How to survive holiday travel through Montreal-Trudeau International Airport

The 30-member YUL Pet Squad welcomes new friends to the airport. Those travelling internationally can find distraction at Cyber Station, with more than 25 video games plus PlayStation 5 consoles. For little ones, a new playground at Gate 5 in domestic departures is the fifth kids fun zone.

Timesaver: Domestic and international fliers can reserve a security screening time through YUL Express (free). Those heading to the United States can use the Mobile Passport Control app to save time at U.S. customs.

Local flavours: Auberge Saint-Gabriel offers upscale casual dining for international travellers, while downtown fave Ryu, serving traditional Japanese cuisine, is an option for domestic and transborder fliers.

Accessibility: Red-jacketed YUL ambassadors can help in 13 languages.

Upgrade: Available to all international travellers, the National Bank Lounge near Gate 53 is open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Entrance fees start at $50, and include refreshments, appetizers, wifi and international newspapers and magazines.

Layover: Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel includes a 24-hour fitness centre and Altispa, where you can book a pressotherapy treatment to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage.

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