Regardless of where you are heading on your next flight, you know that first you will have to get through airport security. From waiting in lengthy lines to requests from security guards to remove certain things you may be wearing, going through airport security can feel like a complete hassle even for the most experienced travelers. What are some tried and true tips to help make getting through airport security an easier, more pleasant experience? Check out these simple ideas and prepare to enjoy a smoother experience when going through airport security during your next trip.
Always Remain Alert
The security screening areas at airports are, more often than not, a hectic and busy place to be. That makes it a crucial spot to pay attention to what is going on around you. Make sure you watch your belongings closely as they are screened; keeping a watchful eye could keep your things from being taken by someone else (whether by accident or on purpose). After you have all of your items back in your possession, remain alert as you put them away and restore a sense of organization.
Avoid Wearing Metal
If you have ever set off the metal detectors at a security area before, you already know that it can slow you way down, especially if you require a pat down or an extra scan from a metal-detecting wand. If you are wearing any metal jewelry or a belt with metal accents, be sure to take those items off before going through security. You should also empty your pockets, particularly if they contain metal objects such as coins or keys.
Do Not Rush Yourself
Putting your belongings into several bins before sending them to be scanned by security can feel stressful even for those who travel frequently. Aim to arrive at the airport early so that you will have more than enough time to get through security without feeling rushed. You will be much less likely to leave something behind on accident if you are not in a hurry.
Keep Your ID Readily Accessible
Although this probably sounds fairly obvious, it is worth a reminder that keeping your passport and/or your driver’s license someplace where you can access them quickly and easily will make your travel experience far smoother. This is especially true as you approach the security area. Keeping your boarding pass reachable will further expedite getting through airport security.
Make a Smart Footwear Choice
As most airport security checkpoints require that you take off your shoes and place them in a bin to be scanned, help yourself out by wearing shoes that you can take off and put back on easily. Wear socks so that you can keep your feet protected from any germs that other travelers have introduced to this high-traffic area.
Put Liquids and Gels in one Quart-sized Bag
If you want to travel with liquids and gels in your carry-on bag, you will need to make sure they are in held in containers which are 3.4 ounce (100 milliliters) or smaller. All of these should be placed in one zip-top quart-sized plastic bag that can be easily taken out of your bags and put in a bin to be screened apart from your other items.
Take Out Larger Electronics
Devices that are larger than a cell phone such as a laptop or tablet should be removed from your bags and put into bins to be screened separately. However, there are some exceptions: the TSA has approved certain laptop cases from which a laptop does not need to be removed; TSA PreCheck also allows travelers to leave electronic items in their bags.
Getting through airport security easily may seem like a daunting task, but with the above tips, you can do what you can to avoid many common problems that can arise.
