Known for its accessibility and convenient location, Bradley International Airport (BDL) is in the middle of north Central Connecticut. BDL is conveniently located close to Hartford (CT) and Springfield (Western Mass), with both locations just 20-25 mins drive away from the airport. Bradley airport is also a perfect choice for traveling to the wonderful cities of Boston and New York with the cities being less than a two-hour drive away from the airport.
If you are planning on traveling through BDL airport this summer, here are 5 tips when traveling through Bradley International Airport to make your travel easier.
Prepare the necessary documents
Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport, boarding pass, and any required visas. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States. Having these documents readily accessible will streamline your check-in and security processes.
Don’t forget to check the travel information
Confirm your flight with your airline and check in online before leaving home. Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, stay up to date on information about pre-clearing US customs and immigration prior to your flight’s departure. The US Preclearance (USCBP) facility is located in Terminal 2 and is a purpose-built facility that allows US-bound travellers to complete all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections prior to departure.
It is highly beneficial for travellers arriving in the US as they are classified as domestic arrivals, which means that once at Bradley International Airport you can pick up your baggage and depart for your final destination.
Additionally, onward-connecting travellers in the United States benefit from having their bags checked through to their final destination.
Decide on whether you need cash for your trip
While Bradley International Airport does not have a foreign currency exchange, withdrawing cash at the BDL airport has become more convenient with six Webster Bank ATM machines located within Terminal A at the airport. If you are on the baggage claim floor or on the ticketing floor level, you will be able to find ATM machines on both floors. Four ATMs are also placed in the concourse, after security.
Additionally, Bradley provides two reverse-ATM machines known as readyStations. As airlines have stopped accepting cash for ticket purchases and baggage fees, these readyStations are extremely helpful to turn cash into credit on a prepaid readyCard.
Know your ground transportation options once in the US
Bradley Airport offers a range of ground transportation options, ensuring seamless connectivity to surrounding areas. Passengers can choose from car rental services, taxis, ride-sharing services, and hotel shuttles. Additionally, the airport provides easy access to and from Hartford via CT Transit bus service. Bus service is also available to nearby train stations, offering connectivity throughout Connecticut, into Western Massachusetts and into New York City.
Explore amenities and services by BDL
Bradley International Airport offers various amenities and services to enhance your travel experience. Take the time to explore the airport’s facilities, including dining options, shops, lounges, free Wi-Fi, and transportation options. Familiarize yourself with the airport’s layout using maps available online or within the terminal to easily locate services you may need prior to your return flight and journey home.
Did you know Bradley International Airport is New England’s second largest airport? The nationally recognized airport offers more than 35 nonstop destinations, including service to and from Dublin on Aer Lingus.