Pro tips to help you navigate airport security more quickly

The most frustrating aspect of your journey can often be the lengthy wait in line at the airport security checkpoint, especially when you get selected for extra screening. Fortunately, you can avoid much of this hassle. Here are some expert recommendations to help you pass through airport security faster and with less stress.

Pack wisely and choose the right attire for the security process.

You can expedite your passage through airport security by making it easier for Transportation Security Administration officers to fulfill their responsibilities of preventing dangerous items like explosives and firearms from entering the airport. Avoid overstuffing your carry-on bag to minimize the likelihood of it needing inspection. Keep your electronics and toiletries readily accessible in case they need to be removed. Additionally, wear clothing layers and shoes that can be quickly taken off.

Using TSA Precheck, Clear, or making a reservation can expedite your passage through airport security.

A guaranteed way to enhance your airport security experience is to sign up for TSA Precheck and/or Clear for your outbound journey, along with Global Entry for your return from international travels.

TSA Precheck is a paid membership program available at over 200 airports and more than 90 airlines, designed to expedite vetted travelers through dedicated lanes where they can keep shoes, belts, and jackets on, and leave laptops and toiletries in their bags. Clear, another paid service, offers identity verification at more than 50 airports (as well as some stadiums and venues). Clear members with TSA PreCheck jump to the front of the fast lane, while those without TSA PreCheck skip ahead in the regular lanes, ensuring a quicker experience for both.

An often-overlooked option is the free reservation service for security checkpoints, available at 20 airports across North America and Europe, including Seattle, Denver, New York (JFK), Orlando, London (Heathrow), Amsterdam, Berlin, and Rome. This time-saving program is perfect for travelers without TSA PreCheck or Clear memberships, allowing you to schedule a reserved time for a dedicated checkpoint.

Arrive on schedule. Or better yet, ahead of time.

It might feel a bit odd, but arriving at the airport earlier than expected could actually help you pass through security more quickly. With an increase in travelers—especially during holidays, festivals, and special events—even TSA PreCheck lines can stretch into the terminal. Check your airport’s website or social media for peak travel alerts and aim to navigate through security during quieter times.

Make the most of your waiting time at the security checkpoint.

While you’re stuck in a lengthy security line, you could check your email or chat with other passengers. However, it’s more beneficial to ensure your boarding pass and ID are ready, and that you and your belongings are set for the checkpoint. Keep your toiletries bag at the top of your carry-on, take off your coat, and clear your pockets to avoid multiple scans.

Think you’re done? Not just yet.

Many travelers unload their pockets into a bin at the security checkpoint, sending wallets, smartphones, jewelry, lucky charms, and other small belongings through the x-ray machine for everyone to see.

Avoid doing this. Your valuables can easily be picked up by someone else at the other end of the conveyor belt—either by accident or on purpose—especially if the line gets congested, and you might forget to grab an important item.

Familiarize yourself with TSA’s dos and don’ts.

Even seasoned travelers can stumble over TSA’s list of what is allowed in your carry-on bag. While firearms and explosives (even toy ones) are strictly banned, you might wonder about bringing souvenir baseball bats, golf clubs, cranberry sauce, live lobsters, or antlers. The TSA’s “What Can I Bring” tool can provide most answers and will respond through text, Facebook Messenger, and other channels about additional items you’re thinking of including in your carry-on.

Be courteous. Avoid making bomb jokes.

Working as a TSA officer isn’t exactly a joyride. They have the serious task of identifying firearms, explosives, and other banned items, all while handling travelers who are often stressed and unfriendly. A friendly smile, a kind word, or a brief conversation can greatly enhance their day and help expedite the process if a bag needs inspection or a pat-down is necessary.

Explore alternative checkpoint lanes.

At certain airports, you must use the security checkpoint that corresponds with your departure concourse. However, in many cases, you can access any terminal, concourse, and gate once you pass through any security checkpoint. Just like the in-flight safety briefing reminds you that the nearest exit might be behind you, remember that if you face a lengthy security line, another checkpoint might provide a quicker route into the terminal.

Utilize your airport’s website or app to find all the security checkpoints, their operating hours, and identify which ones accommodate TSA Precheck or Clear members, as well as premium travelers in some cases.

Monitor wait times at various security checkpoints.

Before heading to a different checkpoint or having someone drop you off in hopes of a quicker line, check the security line wait times using the My TSA App or the live updates posted by individual airports.

Learn how to obtain a pass to access airport security even if you're not flying.

Each airline has its own regulations, but by calling ahead or visiting your airline’s website, you might secure a gate pass or escort pass to accompany a child or someone needing additional assistance. Be ready to complete a form in advance, bring a government-issued ID to the airport, and go through the security screening process.

Some airports allow non-ticketed travelers to request a gate pass to access the secure area, enabling them to meet arriving passengers, spend more time with someone before their flight, or enjoy shopping and dining in the terminals. Airports like Seattle, New Orleans, Orlando (Terminal C), Detroit, Tulsa, OK, and Ontario, CA, currently provide this service. Typically, you’ll need to apply online before your visit, and once TSA approves you, an email confirmation—often including a QR code—will be sent to present along with your ID at the designated checkpoint.

The creation of this guide

As a seasoned travel journalist, I find joy in spending time at airports, which I view as modern crossroads showcasing the drama, anticipation, and excitement of travel. This guide is the result of years spent understanding airport operations, undergoing countless checkpoint inspections and pat-downs, and participating in enlightening training sessions with official TSA officers.