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Travel Tips

10 Ways to Simplify Airport Check-in and Security


Navigating the airport is stressful. Fortunately, there are things you can do to streamline the process and get to the boarding gate with peace of mind.

1. Take a mental snapshot of your bags when you’re finished packing. You might have to remove something if your checked luggage is overweight or if your bags require additional screening at the security checkpoint.

2. Check-in before you arrive at the airport. You can change seats, pay for checked luggage, and select upgrades either online or through the mobile apps.

3. Take a screenshot of your boarding pass and save it to your phone. You can open your photo album faster than the mobile app opens and loads your boarding pass.

4. Have your identification and boarding pass ready before you reach the TSA officer. Searching for things in the security line is frustrating to both the TSA officers and the passengers waiting behind you.

5. Make sure you enter the correct security checkpoint lane. If you have TSA Pre-Check or some other form of priority security screening, it must appear on your boarding pass.

6. Empty your pockets and remove your belt before putting other items in the plastic bins. Your belt could set off the metal detector and the coins in your pocket will appear on the body scanner.

7. Wear shoes that you can easily slip on and off. Remove your shoes and have them ready to put in the plastic bin when it’s your turn.

8. Make sure your liquids and electronics are easily accessible. Putting these items in your backpack or handbag ensures you can quickly pull them out when you grab a plastic bin.

9. Collect your belongings when they come out of the X-ray scanner and quickly step out of the way. Don’t hold up the line trying to get dressed and repack your bags.

10. Pay attention to the screens if your bags are pulled for additional inspection. You may be able to identify the item in question before the officer takes your bag for manual screening.

Be smart, stay safe, and have fun!