DCA airport last night or no?

Question

If my flight out of DCA is at 7:40am, should I stay at the national mall or move one night to DCA airport?

Answer

For a 7:40am flight out of Reagan National Airport (DCA), staying near the airport the night before can save a lot of stress, especially with early morning TSA lines and potential traffic. DCA is very close to downtown Washington DC, but early morning traffic on the George Washington Parkway or around the airport can still be unpredictable, and airport parking or shuttle logistics add time pressure.

If you stay near the National Mall, you would need to leave your hotel very early to ensure you arrive at the airport with enough time for check-in and security. This could mean a 4:30–5:00am departure, depending on your transportation choice.

Here are some options to consider:

Stay near DCA airport: There are several hotels within a few minutes’ drive, shuttle, or even walking distance from the terminal. This minimizes early morning stress and makes catching your flight more manageable.
Stay near the National Mall: Enjoy your last night in central DC with access to evening sights, but be prepared for an early wake-up, potential traffic, and arranging a taxi, Uber, or Metro to the airport before dawn.
Hybrid approach: Stay in the National Mall area, but plan for a very early taxi/Uber to the airport. This could work if you want one last evening in the city and are comfortable with a 4:00–4:30am departure.

Additional tips:

Check if your hotel offers a shuttle to DCA, which can simplify the morning commute.
If you stay at the National Mall and use a rideshare, factor in surge pricing and slightly longer pick-up times during early morning hours.
For domestic flights, aim to arrive at DCA at least 90 minutes prior to departure; for international flights, 2–3 hours.

In summary, if minimizing stress is your top priority, booking a hotel near DCA the night before is generally the safer option for a 7:40am flight. Staying on the National Mall is possible but requires careful planning and an early start.