Tips for a Speedier Trip Through The Airport

We get it: Nobody actually enjoys waiting in line at TSA for an hour. Nobody’s face has ever lit up in a smile because of a routine security patdown. Not one person in all of recorded history has uttered the words: “Oh boy, I get to wait in line for half an hour just to get a meal from McDonalds!” Of course, it is a fact: Everyone hates the lengthy airport wait times, but these are not concepts which go without retaliation. Let’s examine a few ways these obnoxious waits can be minimized, if not eliminated.

TSA PreCheck is Your Friend

For frequent domestic travelers, the $85 application fee for a TSA PreCheck option is well worth the wait. Skip the line, keep your shoes on, and opt out of the x-ray scanner. For global travelers, opt into the Global Entry program, which allows for a speedier trip through customs.

Organize Personal Items Before You Reach the Desk

You know the drill: ID on hand, liquids and laptops out to be put in bins and shoes come off. It makes the process easier for you and everyone around you, too.

Remember: You CAN Bring Food Through Security

While TSA does not want you carrying, say, an unwrapped hamburger, they are perfectly fine with closed food items which can be opened up and eaten inside of the airport or on the plane. This will save valuable time, which might otherwise be spent in line searching for food.

Bring a Book or Tablet to Pass Time

Although you might not technically make your trip any faster doing this, it will certainly feel faster during a lull. Having something fun to distract you from the boredom of waiting will no doubt make you feel you’ve gotten there more quickly.