Sydney airport braces for 2.5 million passengers this Easter

Avoid the holiday mayhem by following these simple and easy tips.

Easter is the perfect time to book a break. For families, kids are finally on school holidays. For couples, public holidays mean some extra time off work. And for the rest of us? Well, we’ve made it through the first quarter of the year relatively unscathed. All deserving of a luxurious long weekend away, right?

In 2025, it’s evident that more Aussies are keen to get away over the Easter period. From 9 to 29 April this year, Sydney Airport is expecting 2.5 million passengers through its doors – that’s 125,000 people per day. But before you think about cancelling those flights, we’ve got some tricks up our sleeve for making your departure day as stress-free as possible.

What’s going on at Sydney Airport?

This April, Sydneysiders are eager to escape not only the city, but the country, too. It’s the International Airport’s busiest Easter in over five years, with around one million passengers set to pass through its T1 terminal. That’s a nine per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Sydney Airport departure gate — Around 2.5 million passengers will depart Sydney this Easter. (Image: Getty Images/Dora Dalton)

Over at the Domestic Airport, 1.5 million people are expected through both the T2 and T3 terminals – more than three per cent higher than last year. Thursday 17 April will be its busiest day, with an anticipated 85,000 passengers. International travel will peak the following day, Friday 18 April, with 53,000 outbound travellers.

“The ongoing growth in passenger numbers reflects the introduction of new services and increased capacity from airlines, and we’re looking forward to welcoming more flights and new airline partners throughout 2025," explains Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton.

But Sydney Airport is well-prepared for the pandemonium. Staff numbers will be boosted across all terminals and stations, from security and customs to check-in and boarding. Transport vehicles within the airport will also be redirected to arrival gates during peak periods to avoid bottlenecking.

“To keep up with this demand, we’re investing across the airport – from terminals to the airfield – to improve efficiency and enhance the experience for passengers," continues Scott.

Planes at Sydney Airport, NSW — Sydney Airport is preparing for the Easter rush. (Image: Getty Images/Boeing746)

These investments will see 15 new screening lanes at the T1 International terminal, with five new lanes already in operation. The improved process means increased flow of foot traffic and reduced wait times.

The T2 Domestic terminal will also benefit, with a $200 million upgrade due to begin on 1 May. Key features include self-serve check-in kiosks, advanced drop bag systems, new security technology and improved accessibility features. It marks the terminal’s first major renovation in over 30 years, promising to get passengers from kerb to gate in just 15 minutes.

How to avoid the chaos

While the increased number of passengers at Sydney Airport this Easter may put some people off, there are definitely ways to make it less stressful than it needs to be. Here are a few handy tips to getting on your flight without any hiccups along the way.

1. Plan transportation in advance

If you’re driving to the airport, book your parking at the same time you book your flights. The Blu Emu parking complex is a great option. Less than two kilometres from the airport, it has a shuttle bus that runs every 15 minutes. Those taking public transport should plan their trip via Transport NSW well ahead of departure. Know which train line or bus route you need to take and allow time for delays and traffic.

2. Purchase travel insurance

A suitcase on a buggage belt at the airport — Travel insurance can help in the case of lost luggage. (Image: Getty Images/Onurdongel)

Once you’ve booked your flights and planned your transport, it’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance. In doing so, you can protect yourself against unforeseen issues that come with peak-season travel, like delays, cancellations, lost luggage and other emergencies. There are plenty of options out there, so it’s important to do the research and find out what best suits you and your travel needs.

3. Check in ahead of time

Avoid extra stress on departure day by checking in online before you arrive at the airport. Most airlines actually encourage an early check-in, as it saves time for both passengers and airport staff. Online check-in usually opens 48 hours ahead of domestic flights and 24 hours before international departures. It’s a relatively quick process, easily completed on the airline’s website or mobile app – all you need is your booking reference.

4. Travel with carry-on luggage

People lining up with luggage at the airport — Avoid long lines by travelling with carry-on luggage. (Image: Getty Images/Izusek)

If you’re only going away for a short amount of time, try to squeeze everything you need into a carry-on bag. Plan out your outfits ahead of time, avoid heavy/bulky items and only pack the essentials – just remember, it will need to weigh seven kilograms or less. Without checked luggage, you can check yourself in and skip the lines. Even better, when you arrive at your destination, you’ll avoid the crowds at the baggage carousel.

5. Arrive early to avoid delays

While domestic passengers are usually encouraged to arrive at least 60 minutes before departure, those travelling this Easter should get to the airport with two hours to spare. If you’re heading overseas, give yourself at least three hours. There’s plenty to keep you occupied on the other side of security – do some shopping (did someone say duty free?), have lunch or hang out at your gate with a good book.

6. Stay informed and updated

Crowds at the airport — Airport delays can occur at any time. (Image: Getty Images/Baona)

No matter how prepared you are, busy travel periods can mean unexpected delays and last-minute changes. Be sure to stay informed on your departure gate and flight status via the Sydney Airport website. Know the security rules (laptops out of bags, liquid restrictions, no prohibited products etc.) and always have your booking details handy.

7. Be kind to yourself and others

Delays, flight cancellations, large crowds and long lines can be frustrating, but it’s always important to be kind. Remind yourself that other passengers are probably just as stressed and airport workers are doing their best, too. While you’re off on holiday, they’re working hard to get you there without any issues.

If air travel makes your anxious, ensure you have everything you need – whether that’s buying your favourite snack, packing a comforting object or booking an airline known for helping nervous flyers. With a good amount of preparation and a little bit of kindness, everyone can enjoy Easter and find joy in the chaos.

The ultimate road trip begins and ends on NSW’s stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Whales, charming villages, fine wine and stunning natural vistas: there’s a lot to love about a road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Winding from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven before heading inland to the Southern Highlands, this scenic drive makes for an unforgettable road trip.

But like all great road trips, it’s not just about the drive but the stops made along the way. From incredible farm-to-plate (and grape-to-glass) dining options to unbeatable natural vistas and quaint towns with beautiful accommodation, there’s plenty to explore en route.

Where to eat

What is a road trip without incredible food? Whether you’re after fresh seafood, slow-cooked paddock-to-plate feasts or delicious wines, you’ll find something around every bend along Grand Pacific Drive.

Restaurant Santino is a local Wollongong secret we can’t keep quiet any longer. With a fresh take on Italian cuisine, servings are hearty and flavours are comforting. The chitarra with blue swimmer crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and crustacean oil is a crowd favourite.

Keep it local in Shellharbour with a menu all about fresh local produce at Relish on Addison . From South Coast oysters and blue swimmer crab linguine to crispy pork belly, surf and turf takes on an elevated meaning here.

Kiama’s neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, Little Betty’s , is just as good for a tasty share plate as it is for creative cocktails. The signature Grilled Octopus with burnt honey, garlic confit and sautéed Asian greens is worth a trip on its own.

Only the best will do in Shoalhaven, where multi-award-winning Bangalay Dining uses native Australian ingredients to bring its dishes to life. Start with the Smoked trout croquette before moving on to the sautéed potato gnocchi. Don’t forget the white chocolate mousse for dessert.

Meanwhile, the Southern Highlands are full of culinary highlights. From dining on incredibly fresh, local fare (we’re talking ingredients plucked from the team’s on-site kitchen garden or sourced through local producers) at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima to creating gin blends at Millsheds Distillery .

bangalay dining shoalhaven — Taste native flavours at Bangalay Dining.

Exploring nature

Scenery is everything when hitting the road, and Grand Pacific Drive serves it up in spades. Drivers don’t even have to leave the car to enjoy the iconic ocean views from Seacliff Bridge (but several lookouts make it easy to stop).

Seaside Kiama boasts stunning beaches and famous blowholes. But travellers can also swap ocean for rainforest when taking the Minnamurra Rainforest walk, culminating in a picturesque waterfall. Or soar overhead at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures .

The scenic coastal drive along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton. — Cruise along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Between May and November, 30,000 whales make their way passed the South Coast between May and November. Spot them from the coastal shores or join a whale-watching cruise from Shellharbour Marina or Jervis Bay. Dive in with Woebegone Freedive .

Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park is home to a traditional bush tucker and medicine walk with Aboriginal tour group, Gumaraa . Learn Indigenous healing practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and wisdom of the land’s Traditional Owners.

Wollongong is the perfect place for hikers, with the 6.5-kilometre Wodi Wodi track serving up views, settler history and a variety of landscapes in one loop. If you prefer, skip the walk and pull up at Bald Hill Lookout for expansive views south towards Wollongong (and a hang-glider or two).

For something truly unique, join the Highland Cow experience at The Swallow’s Nest in the Southern Highlands. In a brand-new offering, get a taste of farm life and help groom and feed these gorgeous creatures.

kiama coast walk people with dog — Wander the Kiama Coast Walk.

Unique experiences

No need to choose between an adrenaline rush or a culture fix, Grand Pacific Drive serves up both.

Soar into aviation history at Shellharbour’s HARS Aviation Museum . Tour the museum, then join a guided walk onto the wing of the record-breaking Qantas Boeing 747 and see the significant historic aircraft up close.

If ever there was a place to skydive, it’s in Wollongong. Dive from 15,000 feet (tandem, of course) with Sky Dive Wollongong and see the coastal beauty of this region from above.

Shoalhaven’s Bundanon Art Museum has to be one of the most unique offerings in the country. The legacy of artist Arthur Boyd and more than just a gallery, find eco-accommodation, fine dining, award-winning architecture and community here.

Kiama’s Crooked River Estate is about more than just delicious wine. Grab a picnic blanket and enjoy casual food and drinks with live music at Kick Back Fridays , every week.

Between June and August, the Southern Highlands’ Robertson attracts novice truffle hunters. Join the hunt at family-owned and operated Robertson Truffles (alternatively, you can order truffle treats online, if your sense of adventure isn’t up for it).

Freshly dug truffles at Terra Preta Truffles, Braidwood. — Discover hidden gems beneath the soil in the Southern Highlands. (Image: Destination NSW)

Where to stay

Road trips are the ultimate promotion for slow travel, encouraging visitors to take their time, enjoy the journey and stop along the way to really immerse themselves in local towns.

Find history and elegance at Berida Hotel in the Southern Highlands. Intimately set amongst gardens, but still close to the main street of Bowral, this 1920s private residence turned boutique hotel is the perfect stay.

Stay in one of Barranca’s private villas with views of rolling farmland overlooking the dramatic escarpment at Kangaroo Valley or be surrounded by native bushland (a short walk from the beach) in Jervis Bay.

Speaking of beachside escapes, Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach delivers unrivalled access to Wollongong’s beaches. These serviced apartments enjoy coastal views from spacious balconies.

For something completely different again, check in at Cicada Luxury Camping . Stay in safari-style or large bell tents, each with a private fire pit and top-notch kitchen facilities. Outside, enjoy spectacular countryside views.

Discover more and plan your ultimate road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive and beyond at grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand.