Drop off at LAS

Question

Never flown from LAS before.

At some airports I’ve occasionally dropped off my wife and luggage before dropping off the rental car and taking transportation back to the terminal myself.

Sometimes it’s not the best idea to do this.

In the UK for example we have to pay ££ to get anywhere near drop off zones outside of the terminal. Some countries require tickets be shown before entry to the terminal is allowed.

Anyone think of any downsides to doing this at LAS?

Answer

At Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), there are some factors to consider when dropping off your wife and luggage before returning the rental car. While it can be a convenient option, there are a few potential downsides and considerations to keep in mind:

Drop-off Zones: LAS has designated drop-off zones right in front of the terminals, and you can typically drop off passengers and luggage quickly. However, keep in mind that these areas are designed for short-term stops, and you may not linger for long without getting asked to move. If you're planning to drop off your wife and luggage, you’ll need to be prepared to quickly hand over the bags and leave the area to avoid blocking traffic. There are no fees for dropping off passengers at these zones, which is unlike some airports in other countries.
Traffic & Time Constraints: Traffic around LAS can get busy, especially during peak travel times, so be prepared for potential delays getting to the drop-off zone. If you plan to drop off your wife and luggage before heading to the rental car return, consider how much time you’ll need to allow for the walk back to the rental car area and the potential for delays due to traffic.
Rental Car Return Location: The rental car return area at LAS is located separately from the terminals, and you'll need to take a shuttle back to the terminal once you drop off the car. The shuttle ride can take a few minutes, so plan accordingly. If you drop off your wife and luggage at the terminal, it might make it easier for her to get checked in and through security while you handle the car return process.
Security & Access: Unlike some international airports where tickets or passes are required to get near the terminal, LAS does not generally require any special access to drop off passengers. The drop-off area is open to the public, and as long as you don’t linger for too long, you shouldn't face issues. However, be aware that parking for any extended time or leaving your vehicle unattended in the drop-off zones is not permitted.

Other Considerations:

Logistics: If you're traveling with a lot of luggage, it may be easier for your wife to check in without your help, especially if she's handling her bags alone. Dropping her off in front of the terminal allows her to get checked in while you return the car, but make sure to factor in the time needed for both of you to navigate the airport and any potential delays in traffic.
Peak Hours: During peak travel periods (like holidays or weekends), the drop-off zones can be crowded. If you’re traveling during these times, you might find that the drop-off area is busier than usual, so be prepared for a quick stop and to potentially have to circle around if there’s no immediate space.

Overall, while there are no major downsides to dropping off your wife and luggage at LAS, it’s important to plan accordingly and make sure you allow enough time for traffic, parking, and the rental car shuttle. It’s a perfectly viable option, but consider the timing of your flight, the volume of passengers at the airport, and how much luggage you’re both handling.