Toronto Pearson International Airport is Canada’s busiest airport, and the holidays are among its busiest times. Here’s how to make your trip smoother.
The busiest days
Expect the biggest crowds in the days just before Christmas and on the first weekend of January when people head home. In 2026, watch for heavy traffic around Friday, December 18 to Wednesday, December 23 and Saturday, January 2 to Sunday, January 3.
Arrival times
Follow your airline’s advice. As a general rule, aim for at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international and U.S. flights during the holidays.
Getting to Pearson
- UP Express: the train runs from Union Station to Terminal 1 in about 25 minutes, stopping at Bloor and Weston.
- TTC: the 900 Airport Express bus connects with Kipling station; check holiday schedules. See the TTC holiday schedule.
- Driving: book parking in advance; the holidays fill lots.
- Terminal Link train connects Terminals 1 and 3 and parking.
Winter weather
Snowstorms can cause delays and cancellations. Download your airline’s app, sign up for alerts and check flight status before you leave.
Packing tips
- Don’t wrap gifts in carry-on or checked bags; security may need to open them.
- Pack a warm layer in your carry-on. See what to pack.
Before you leave home
- Check in online 24 hours before your flight and download your boarding pass.
- Weigh your bags to avoid overweight fees and repacking at the counter.
- Pack medications, chargers and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case of delays.
- Check your terminal: Pearson has Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, and airlines are split between them.
- Sign up for flight alerts from your airline.
Security tips
- Liquids: follow the 100 ml rule for carry-ons, in a clear, resealable bag.
- Food gifts: solid foods like cookies and chocolate are fine in carry-ons, but jams, sauces and other spreadable items count as liquids.
- Wrapped gifts: wait to wrap, or use gift bags, in case security needs to look inside.
- Electronics: have laptops and large devices ready to remove if asked.
Flying to the U.S.
Pearson has U.S. preclearance, which means you clear U.S. customs and immigration in Toronto before you board. Allow extra time, especially during the holidays, and have your passport and any required documents ready.
If your flight is delayed or cancelled
- Rebook through your airline’s app, which is often faster than the counter line.
- Know your rights: Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations may entitle you to compensation or care, depending on the cause of the delay. Check the Canadian Transportation Agency’s website.
- Consider a nearby hotel if you’re stuck overnight; airport hotels fill up quickly during storms.
Picking someone up
Use the cell phone waiting lot rather than circling the terminals, and track the flight’s arrival time. Arrivals can be slow during the holidays, especially for international flights clearing customs.
Pearson at Christmas: FAQ
How early should I get to Pearson at Christmas? At least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international and U.S. flights, or follow your airline’s advice.
What’s the fastest way to Pearson from downtown? The UP Express from Union Station takes about 25 minutes.
