Flying can be a stressful adventure with checking bags, going through security, moving through the airport, the list goes on. Sometimes security can be the worst part with long lines and confusion. Here some tips to speed up and make security a little easier.
1. Have your boarding pass and i.d./passport in an accessible place.
Your wallet is not the best place to put these items. While your boarding pass and i.d. or passport may be safe there, in the end you are going to fumble around in your wallet when you get up to the desk. The best thing to do is put them in your pocket or hold on to them. You will be able to pull them out easily and quickly at the TSA desk. When you go through the scanners just put your ticket and i.d. in one the bins you put your bags go in.
2. When packing be mindful of carryon rules.
Know the limits of the liquids and items that can and cannot be brought on the plane in your carryon. If you are not sure about an item pack it in checked luggage or leave it at home. Knowing this will prevent you from having to go back and check items or having your bagged searched which inevitably holds up the line and you. Also, know how many carry-on items you are allowed to bring.
3. Pack items you need pull out on top.
TSA requires people to pull out their electronics and place them in a bin. First of all, only bring with you what you will really need. Do you really need your laptop and your iPad? Probably not. Next, pack your electronics near each other in order to grab them easily. Put chargers and small items in a plastic bag and put on top. This way you don't have to dig down to the bottom of your bag to find that charger.(and you wont lose that charger either!!) Do the same with any liquids you have, put them together in plastic bag on top.
4. While in line prep yourself.
It doesn't matter how many signs or TSA officials say empty your pockets, some one will walk through the scanner with something in their pocket. We have all done it at some point, if we are being honest. So, instead of wasting time waiting in line take things out your cloth's pockets, unzip or slip feet out of shoes, take off outer coats/scarves.
5. Don't repack your bags right after you go through security.
Usually there are tables or benches behind security. Grab your stuff and move out of the way. You can take your time reorganizing your bag and putting your shoes on. This will allow others to move through security and you wont feel rushed trying to gather all your stuff up.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
