Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

International arrivals clear US Customs and Border Protection, then baggage, then customs.

• ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) or a visa must be arranged before departure.
• Ride-hailing and taxi pickups use designated areas rather than the terminal kerb — follow the signage.
• Terminal-to-terminal walking is possible for some terminals; free shuttle buses cover the rest.

• Train

  Metro rail connection

  An automated people mover and metro connections link LAX with the regional rail network; check current service status before relying on it.

• Bus

  FlyAway and shuttles

  Nonstop bus services connect LAX with Union Station and other points; shared shuttles serve hotels.

• Taxi

  Taxis

  Licensed taxis operate from designated pickup areas.

  Traffic dominates journey times far more than distance.

• Ride-hailing

  Ride-hailing

  Uber and Lyft pick up from a designated ride-share area reached by shuttle — allow extra time.

• Car rental

  Rental cars

  Rental companies operate from a consolidated facility reached by shuttle; a car is genuinely useful in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles is spread out — check the drive time to your specific neighbourhood, not just 'the city'.

Connections may require leaving and re-entering security, especially between TBIT and domestic terminals.

• International arrivals must clear immigration and customs before any onward domestic flight.
• Allow generous time; LAX transfers involve significant walking or shuttle rides.

Free Wi-Fi is available in the passenger terminals.

• Connect to the airport's public network and follow the sign-in page.
• Treat public airport Wi-Fi as untrusted — avoid banking and account logins.
• An eSIM activated before you fly means you are online the moment you land, without hunting for a network.

Cards are accepted almost everywhere; carry small cash for tips.

• ATMs are available across the terminals.
• Tipping is customary — commonly 15-20%.
• Displayed prices exclude sales tax.

Extensive dining airside in most terminals, including well-regarded local operators in TBIT.

• Landside options are limited.

Airline lounges and pay-per-use lounges operate in several terminals including TBIT.

• Confirm your lounge is in your departure terminal.

A large hotel cluster sits immediately around the airport with shuttle services.

• Useful given LA traffic before an early flight.

Baggage storage services operate near the airport.

• Report delayed or damaged bags to your airline before leaving baggage claim.
• Use TSA-recognised locks on checked bags.

Nursing rooms and family restrooms are available.

• Request accessibility assistance through your airline in advance.

• Charging points
• Pharmacies
• Prayer room
• Information desks
• Pet relief areas
• SIM / mobile shops

Local emergency number: 911

• Airport police and paramedics operate at LAX.
• Report a lost passport to police and contact your consulate.

• Check your passport validity and any visa, ETA or entry declaration required.
• Confirm your departure terminal on your boarding pass the day before.
• Activate a travel eSIM so you are online the moment you land.
• Download offline maps and screenshot your hotel address and booking reference.
• Tell your bank you are travelling and carry a backup payment card.
• Save the local emergency number and your embassy contact in your phone.
• Photograph your passport and store the copy somewhere you can reach offline.
• Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your destination.

Airport operations change. Always confirm terminals, fares and timetables with the official sources below before you travel.

• LAX official siteOfficial airport source
• CBP — TravelGovernment source
• CBP — Travel and customs allowancesGovernment source
• LA Metro rail and busOfficial transit source
• LAX FlyAway busOfficial transit source
• 911.govGovernment source