10 Ways to Simplify Airport Check-in and Security
Navigating the airport is stressful. You enter through the door that has your airline’s name, but the ticket counters are actually five doors down. The frequent flier behind you makes you feel incompetent while the large group in front of you slows things down. Signs everywhere point you in different directions that somehow end at the same place. If you arrive too early, your flight isn’t on the departures screen. If you arrive too late, you can’t print your boarding pass. It can be overwhelming for even the most seasoned travelers. Fortunately, there are things you can do to streamline the process and get to the boarding gate with peace of mind.
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. Know where things are packed so you can access them quickly if needed
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. Checking-in before you arrive allows you to skip the check-in counter and go straight to bag drop or the security checkpoint.
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.
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. Have these items in hand and remember that each passenger over the age of 18 must be holding their own boarding pass and identification.
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. You can’t go through priority security without the proper designation. The last thing you want to happen when you’re trying to catch a flight is to end up at the back of another line.
Empty your pockets and remove your belt before putting other items in the plastic bins.
There are signs everywhere reminding you to remove shoes, liquids, and electronics. But your belt could set off the metal detector and the coins in your pocket will appear on the body scanner. Take care of the little items first to avoid multiple trips through these machines.
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. Don’t hold up the line trying to unlace hiking boots at the last minute.
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. If you must pack them in your carry-on luggage, place them towards the top so that you can access them without unzipping the entire bag.
Collect your belongings when they come out of the X-ray scanner and quickly step out of the way.
There are usually chairs or tables available where you can comfortably get yourself organized after you’ve been screened. In some cases, you can carry the plastic bins with you to this area. In any case, don’t hold up the line trying to get dressed and repack your bags. It’s cumbersome for you and frustrating to everyone around you.
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. You can’t touch your bags while they’re being inspected, but some TSA officers will appreciate you telling them what they’re looking for. They’ll still inspect your bag, but it expedites the process if you can point them in the right direction.
Be smart, stay safe, and have fun!