The Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) is located about 15 miles from Durham and 25 miles from Raleigh. Research Triangle Park is a short drive from the airport. The junction to Interstate 40 is close by.
The airport is split into two terminals. Parking is split up accordingly for both terminals. But there is a shortage of parking at the airport. Expect to spend some time trying to find a place.
I believe all the car rental locations are only accessible by courtesy van. You will need to budget your time accordingly.
There is no curbside check-in of luggage. Smoking is permitted in designated areas of the airport. The security checkpoint is well manned and has ample room to handle large crowds.
The terminals are large and handles large crowds easily. But the crowds turn into a mob when boarding commences. It seems that no one listens to the gate attendants. Eventhough an attempt to board by row number is made the crowds do not hear.
Arriving passengers need not hurry to the baggage claim area on the lower concourse. It takes the ground crews some time to get baggage on to the baggage claim carousels.