How to Get Through Airport Security Faster

10 Brilliant Time-Saving Hacks

Traveling? Ahhh-mazing. Airport security? Mmmm, not so much. Between TSA’s long lines and the overpriced airport Starbucks, getting to your destination (and back!) is anything but fun. But no worries, we’ve got you covered. From what to wear to what to pack, follow these tips to get through airport security faster.

Here are 10 ways to make airport security lines smooth and stress-free.

• Fly During Off-Peak Hours

  Want to avoid the crowds at TSA?

  Everyone is at the airport around midday. But with fewer flights (and flyers) in the early morning and late evening, lines will be shorter and faster. Flights are usually cheaper, too, so it’s a double win!

  Pro Tip: Mid-week flights also mean fewer crowds. Holiday weekends? Major crowds, you guys.

• Check Wait Times

  It’s all about timing, you guys. No one wants to get to the airport too early. But getting there too late is super stressful—you’ll be sweating if the security line is unexpectedly long or slow.

  Check the airport’s website or the MyTSA app for real-time wait times and time your arrival juuuust right. It might actually not help you get through airport security faster, but it’ll make the wait seem less…endless.

• Sign Up for TSA PreCheck

  Believe it or not, it really is possible to breeze through security. And TSA PreCheck can definitely make that happen. Apply online, and once you’re approved, you’ll get a KTN (Known Traveler Number) that you can add to your boarding passes.

  Travelers using TSA PreCheck have dedicated security lines that are usually much shorter. Plus, you don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, jacket, and can leave electronics and liquids in your carry-on. Faster and easier? Yes, please!

• Pack Smart

  Pretty much everyone’s familiar with the 3-1-1 rule: liquids and gels must be in containers no bigger than 3.4 ounces, placed in a 1-quart sealed bag, and only 1 bag per passenger.

  But it’s not just about the obvious liquids. Stocked up on local honey or jam at the farmer’s market while on vacation? Don’t be surprised if TSA re-screens your bag and confiscates it on the spot.

  The exception: if you’re traveling with young kids, baby food, formula, and milk can typically pass through security. But with constantly changing rules, be sure to double-check before heading to the airport.

• Dress Smart

  If you haven’t signed up for TSA PreCheck (and you really should!), choose a travel outfit that’ll help you get through airport security faster.

  –  Slip-on shoes or sandals. Definitely skip the lace-up boots or sandals with multiple straps.
  – Avoid clothes with lots of metal: buttons, zippers, straps.
  – If you need a jacket, hoodie, or cardigan, take it off well before you reach the front of the line. Don’t try to wear it through security!

• Keep Your Pockets Empty

  You already know they’re going to make you empty your pockets when you walk through the scanner. Make life a little easier by emptying them before you get in the TSA line. Throw your wallet, keys, phone, ear buds, and anything else in your bag ahead of time, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

• Keep Your Electronics and Liquids Handy

  For the most part, you’ll be asked to remove anything larger than a cell phone. Think tablets, laptops, and even some cameras. And that 3-1-1 ziplock bag? That, too.

  Pack your large electronics and liquids at the top of your bag, so they’re fast and easy to remove at the bins. (Some airports have newer scanners that let you keep them inside your bag, but don’t count on it.)

• Choose the Right Line

  Does it feel like it’s always your lane that’s the slowest? Same!

  Some TSA agents move faster than others. While you’re winding through the lane, keep an eye on which line is moving fastest. Try to avoid getting in line behind large groups, families, or anyone with multiple bags.

• Have Your ID and Boarding Pass Ready

  Whether it’s digital or printed, have both your boarding pass and ID on hand before you get to the front of the line. You don’t want to be digging through your bag at the last minute.

  P.S.: If you have a digital boarding pass, take a screenshot. Airport WiFi is notoriously unstable!

• Ship Your Luggage

  The easiest, most sure-fire way to get through airport security faster? Ship your bags to your final destination with LugLess. No need to haul a carry-on through security or worry about what you might have accidentally packed. So you can breeze through airport security with just your ID, boarding pass, and a smile!

Ready for your next vacation? Follow these easy tips, and getting through the airport will be (almost!) as enjoyable as the trip itself!