Is there a special sauce to get through airport security faster? While some of the process is out of your control, such as length of lines or how many security personnel are on point, there are many things you can do to speed yourself along and mitigate delays. And, if you are in a hurry, skip to Tip #7 – it’s the fastest!
1) Have your ID and boarding pass out and ready to hand to the TSA agent. If you use your cell phone, take a screen shot of the boarding pass to avoid internet connection disruption.
2) Wear slip-on shoes. Unless you are under 12 or over 75, you must remove shoes to go through the screening machines. Wear shoes that don’t require lacing, buckling, or boots that are difficult to get on/off. And on that note, I recommend a pair of socks (sans holes!). Change into your flip-flops or sandals after you’re finished at the checkpoint.
3) Don’t invite secondary screening. Take a moment before going thru the scanner to insure you’ve removed your belt, watch, jewelry, keys and loose change from pockets, etc. Put these in your bag or one of the small baskets provided.
4) When packing, place your 3-1-1 liquids in an accessible compartment such as an outside pocket. There’s enough going on without rooting through your bags trying to find the little baggie. You can always relocate the liquids after you’ve cleared the checkpoint.
5) Purchase a TSA approved carrying case for your laptop. If you don’t have a TSA case, place the laptop in the same bin as your shoes. You’ll be less likely to walk away without it. Laptops and small electronics are the most frequently left behind items.
6) Many airports have more than one screening area within a terminal. Check the airport’s app. More than once I’ve seen lengthy lines at one checkpoint and no waiting at another just a few gates away.
7) Get TSA Pre-Check. This is the number one way to speed through security! TSA Pre-Check allows you to leave your shoes and jacket on, your toiletries and laptop snug in your bag, and you get a separate line that is usually shorter and always speedier. $85 for five years. A bargain. And if you fly internationally, even once a year, consider Global Entry. It’s only $15 additional and you get express customs lines when you return to the US. Bonus - you can wait in the bar while your friends, who didn’t sign up, are putting their shoes back on.
Have a great trip!
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