Spend more time relaxing at your gate and less time worrying about missing your flight! Prepare yourself with these helpful tips and learn how to get through airport security faster. From packing advice to Trusted Traveler Programs, we've got you covered.
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Packing Tips
Packing smart is a great way to get through airport security faster. Here are a few things to consider.
Electronic Devices
You will have to place your electronic devices into a separate tray for X-ray screening. Grouping your devices in one bag is a good way to speed up that process so that you can take them all out at the same time.
Liquids
Liquid containers (this includes non-solid food) must be under 100 ml and fit in a small, clear, one quart-sized, closed resealable bag. Preparing that in advance will ensure you can make it through security faster and help you avoid the unnecessary stress of saying goodbye to any of your favorite products. Emptying your water bottle before security and refilling it after is also a good idea.
Get more packing tips: The Ultimate Vacation Packing List
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Timing
While planning your timing won't get you through airport security faster, a better understanding of airport regulations can help you feel more prepared.
International VS Domestic Flights
How early you should get to the airport depends on a few factors, like whether you are checking bags or checking in online beforehand. However, according to Delta, getting to the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic one in the United States is generally recommended. If you are located in Canada, recommendations are similar but slightly shorter, with 2-3 hours for an international flight and 60 minutes for a domestic flight.
Security Times
Checking online security times beforehand can give you a better sense of what to expect and how early you should get to the airport to get through it smoothly. The TSA app provides data to check airport security wait times, or you can also check specific airport wait times on their respective websites (like this Montreal one!)
Peak Flying Times
Another helpful tip is to look into the usual peak flying times. Booking flights around slower flying times is one of the simplest ways to get through airport security faster. Mid-week and early mornings are generally quieter.
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Trusted Traveler Programs
The US Customs and Border Protection offers a variety of Trusted Traveler Programs that can help you get through airport security faster. You can use their online tool to find which one suits your needs and compare prices, or read on for a short breakdown.
TSA PreCheck
This is a great option if you are a US citizen/national or permanent resident. TSA PreCheck is slightly lower cost and allows you to benefit from streamlined security screening at US airports.
NEXUS
NEXUS speeds up travel between Canada and the US. If you frequently travel between those destinations, this is an excellent option. It is available to US and Canadian citizens/permanent residents and Mexican nationals. It may also include TSA PreCheck.
Global Entry
Global Entry might be better suited for your needs if you are a US citizen or permanent resident who travels internationally frequently. It streamlines the international arrival process and includes TSA PreCheck. It is also available to select foreign nationals.
Sentri
Sentri can help speed up the process if you are traveling between the US and Mexico, and it also includes other benefits. It is available to US citizens/permanent residents and all foreign nationals and may include TSA PreCheck.
Clear
Clear is not part of the Trusted Traveler Programs. It is a separate membership program that helps members verify their identities through biometric technology. Clear also allows you to apply to TSA PreCheck directly through them.
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Clothing
It's time to dress the part! Strategically choosing your clothes can help you speed through the lines. Here are a few items to consider.
Slip-on Shoes
You'll likely be asked to remove your shoes and place them on the X-ray belt. Wearing shoes that are easy to remove will help with that. Consider wearing slip-on shoes.
Fanny Pack
Wearing a fanny pack or a bag with a small front pocket can be very helpful in storing your ID and boarding pass and making them easily accessible at all times. It can also be beneficial in carrying other smaller objects, as your pockets should be empty when making your way through security.
Metallic Jewelry
Metallic pieces can trigger the alarm at airport security. Limiting jewelry to smaller pieces can be a safer bet, so you are not slowed down making it through the process.
Congrats, you now know how to get through airport security as smoothly as possible! While you wait at your gate, remember to get an eSIM from Airalo so you can instantly connect to a mobile network at your destination. With access to eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions, the Airalo app (iOS | Android) is easy to use and created to help you save on roaming fees.
