JFK Airport Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Published by: BouncePosted
JFK Airport seen from the air

Named after the popular 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy International Airport, better known as JFK, is located in the Queens district of New York. The sixth busiest airport in the entire United States, JFK is the busiest air gateway into the United States for foreign travelers. With the millions of people who come to New York each and every year, it’s no surprise that JFK Airport is a notoriously busy place.

You can make your New York trip easier on yourself by dropping off your bags at a luggage storage near JFK Airport. The less you carry with you, the easier it will be to navigate the airport and the great city it serves. Drop off your bags where they will be safely looked after and explore New York with peace of mind.

JFK airport, New York

JFK Airport bag policy

As with most airports, bags are subject to screening and search at JFK. If you’re boarding a flight, you’ll need to have your bags scanned and possibly inspected for any forbidden items. Note that no liquids more than 3.4 ounces in volume can be taken through security onto a flight. And make sure you don’t leave your bags unattended. This can be seen as a threat, and unattended bags may be destroyed.

If you don’t want to deal with all the hassle, you can easily leave unnecessary bags behind at a luggage storage near JFK. It’s always better to travel light where possible, and it can help you avoid any problems with security staff.

JFK Airport food policy

You can bring food to JFK airport and even onto a flight so long as you submit it for screening. The only real restriction is on liquids. Note also that many individual airlines don’t allow you to bring alcohol on board with you. If you do decide to bring your own food to JFK, make sure you don’t litter.

Of course, as a busy airport, JFK also has plenty of dining options if you don’t feel like bringing your own. For grab and go snacks, Abitino’s Pizza, Cibo Express, and Mi Casa Cantina can help keep you fueled up. If you’d prefer a licensed bar, there are many to choose from, including BKLYN Beer Garden and Buffalo Wild Wings. You’ll also find upmarket restaurants such as 5ive Steakhouse and Due Amici.

JFK Airport camera policy

Cameras are permitted in JFK Airport. However, be careful where you point them. Photography is forbidden in the security screening area, and it’s not a good idea to take pictures of security personnel anywhere in the airport. Also, you’ll probably be asked to stop if you try setting up a tripod in the middle of the busy concourse.

Often, the best idea is to leave any bulky camera equipment elsewhere. A suitcase storage near JFK Airport ensures your banks will be safely looked after while you travel. That way, you won’t run into any problems at the airport.

JFK Airport rules

  • Smoking, including E-cigarettes, is banned in the airport. Smokers need to go outside and remain at least 25 feet from the nearest doorway.
  • Pets are permitted but must be leashed or in a carrier.
  • Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be consumed anywhere outside of licensed bars. Public intoxication is grounds for ejection from the airport.
  • JFK Airport is connected by the AirTrain to the New York subway system. The AirTrain stops at Jamaica and Howard Beach stations. At Jamaica, you can catch lines E, J, Z, and at Howard Beach, you can use line A.

JFK Airport lockers

JFK can be an incredibly busy place, especially during the summer travel season. As one of the main gateways to New York, the airport receives millions of travelers each and every year. For that reason, it’s no place to carry more than you need to.

Dropping off your backs at a luggage storage near JFK is one of the best things you can do to make your trip easier. You’ll find luggage storage at the airport itself, but it may be a better option to find a luggage locker near JFK Airport without actually being in it. That way, you’ll have more flexibility about where you keep your bags and won’t have to return to the airport to pick them up. Whatever you choose, you’ll be glad you’re not carrying more than you need to on your trip to New York.

Newsletter Banner

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter to get insider travel tips and a 10% discount delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam here, just the good stuff.

Get the
Bounce app

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Download