Some seasoned travelers have it down to a science. If you aren't eligible for the VIP/First Class/Business short-cut line, here are a few ways to reduce your waiting time (and stress) as you get through security.
1. Before you get in line have your passport, ID, boarding pass out and ready to show at the first security station. There are signs everywhere telling you to do this, but there is always someone rooting through their bag trying to locate these items.Don’t be that person.
2. In case you have been missing for the past few years, make sure you place any liquid items - toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, etc. - in a quart-sized ziplock bag. Airport security sometimes has these on hand but that is rare. All liquid items must be 3oz or less, otherwise they will be tossed. This goes for food too.
3. As you creep closer to the end of the line, get out your ziplock bag and laptop from your carry-on. Both of these items need to be placed in the security bin that goes through the X-ray conveyor.
4. Grab your bin(s) as soon as you can, place in your ziplock bag and laptop, along with the contents of your pockets. Throw in a small bag if it fits, otherwise that rides alone on the conveyor. You may use more than one bin if you need.
5. Wear shoes that easily slip off. Throw the shoes in the bin. Wear socks. Also throw in any overcoats or jackets.
6. If you are in a serious hurry take the body scan. It is indeed an invasion of privacy but unfortunately you may otherwise be delayed and touched in some personal places. Your luggage will also probably be checked mercilessly. You are fully entitled to a pat-down, from the same gender, should you decide.
7. After you walk through, grab your stuff at the other end. There are almost always benches on the other side for putting your shoes on and collecting yourself.
8. Be courteous! You may be a seasoned pro but many people are not and all that security could make anyone nervous. If someone looks clueless point out some help. Don’t groan if someone who is elderly, disabled, or with children takes longer than you would like. Chances are it’s more stressful for them to travel than for you to wait an extra minute. Remember we are all in this together!
Congrats! You are now a security expert. Spread the word and help speed up security lines around the world.
| Tweet |
