Sun Country Terminal MSP: A Complete Guide to Flying from Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport’s Terminal 2

 

When it comes to affordable and smooth air travel from Minneapolis, few carriers are as well-recognized as Sun Country Airlines. If you’re planning a journey with this Minnesota-based airline, it’s essential to get familiar with your departure point: Terminal 2 at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP). Often referred to as the Humphrey Terminal, this facility is smaller, more efficient, and designed with simplicity in mind.

In this comprehensive blog, we’ll walk you through every aspect of the  experience—from check-in and baggage policies to dining, transportation, and travel tips—to ensure your next flight is as smooth as possible.

✈️ Introduction to Sun Country and Terminal 2

Sun Country Airlines has built a solid reputation for offering budget-friendly flights with a focus on leisure destinations like Florida, Las Vegas, Mexico, and the Caribbean. As a hub airline, all Sun Country departures and arrivals operate from Terminal 2 at MSP.

Unlike Terminal 1, which hosts a large number of carriers and can often be overwhelming, Terminal 2 is compact and efficient. The design supports low-cost carriers, ensuring quick check-in processes, minimal congestion, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Key Advantages of Terminal 2:

  • Smaller and easier to navigate

  • Shorter TSA lines

  • Close proximity between check-in and gates

  • Ideal for travelers with limited mobility, families, or those in a hurry

🧳 Baggage Policy and Check-In Procedures

Check-In Options:

  • Online Check-In: Available 24 hours before departure via the website or mobile app

  • Airport Kiosks: Self-service machines to print boarding passes and bag tags

  • Ticket Counters: Staffed counters for check-in assistance and bag drop

Sun Country Baggage Allowance:

Sun Country operates on a low-cost pricing model, which means baggage is not automatically included in your fare.

ItemIncluded in Basic FareFee Required?
Personal Item (e.g. backpack)✅ Yes❌ No
Carry-On Bag❌ No✅ Yes
Checked Bag (50 lbs max)❌ No✅ Yes
Oversized/Overweight❌ No✅ Yes

💡 Tip: Book your baggage allowance in advance online—fees at the airport are typically much higher.

🔐 Security and Boarding Experience

TSA and Security at Terminal 2:

  • One main security checkpoint simplifies the process

  • TSA PreCheck available for eligible travelers

  • Shorter wait times than Terminal 1

  • Family lanes make it easier for those traveling with kids

After clearing security, you’ll find all gates arranged in a single concourse. This layout means minimal walking time from security to your gate—a major benefit if you’re tight on time.

🍽 Dining and Refreshment Options

Though Terminal 2 is more compact, it offers a respectable variety of restaurants and food vendors that cater to both early morning and late-night travelers.

Dining Highlights:

  • Caribou Coffee: Perfect for a morning caffeine boost

  • Surdyk’s Flights: A wine bar and gourmet snack shop with sandwiches and salads

  • Subway: Familiar sandwiches made to order

  • A&W: Fast food burgers, fries, and signature root beer

  • Camden Food Co.: A healthier option with salads, wraps, and fresh snacks

Grab-and-go options are available near every gate, allowing you to pick up food without missing boarding calls.

🛍 Shopping & Airport Amenities

Though Terminal 2 isn’t packed with luxury brands, it offers everything you might need for a convenient flight.

Available Stores:

  • Hudson News: Magazines, snacks, drinks, and travel accessories

  • Tech on the Go: Chargers, headphones, and electronics

  • MSP Essentials: Toiletries, neck pillows, and travel gear

Other Amenities:

  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

  • USB/power outlets near most gates

  • Water bottle refill stations

  • Accessible restrooms and family areas

  • Nursing rooms for privacy

🌍 International Travel from Terminal 2

Sun Country operates multiple international flights to sunny, popular vacation spots including:

  • Cancun

  • Punta Cana

  • Montego Bay

  • Liberia, Costa Rica

Terminal 2 is fully equipped with U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities, which means international travelers can complete the immigration process within the terminal—no need to transfer or switch terminals.

For International Travelers:

  • Arrive 3 hours before departure

  • Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months

  • Check destination-specific visa or vaccination requirements

🚗 Transportation and Parking Information

Getting to Terminal 2 is easy, whether you’re being dropped off, taking public transit, or parking your own vehicle.

Parking Options:

  • Hourly Parking Ramp: Ideal for drop-offs and quick pick-ups

  • Daily Parking Ramp: Covered and directly connected to the terminal

  • Value Economy Lots: Budget-friendly option with shuttle service

  • EV charging stations are available

Ground Transportation:

  • Light Rail Transit (LRT): Free between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

  • Taxis, Uber, and Lyft: Pick-up zones are well-marked outside the terminal

  • Hotel and off-site parking shuttles stop curbside

  • City bus routes available from Ground Transportation Center

💼 Business and Family Services

Sun Country Terminal MSP is also designed with both professionals and families in mind.

For Business Travelers:

  • Ample seating with USB and plug-in outlets

  • Quiet work areas

  • Free Wi-Fi for remote work or meetings

For Families:

  • Kid-friendly food options

  • Family restrooms

  • Short distances between gates and services

  • Helpful staff at every step

🔍 Pro Travel Tips

  1. Download the Sun Country App for real-time flight alerts, mobile check-in, and digital boarding passes

  2. Pre-pay for baggage online to avoid high airport fees

  3. Arrive early, especially during holidays and peak seasons

  4. Bring your own refillable water bottle—refill stations are after security

  5. Travel light—a personal item can often be enough for weekend trips

  6. Double-check your gate—they can occasionally change close to boarding time

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Which terminal does Sun Country use at MSP?
A: All Sun Country flights depart from Terminal 2 (Humphrey Terminal) at MSP.

Q2: Does Sun Country include checked baggage?
A: No. Only a personal item is included in the base fare. Carry-on and checked bags cost extra.

Q3: Is Terminal 2 connected to Terminal 1?
A: Not directly. Use the Light Rail Transit (LRT) for free transportation between terminals.

Q4: Are there lounges in Terminal 2?
A: No traditional airline lounges, but there are comfortable waiting areas and charging points.

Q5: What time should I arrive before my flight?
A: At least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before international flights.

Q6: Are TSA PreCheck and CLEAR available at Terminal 2?
A: TSA PreCheck is available. CLEAR is not currently supported at Terminal 2.

✅ Conclusion

The sun country terminal msp offers a hassle-free, efficient, and enjoyable airport experience. For travelers looking for convenience and speed, especially those flying on a budget, Terminal 2 stands out as a smart and traveler-focused option. Whether you're heading out for a weekend escape or an international beach vacation, Terminal 2 delivers everything you need in a clean, compact, and commuter-friendly environment.

From simple check-ins and easy navigation to quick TSA lines and convenient dining, Sun Country’s home terminal proves that travel doesn’t need to be stressful. So next time you fly, fly smart—and fly Sun Country from MSP Terminal 2.

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