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Airport Travel Tips for Flying to Myrtle Beach: What Tourists Should Know

Myrtle Beach Airport lit in blue at dusk with crescent moon visible.

Planning a coastal getaway to Myrtle Beach or the Grand Strand? For many travelers, the journey begins in the air and ends at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) — the region’s primary travel hub. Whether you’re visiting for beaches, fishing charters, eco tours, or waterfront dining, a little preparation before and after your flight can make your vacation start smoothly.

This guide covers practical airport travel tips for tourists flying to Myrtle Beach, from departing your home airport to navigating MYR once you land.

Tips Before You Leave Your Home Airport

A stress-free trip to Myrtle Beach begins long before arrival. Preparing at your departure airport can help you avoid delays and start your vacation on the right foot.

Check In Early and Track Your Flight

Most airlines allow online or mobile check-in 24 hours before departure, giving you the opportunity to:

  • Access your boarding pass 
  • Confirm or change seating 
  • Receive real-time flight notifications 

Downloading your airline’s app helps you monitor gate changes, delays, and boarding updates — especially useful during busy travel seasons.

Pack Smart for a Coastal Vacation

Packing strategically helps ensure you’re ready for Myrtle Beach weather and airport security requirements.

Carry-on essentials:

  • Swimsuit or change of clothes 
  • Sunscreen (3.4 oz or less) 
  • Travel documents and chargers 
  • Medications 

Checked baggage tips:

  • Clearly label luggage 
  • Pack beachwear, sandals, hats, and light clothing 
  • Avoid overpacking bulky items available locally 

Pro tip: Keep one outfit in your carry-on in case checked baggage is delayed.

Understand TSA Security Guidelines

Security wait times vary depending on airport size and season, so plan to arrive:

  • About 2 hours early for domestic flights 
  • Earlier during peak travel periods 

Helpful reminders include:

  • Follow liquid restrictions 
  • Remove electronics if required 
  • Wear easily removable shoes 
  • Empty pockets before screening 

Frequent travelers may benefit from TSA PreCheck for faster screening.

Plan Transportation to Your Departure Airport

Before heading out, confirm how you’ll get there:

  • Reserve airport parking if available 
  • Compare rideshare vs parking costs 
  • Schedule drop-offs ahead of time 

Allow extra time for traffic, parking, and shuttle transport to the terminal.

Prepare for In-Flight Comfort

Simple preparation can make travel more enjoyable:

  • Bring snacks and a reusable water bottle 
  • Download entertainment beforehand 
  • Pack a travel pillow for longer flights 
  • Dress comfortably 

Arriving rested helps you jump straight into vacation activities.

Schedule Your Arrival Day Wisely

When booking flights, consider arrival timing that allows for:

  • Rental car pickup 
  • Hotel check-in 
  • Travel to Murrells Inlet or other destinations 
  • A buffer before scheduled excursions 

Earlier arrivals give you more flexibility to begin exploring immediately.

Arriving at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)

Myrtle Beach International Airport is known for its manageable size and easy navigation, making it a convenient entry point for tourists visiting the South Carolina coast.

Transportation From MYR

The airport is located close to many popular destinations:

  • Murrells Inlet — about 30 minutes 
  • North Myrtle Beach — about 35 minutes 
  • Pawleys Island — about 40 minutes 

Available transportation options include:

  • Rental cars 
  • Taxis and rideshares 
  • Hotel shuttles 
  • Private car services 

Tip: Renting a vehicle offers flexibility for exploring the Grand Strand beyond beachfront areas.

Airport Layout and Amenities

Visitors appreciate MYR for its straightforward layout, which typically includes:

  • Consolidated ticket counters and security checkpoints 
  • Clearly marked baggage claim areas 
  • Dining and shopping options 
  • Airport information services 

Its smaller scale often means less walking and shorter navigation times compared to larger airports.

Pickup and Drop-Off Tips

If meeting friends or family at the airport:

  • Use the free cell phone waiting lot until passengers arrive 
  • Utilize curbside loading zones for quick pickup 
  • Choose short-term parking if greeting inside 

Planning ahead prevents congestion and confusion during arrival.

Start Your Myrtle Beach Vacation Right Away

Once you land, you’re minutes away from beaches, marshlands, and coastal attractions. Many visitors head south toward Murrells Inlet to experience boating, wildlife viewing, or fishing opportunities along the inlet.

Excursions through Crazy Sister Marina provide a convenient way to transition from travel mode to vacation mode — offering dolphin watching, fishing charters, parasailing, and eco tours that showcase the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.

Planning your airport arrival with these activities in mind ensures you maximize your time on the water.

Final Travel Tips for Flying to Myrtle Beach

  • Check in early and track flights 
  • Pack strategically for beach travel 
  • Arrive at security with plenty of time 
  • Plan transportation on both ends of your trip 
  • Schedule arrival with activities in mind 

With thoughtful preparation, flying to Myrtle Beach can be smooth and convenient — allowing you to focus on enjoying everything the Grand Strand has to offer from the moment you land.

 

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