self-service kiosks across terminals A and B to facilitate this process.
Security screening tips
ValentÃnyi recommends monitoring the security screening queues on the airport’s display boards to choose the faster lane between terminals A and B, as both lead to the same departure gates. Security personnel may ask passengers to show the contents of any bottles or containers at any time.
Lost items and assistance
If passengers lose any belongings, they can report them by phone or email. For issues like delayed or lost baggage, the responsible ground handling companies should be contacted, as they have contractual relationships with the airlines. The Budapest Airport website provides comprehensive information on parking options, health services, and other passenger support.
Terminal access and parking
Budapest airport will soon reopen the renovated curbside area at the departures level, allowing vehicles to drive up to the terminal entrance. The resurfaced area includes updated traffic regulations to enhance passenger safety on both the arrivals and departures sides.
A five-minute free drive-through is available on both levels, making it convenient for quick pick-ups and drop-offs. Parking facilities remain open, and online booking is recommended to secure the most convenient spots close to the terminals.
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