Let’s get tactical. The best arrival time is 85 minutes before departure. Why? Because the Pret a Manger just outside the gate has fresh baguettes at that exact moment.
Eurostar train tickets to France and the Netherlands set to get cheaper
You can grab a sandwich, sit near Gate 4, and watch other travelers panic. It’s cheap entertainment. You’ll see people sprinting, crying, or doing last-minute origami with their luggage tags.
One time, I saw a woman knit a scarf while waiting. She was so early she finished it. That’s the vibe you want: calm, productive, and slightly smug.
The “What If You’re Super Late?” Survival Guide
Okay, life happens. Maybe you misread the time (it’s 24-hour clock, whoops). If you have 20 minutes or less, here’s your plan: run.
Don’t buy anything. Don’t apologize to the people you shove. Just sprint with your passport in hand. The staff will be annoyed, but they’re legally required to wait for you until the exact departure minute.
True story: a friend made it with three minutes to spare. She was panting so hard she couldn’t speak French for the entire ride. Worth it? She says yes.
