How to Navigate Airport Security Quickly and Efficiently

Navigating airport security can be one of the most time-consuming and stressful parts of any trip – but it doesn’t have to be! With the right strategies, you can get through the airport without hassle, and have more time to relax before boarding your flight. In this blog, we will share essential tips to help you navigate security quickly and efficiently, so that you can say goodbye to long lines and hello to a smooth journey ahead. 

1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck

Signing up for TSA PreCheck is the best way to ensure that you get through airport security in a timely manner. TSA PreCheck essentially expedites the screening process, allowing you to potentially get to your gate more quickly. Some of the perks that come along with the program include that you won’t have to remove your belt or shoes, and you may also be able to keep your laptop inside of your bag. Another benefit is that you can go through a dedicated line for TSA PreCheck members, avoiding the lengthy regular security lines.

2. Monitor Security Wait Times

During the peak travel times of the year (including spring break and around the holidays), it can take up to an hour or more to get through security, so it’s best to get to the airport extra early. However, during other times of the year, it can be challenging to gauge how long the lines will be. Fortunately, you can download and utilize the MyTSA app to check the current wait times, allowing you to get an understanding of when you should head over to the airport. When in doubt, it’s always better to leave earlier rather than later. The last thing you want is to be late and miss your flight!

3. Dress For Success

Dressing for success is one of the most important things that you can do when it comes to navigating the airport in a timely manner. If possible, avoid wearing a jacket, belt, watch, shoes that you have to tie, or anything that has a lot of metal. These items will only slow you down, as you’ll have to remove them before going through security. Instead, wear simple, comfortable clothing that you won’t have to remove, and if you’re afraid that you’ll get cold, keep a jacket inside your bag to put on later. Another great tip is to only wear slip on shoes as they are easy to remove and put back on.

4. Don’t Check Your Bag

Gone are the days of packing everything in your closet for a trip. Not only does this make your bag bulky and harder to carry around with you, but you’ll also have to take extra time to check in your bag. During peak times, you may have to wait in line up to an hour to check in your luggage. To avoid this extra stress, pack as minimal as possible, and only bring along one piece of luggage that’s small enough to fit in the overhead compartment. Trust us, this will save you a lot of time. If you’re worried about not bringing enough clothing with you, remember that you can wash your clothes and rewear them if needed. 

5. Consider Smaller Airports

Large airports can come with big crowds, which means lengthy delays and wait times. On the other hand, smaller airports may not have as many people flying in and out, allowing you to get through them faster than usual. There are many alternate airports that you can depart from that will get you to your destination without the stress of waiting in long lines. Some other reasons that you should consider flying out of a smaller airport are that they may offer different routes than you’re used to, and you could possibly save a good chunk of money on your airline tickets. 

6. Keep Important Documents Within Reach

When going through security, you’ll have to show the TSA agent some important travel documents. This includes your passport (if traveling internationally), REAL-ID compliant drivers license, and airline ticket. Do your best to keep these items within reach so that you can access them when the time comes. The more documents that you have in hand, the better (and faster) your airport experience will be. Once you get to your gate, place your documents in a safe place and keep them by you at all times.

7. Keep Your Electronics Accessible

You will likely need to pull out your electronics when going through security, and the last thing you want to do is not be prepared. As you get closer to the security checkpoint, take time to pull out all of your electronic devices that are larger than a cellphone. This way, you can simply put them onto the belt, without having to try and get them out of your bag at the last second. Remember that you will need to take all of your electronics out of your bag that are larger than a cellphone, including any laptops or tablets. If you aren’t sure what items will need to come out of your bag, just ask a TSA agent. 

8. Empty Your Pockets

One of the most common mistakes that people make when navigating airport security is leaving items inside of their pockets. If you accidentally leave something in your pocket, you will most likely get stopped by the TSA, be asked to take these items out, place them onto the security belt, and then go through the screening process again. Do yourself a favor and save some time by taking everything out right away. You’ll be glad you did!

Conclusion

Following these tips can make your airport experience go smoothly, and help you get to your gate more quickly. Another important thing to keep in mind when planning your vacation is to check your passport’s validity. Renewing your passport early will help keep you stress-free and ready for your upcoming international trip. You can get your passport renewal started today by visiting our website. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.