MileHacker Logo
How to Get to El Paso

How to Get to El Paso

El Paso Texas, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

El Paso International Airport (ELP) is the main air gateway, located approximately 10 miles (16 km) northeast of downtown. It has a compact, easy-to-navigate terminal.

Flight Details

  • Major U.S. Carriers: American, Delta, Southwest, United, Alaska, Frontier, Allegiant Air serve ELP.
  • Typical Routes: Direct connections from major U.S. Airline hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Houston (IAH/HOU), Phoenix (PHX), Denver (DEN), Atlanta (ATL), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD/MDW).
  • International Flights: ELP has no direct international flights from major global hubs outside North America. International travelers typically connect through an U.S. Gateway airport.

Flight Availability & Facilities

Flight prices tend to be higher during peak travel periods like Spring Break (March), the Summer months (June-August), Thanksgiving week (November), and the Christmas/New Year holiday period (December). Booking well in advance is recommended.

Airport Amenities

  • Off-peak: Lower fares during off-peak periods like January, February (excluding holidays), late August, and early September.
  • Airport Facilities: On-site car rental agencies, various dining options, and retail stores. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
  • Transfer Options: Uber and Lyft services, taxis, hotel shuttles, rental cars, and Sun Metro public bus routes operate from the airport.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Lyft are available from ELP. Look for designated pick-up zones. These are convenient and often cost-effective options.

Taxis

Taxi stands are outside baggage claim. Taxis operate on metered rates. Expect approximately $20-$30 for a trip to downtown.

Hotel Shuttles

Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from ELP. Check with your accommodation prior to arrival to arrange a pickup.

Car Rentals

Requirements

  • Minimum Age: The minimum age to rent a car in the U.S. Is 21. Renters under 25 may incur an additional "underage driver" fee.
  • Driver's License: A valid driver's license from your home country is standard. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English.
  • Credit Card: A major credit card in the renter's name is standard for the security deposit and payment. Debit cards may be accepted with stricter requirements.
  • Major Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty all have rental counters at El Paso International Airport.

Driving Rules

  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed Limits: Posted speed limits are enforced. Speeds are typically in miles per hour (mph).
  • Right Turn on Red: Generally permitted after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it.
  • Cell Phone Use: Texas has laws against texting while driving. Hands-free devices are recommended for calls.

Other Land Transport

Border Crossings

El Paso shares a direct border with Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Several international bridges connect the two cities. Wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours.

Train Services

Amtrak serves El Paso, a stop on the Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle routes. The historic El Paso Union Depot is downtown. Service runs a few times per week.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound is a major long-distance bus service. FlixBus provides intercity travel. The El Paso Greyhound Bus Station is downtown, a central hub for arrivals and departures.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure for a stress-free exit from El Paso. No specific exit fees or taxes are collected directly from travelers departing the U.S. Beyond what is typically in your ticket price.

Timing & Security

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at El Paso International Airport (ELP) at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before your scheduled domestic departure.
  • International Connections: If your flight from ELP connects to an international flight from another U.S. City, plan to arrive at ELP 2-3 hours before your departure.
  • Security: Standard TSA (Transportation Security Administration) security procedures apply. Expedited screening programs like TSA PreCheck are available for eligible travelers.

Airport/Station Facilities

El Paso International Airport (ELP) has dining options, shops for souvenirs, restrooms, and charging stations for electronic devices. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Amenities

  • Airport (ELP): Restaurants, cafes, snack bars, retail stores for last-minute needs.
  • Amtrak/Bus Stations: Basic waiting areas, restrooms, and often limited amenities like vending machines or small snack shops.
  • Check-in: For Amtrak train departures or long-distance bus services, arrive at the station at least 30-60 minutes before departure.

Self-Driving

A valid driver's license is needed. For U.S. Citizens, a state-issued license. For foreign nationals, your valid home country's driver's license is often accepted for up to one year in Texas.

Requirements

  • Valid driver's license is needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as a translation, especially if your license is not in English.
  • A major credit card in the renter's name is standard for the security deposit and payment for rental cars.
  • You also need vehicle registration and proof of insurance for your vehicle.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways, like Interstate 10 (I-10), are well-maintained. Local roads are generally good. Road construction is common, so be aware of potential detours or delays.

Road Safety

  • Dust Storms: Be aware of occasional dust storms (haboobs), especially in spring and summer, which can severely reduce visibility.
  • Traffic: Can be heavy during peak commute times (morning and late afternoon), especially on I-10 through the city and near border crossings.
  • Parking: Generally available in downtown and at attractions, but you may need to use metered street parking or paid parking garages/lots. Many businesses outside downtown offer free parking.

Traveler's Note

Check real-time border wait times through the CBP Border Wait Times app or website if planning a cross-border trip to Ciudad Juárez.

← Previous
What to Pack for El Paso
← Back to El Paso
Next →
Getting Around El Paso

Next Up: Getting Around El Paso. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around El Paso