A comprehensive guide to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Quick insights
- The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is a few miles northwest of downtown Savannah, GA and a short drive to Hilton Head, SC.
- SAV has one terminal with nearly two dozen gates providing daily non-stop flights to several U.S. destinations.
- There are several parking lots at SAV all on a first come, first served basis.
The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a gateway to the cities of Savannah, Hilton Head and the greater Georgia and South Carolina coastal area. This sea level region—referred to as the Lowcountry—is home to Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island and Sea Island.
Whether the Lowcountry is your travel destination or the place you call home, here are some things you may want to know about flying in and out of SAV.
Navigating to and from SAV
SAV is located about 8 miles northwest of downtown Savannah, GA. It is accessible via I-95 and I-16 and a short drive to Hilton Head, SC.
For those traveling to and from SAV, there are several transportation options:
- Rental cars: Rental car companies are located in baggage claim at SAV. All car rental and return lots are covered and located adjacent to the main terminal building.
- Rideshare services: Travelers using a rideshare can be picked up at the north entrance of the baggage claim area.
- Taxis: Taxis are located on the lower level just outside of the baggage claim area. There are several cab companies that are available for late-night arrivals and on-demand service to local destinations.
There are also private airport shuttles and charters that can take passengers to nearby Hilton Head hotels.
Parking at SAV
There is a mix of short-term, long-term and economy parking lots at SAV. Parking options and on-site garages include:
- Long term/hourly parking: Located 150 feet from the main terminal, this four-level parking garage provides short- and long-term parking. There are hourly and daily rates and EV charging stations.
- Economy parking: This two-level parking garage offers more affordable rates for longer stays. It is located just beyond the hourly parking lot, a little less than 400 feet from the terminal.
- Cell phone waiting lot: This is a free parking area for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers. Drivers must stay with their vehicles as there is no unattended parking allowed.
All parking at SAV is available on a first come, first served basis. There are signs at the airport to direct passengers to open lots.
To accommodate heavy travel times, there are five overflow and value lots located further from the terminal, but with less expensive daily rates.
SAV terminals and map
SAV has a single terminal with two levels. The lower-level houses rental car counters and baggage claim, and the upper level has the ticketing counter, security screening and departures. The terminal has a single concourse with nearly two dozen gates serving various airlines.
View terminal informationOpens overlay, including maps and a list of airport shops, restaurants and more.
Security at SAV
Security checkpoints are located on the second level just beyond the ticketing counters. Security screening is open daily from 3:45 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Times are subject to change as the checkpoint may close earlier or remain open later depending on departing flight schedules.
Airport guidance generally recommends passengers arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to their scheduled domestic flight departure time and 3 hours prior for international flights. During peak travel periods—such as holidays and spring break—you may want to consider budgeting extra time for security.
Getting through airport security faster
Customs and TSA wait times can vary, but there are Trusted Traveler Programs (TTPs) that may help expedite the security and passport screening processes.
TSA PreCheck® allows members to use designated lanes at airport security checkpoints. Passengers in those lanes typically do not need to remove light jackets, shoes, belts or jewelry during screening.
Global Entry allows members to bypass the standard customs line and use a designated kiosk to scan their passport, provide fingerprints and complete a customs declaration. Global Entry members also receive TSA PreCheck benefits.
Some credit cards offer reimbursement for TTP application fees when the cardmember uses their eligible card to pay the fee.
Things to do at SAV
SAV offers several features and amenities to help make your travel experience more enjoyable and comfortable. There are a variety of dining options, ranging from quick snacks to sit-down restaurants. Travelers can also visit shops offering gifts, souvenirs, or travel essentials. There are shopping and dining options available before security screening as well as in the concourse.
In summary
SAV is a gateway to the Lowcountry that is the coastal region of Georgia and South Carolina. Offering convenient access to both Savannah and Hilton Head, SAV offers several daily, non-stop flights to cities across the U.S.
The airport has one terminal with nearly two dozen gates just beyond security screening. Airport officials generally recommend arriving 2 hours ahead of time for domestic flights.
There are many parking options at SAV with a mix of short-term, long-term and economy lots. All parking is on a first come, first served basis. Airport signage will direct travelers to open spots.
