When we knew we wanted to travel to Florida this winter, we started close to home on our search for flights at Harrisburg International Airport. You know their commercials -- save money, distance, and time -- and that's exactly what we wanted to do!
Here's a look at the benefits we appreciate when flying out of HIA, especially with young children.
It's close to home.
I rate this first because it was so great for our family, who lives in eastern Lebanon County, to be able to make a short drive one exit down on the turnpike and arrive at HIA in less than an hour. Especially if you have an early departure or a late arrival, you'll appreciate a shorter drive with less traffic compared to having to travel to Philadelphia or Baltimore.
It's a small terminal.
When you get dropped off at the terminal, it's just a quick trip up the steps to security and then just a short walk (less than five minutes) to even the farthest gate. If you're managing a carry-on, or a stroller, or a young toddler, this is something that's a huge bonus!
Smaller terminal also means fewer flights, fewer people, and shorter security lines!
The terminal is also very clean with plenty of seating, including along large windows where your Mini Macaronis can enjoy watching the planes taking off and landing.
There's a Starbucks.
HIA recently completed an expansion of its food options at the terminal. In addition to a Starbucks and two sit-down restaurants, there is a Subway, Dunkin Donuts, and Auntie Anne's that allow you to give the kids a quick snack if you have time before you board.
Long-term parking is affordable and it works.
Knowing that we would be away for more than a week, we opted for long-term economy parking at HIA ($9.50/day). Just about a mile from the terminal, there is a shuttle that will take you to/from the airport. Both upon our departure and arrival, there was a shuttle waiting for us each time. The driver was friendly and can provide assistance with luggage if you need it (again helpful if you are also trying to manage little ones!).
Allegiant flies out of Harrisburg.
If you're planning on a vacation to Florida or select cities, I recommend looking into Allegiant Air. For a family of four, we booked round-trip, non-stop tickets for a total of about $600. Now, we flew into Sanford, slightly north of Orlando International Airport, and we did not have to check luggage, so that kept our costs lower, too.
In addition to the flight we selected, there are non-stop flights to 11 other cities out of HIA across five airlines. See them all on their website.
For more information on traveling out of Harrisburg, visit www.FlyHIA.com.
