Nobody enjoys waiting in long airport security lines, but with the right airport security tips, you can breeze through checkpoints faster than before.
Airport Security Tips: Get Through Security Fast
Follow these proven strategies to minimize your wait time and stress at airport security.
1. Apply for Expedited Programs in Advance
- TSA PreCheck: Apply for TSA PreCheck to skip removing shoes, belts, laptops, and liquids from bags – they guarantee a wait of 10 minutes or less!
- Global Entry: For frequent international travelers, includes TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs screening when entering the US
- CLEAR+: Uses biometric scanning to verify identity and skip to the front of security lines
2. Have Documents Ready
- Boarding pass: Keep your boarding pass easily accessible, whether printed or on your phone
- ID: Have acceptable identification ready – driver’s license, passport, or other TSA-approved ID
2. Pack Smart
- Electronics: You might need to remove laptops and tablets for separate screening, so make sure they’re easy to pull out of your bag
- Liquids: You might need to remove your liquids bag for screening, so pack them in a clear sandwich-sized bag following the 3-1-1 rule (containers 3.4 oz/100ml or smaller).
- When in doubt: If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, leave it at home rather than risk delays or confiscation
3. Dress for Success
- Pockets: Empty everything from your pockets beforehand – phones, keys, wallets, coins, and any other items
- Footwear: You may need to take off your shoes (not required with TSA PreCheck). Consider wearing slip-on shoes for faster removal.
- Clothing: You may need to remove outerwear like hats, belts, and coats/jackets (not required with TSA PreCheck for light jackets and belts)
4. Airport Security Tips
- Traveling with children: Take infants and small children out of carriers during screening
- Choose the right lane: Look for family lanes, premium passenger lanes, or TSA PreCheck lanes. Otherwise, choose lines with business travelers over families
- Free reservation systems: Some airports (LAX, JFK T4, Newark, MSP, Orlando) offer free advance booking to skip lines up to 72 hours ahead
- Off-peak travel: Travel during off-peak hours – early mornings, late evenings, and midweek flights tend to be less crowded with shorter lines
Final Thoughts on How to Get Through Security Fast
With these simple preparation steps and strategic choices, you’ll transform your airport experience from stressful to seamless.
Check out more helpful travel guides:
Find more travel tips and guides on our blog to make every trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Vacation Travel Planning Guide:
**🚑 Do I need travel insurance?
100% YES! — Visitors need travel insurance for emergencies. I recommend SafetyWing.
**🚙💨 How to get around whilst traveling?
By Car: Renting a car through DiscoverCars gives you the freedom to explore charming hilltop towns and vineyards at your own pace.
By Train: For travel between major cities, trains are efficient and affordable – book tickets through Omio.
**📲 Will my phone work in another country?
Maybe — But you might come back to massive bill as it might be pricey. For the best experience, I recommend getting an SIM Card online before you travel.
**🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodation?
My go-to for hotels is Booking.com. However we often prefer a more authentic experience, and book apartments and homes through VRBO.
**✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights?
For finding cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
