Travel Tips

How to Make It through Airport Security without a Hassle

Probably the most annoying part of any travel is getting through the airport itself. In recent years, it's become time consuming and troublesome to make it through security stations, with regulations changing frequently and enforcement varying from place to place. We've always had to show up early to get through the line, but the amount of time it takes has increased significantly, making it hard to get through the checkpoint and to your plane on time. The goal is to keep planes safe, but most people dread having to go through the security station. The good news is that there are ways to speed up the process.

The first step is to plan carefully. You need to make certain that you know exactly how the vacation is going to go. This will reduce your stress level, since the majority of stresses on a trip are because your reservations aren't as they're supposed to be, your flight's been unexpectedly canceled, or the airline has lost your luggage. Planning ahead and showing up with lots of time and little stress can help you have a better time overall. Get up in plenty of time the morning before you're expected to leave, and don't feel like you have to rush. Avoid over scheduling yourself to make sure that you won't be in a hurry at the airport.

Get to the airport early, be friendly and helpful when talking to all personnel (they don't like the procedures any more than you do), and bring a book to read at the gate instead of showing up at the last minute. Remember - the more pleasant you are, the more pleasant other people will be, as well. You can all make one each other's day a whole lot easier if you're willing to cooperate. You'll be happier, and airport personnel will thank you.

Make sure that everything you need will be easy to get to in your pocket, luggage, or purse. Never pack so that you have to search through your bag to get identification or a boarding pass. It holds up the line, frustrates you, and may make security checks more unpleasant. Have all your information readily accessible and make it easier on you and on the line behind you, so that no one has to spend too much time waiting.

Pack smart, as well. Take the time to look up current regulations before you head to the airport and find out what you are and aren't allowed to take onto the plane. Some items are allowed as checked luggage, but not in a carryon. Go through your bags carefully before you leave to make sure there will be no accidents. Don't think you can sneak a bottle through or argue for special treatment - it's better to avoid the hassle in the first place. If you're not sure something is acceptable, leave it at home or put it in your checked bag just to be safe.

Dress intelligently, as well. You'll be expected to remove your shoes when you go through the checkpoint, so wear ones that can be taken off and put on again quickly and easily. If you can't do that, unlace your shoes while you're waiting in line, so that they can be pulled off without trouble. Don't wear clothing with metal detailing that will set off the metal detector (anything iron based will do it, but you may be asked to remove gold and silver jewelry, too), and avoid wearing lot of layers - you may seem suspicious. No one wants to be singled out for a search. It's annoying and takes a lot of time. Do your best to avoid it!

Before you enter the security check area, read all the signs and look for the quickest way through. Sometimes you don't need to get into the same line as others. There are airports that have special lines for frequent fliers and military personnel, for instance. Don't be afraid to ask staff where to go, and always listen to their instructions - you'll be surprised at how much faster your trip can be. Avoiding security hassles doesn't have to be hard. You just have to be prepared. If you plan ahead, know what you're doing, and are ready to be friendly and accommodating, you'll be on your plane in no time.