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Thousands are gearing up to leave the GTA, as the March Break vacation exodus begins…

A record number of travellers is expected to pass through Pearson International Airport on Friday as the March Break getaway begins.

The airport estimated 115,000 passengers came through its doors on Thursday, with 5,000 more — a total of 120,000 — expected on Friday. That’s a three-to-four per cent increase over 2015.

Pearson says it is doing everything it can to make things easier for travellers, but patience and extra time are still recommended.

There are new stores, a pharmacy, activity kits for kids, valet parking, concierge, free baggage carts, free wi-fi, and lots of food options, Scott Collier, vice president of customer and terminal services, said in a statement.

Tips for travellers:

Arrive early, two hours before a domestic flight and three hours if you are going international.

Check with airlines for your flight status prior to departing for the airport.

Be aware of any baggage restrictions. Ensure liquids and gels in carry-on luggage are in containers no larger than 100 milliliters, and be prepared to take out your laptop prior to screening. For more details on what is permitted, click here.

This March, Pearson is offering covered parking at Terminal 3 for the same price as its value park garage when passengers book online.

Pearson employees will also be handing out free activity kits for kids. Each kit will include sweet treats, a “how to draw an airplane” booklet, a scavenger hunt, and other travel essentials.

(Photo courtesy of Wikipedia and story courtesy of 680News.com Staff)