How to survive holiday travel through Edmonton International Airport

Various animals help fliers destress at YEG, the first airport in Canada to introduce pet therapy. Music fans can see whether anything is on at four YEG Live stages, showcasing Edmonton’s diverse music scene; booklovers can check out the Short Story Dispenser at Gate 64, featuring complimentary stories from 100 local authors.

Timesaver: YEG Express (free) offers domestic and international travellers booking times for security screening up to 72 hours in advance.

Local flavours: Edmonton originals Boston Pizza, Booster Juice and Wok Box offer takeout treats, while the new Indigenous Interpretative and Retail Centre combines history, culture and artisan retail.

Accessibility: The Information Booth is the source for Hidden Disabilities Sunflower or Autism Aviators lanyards, which let staff know that the wearer may need extra support. The Aira app connects travellers who are blind or partially sighted with a live agent who can guide them using the smartphone’s camera.

Upgrade: Two Plaza Premium Lounges (domestic/international and transborder) offer fliers amenities such as wifi, beverages and food, from $55 a person for two hours.

Layover: Spoil yourself with a club-floor room at the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel. Reservations include complimentary Club Lounge access – and all the breakfast, snacks and beverages that comes with it.

Got a connecting flight or want information about another airport? We’ve got your guide to surviving Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), and Calgary (YYC) and Vancouver (YVR).