There you are at the airport stuck in line with only 45 minutes to check-in and get through security….
As you stand there having a small internal panic attack you look farther down at what seems to be a never-ending twisting and turning line of people. For beginner travelers and the experts, everyone can agree that airport lines are stressful. Traveling should be fun! Personally, I love traveling. Yes, it can be stressful but if you plan ahead it can be an enjoyable experience. Here are a few key tricks that can help you get through quickly, become an expert at avoiding airport lines and begin your adventure.
Checking In
Always check-in the day before online. This is obvious but it can save you 5-15 minutes and that can be a huge difference between arriving at your gate with time to spare or sprinting to the gate with your shoes untied and sweat pouring down your face.
TSA Precheck
I am sure you may have seen that special line that allows a select few to cut the majority of security. It is actually rather simple. To qualify for TSA PreCheck all you need is to fill out some forms, schedule an appointment, and pay $85 USD. This can make getting through the TSA screening machines a 5-minute process. I recommend selecting the Global Entry version if you ever plan to travel abroad within the next 5 years.
Photo Credit: carpepoints.com
Security Scanning
So if you have passed the check-in process and the initial security line now it is time to go through the scanning machines. Before you get there take the time the day before to plan ahead and ask, “What am I wearing and what am I bringing?” We have all seen that person with the overly complicated footwear, bag, and or jacket. Don’t be that person that has every zip, strap, and flap imaginable. Liquid containers in your bag should be not over 3.4 ounces each. Don’t be the person that has a jacket with a thousand small pockets that are full of 30 strategically placed, different pieces of change, keys, or nick-nacks.
Photo Credit: cnn.com
Simplicity is key
Make sure your footwear is easy to put on and take off. When deciding on pants they need to fit because taking on and off your belt can be the difference between 2-5 minutes. If you absolutely do need a belt, take it off and put it in your bag before you arrive at the carry-on conveyor belt. In regards to your jacket, place all of the things you will want in the same pocket in your carry-on and then once you have cleared security you know exactly where everything is.
Photo Credit: blog.tripadvisor.com
