If you've ever travelled abroad, you'll probably agree that airport security can often feel like a stressful and time-consuming part of your travel experience. However, with the right strategies and a bit of planning, you can breeze through the process and focus on the excitement of your journey.
In this guide, we will give you some top tips to get through security quickly and ensure you have a smooth and comfortable experience.
The early bird catches their flight, as the old saying goes. If you want to streamline your journey through security, preparation is key. Getting there early means you'll be less stressed, knowing you won't miss your gate announcement. Most airports have amenities like restaurants or shops on the airside where you can relax while you wait for your flight.
If available, consider using an online check-in service offered by some airports and airlines. Check ahead of time to see if this option is available at your airport, as it can help you skip check-in queues and save valuable time.
How you pack your cabin bags can greatly impact your time in security lines. To make your packing more efficient, we suggest using packing cubes or clear bags to separate your items so you can quickly remove what's needed for screening.
Tip: use TSA-approved locks to secure your luggage while allowing inspections without damage, and TSA-compliant clear toiletry bags to speed up security screening.
What you wear can make a huge difference in how long you spend at security. We advise that if you want to expedite your passage through airport security, you wear easily removed accessories and footwear.
Slip-on shoes are the best option for going through security, as they can be easily removed and put back on. Avoid wearing metal accessories like belts, jewellery, or watches, as they’ll likely set off the metal detectors, adding extra time to your screening.
Opt for comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing, especially if you’re travelling during colder months. You may need to take off layers such as jackets or sweaters, so avoid complicated clothing items that take extra time to remove.
Many airports around the world offer a security fast-tracking scheme. This pass gives you access to a fast-track lane, allowing you to skip queues. The price and availability vary from airport to airport, but most will require you to book in advance, and then show your ticket upon arrival at the security gate.
It's important to remember that even in this fast-track lane, all security measures and procedures will be observed, and the advice above should still be followed for an expedited journey.
Many airports and airlines have developed mobile apps to streamline the security process. For example, Mobile Passport Control allows U.S. travellers to submit their passport information and customs declaration via an app, speeding up the immigration process. Always check ahead to see if your airport offers similar apps for your journey.
One of the best ways to get through airport security quickly is to enrol in expedited security programs. These are designed to streamline the process, making it faster and more efficient to catch your flight.
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveller program that allows you to go through a dedicated security lane with fewer requirements. No need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets, and you can keep your laptop and liquids in your bag.
How to Enrol: You’ll need to fill out an application, provide fingerprints, and pay a fee. The process includes an in-person interview, but once approved, you’ll be able to use the expedited security lanes at participating airports.
CLEAR Plus takes it a step further by using biometric identification (fingerprints or retina scans) to speed up identity verification. CLEAR allows you to bypass the ID check and go straight to the security screening.
How to Enrol: Enrolment takes just a few minutes at a CLEAR kiosk in participating airports. You’ll need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and/or retina scan) to create your profile.
Programs like Global Entry and NEXUS offer similar benefits for international travellers. Global Entry expedites customs checks when entering the U.S. from abroad, and NEXUS is great for travel between the U.S. and Canada.
Always check the airport’s website or app for updates on security rules, wait times, and any special instructions before your trip. Some airports may have specific guidelines that could help you plan.
If you’re traveling during holidays or peak vacation times, expect longer lines and crowded terminals. To combat this, try to fly during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, when airports tend to be less busy.
From 7 May 2025, US travellers over the age of 18 will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification when boarding domestic flights. Drivers licenses and state-issued identity cards will only be considered REAL ID-compliant if the cards feature a star (and/or flag) or say "Enhanced". Other acceptable forms of ID accepted at TSA Checkpoints include a US passport or US passport card, and DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST).
Please be mindful that if you aren't able to provide a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, you will not be permitted through the security checkpoint. These new security standards may also mean that your journey through airport security could take longer than usual.
A study conducted by Bounce analysed TSA wait times across various US airports, revealing the shortest average wait times for security screening. Among the top-ranked airports for efficiency:
Skytrax's World's Best Airport Security award highlights airports that provide exceptional security screening experiences. These rankings are based on multiple aspects of security screening, including waiting times, queuing systems, priority lanes, smart security options, efficiency and courtesy of security staff, preparation, and repacking facilities.
The top 5 airports awarded in 2024 were:
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The 3-1-1 rule is a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulation that limits the amount of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes that passengers can bring in their carry-on bags:
3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) per item: Each item must be in a container that holds 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less
1 quart-sized bag: All containers must fit into a single quart-sized, clear, resealable bag
1 bag per passenger: Each passenger is allowed to bring one quart-sized bag through the security checkpoint
The 3-1-1 rule is in place to enhance security and limit the risk of dangerous liquids being brought on board aircraft. It applies to all passengers travelling within and departing from the United States and is also enforced in other countries as the 100ml rule.
No, 1.5 hours is usually not enough time to get through airport security
Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.
Factors that affect arrival time:
Flight type: International flights require more time for security checks, boarding, and immigration processes.
Rush hour: Some airports have rush hours, which can depend on the time of day or even the day of the week.
Layovers: If you're connecting flights, allow at least two hours of buffer time.
Budget airlines: Budget airlines like EasyJet or RyanAir have their own check-in deadlines and arrival time recommendations
Inhalers are allowed in your hand luggage at the airport, but you may need to remove them and place them in a clear plastic bag for separate scanning. It is also advised you keep a copy of your prescription on hand in case you need to access your inhaler during screening.
Liquids, aerosols, and gels
These include drinks, toiletries, cosmetics, and food items like jam and honey. You can only bring liquids in your hand luggage if they are in a clear, resealable plastic bag and are no more than 100 ml. You can bring prescribed liquid medications in a separate bag, but you'll need to show the security officer proof of prescription.
Mobility aids
You should put mobility aids like pushchairs and walking aids in a resealable plastic bag and keep it with you throughout the flight. You can't put them in your hold luggage or in your hand luggage after screening.
Other items that you can't bring on an aircraft include:
You can get through airport security quickly by following a few simple rules:
If you're concerned about missing your flight, contact your airline immediately. Some airlines offer standby or rebooking options for passengers delayed by security. Check out our page on what happens if you miss your flight for more information.
The time it takes to pass through airport security varies depending on the airport, time of day, and season. On average, TSA wait times in the U.S. range from 15 to 30 minutes for standard security lines and 5 to 10 minutes for TSA PreCheck. Some airports, like Palm Beach International Airport, have wait times as short as 5 minutes, while major international hubs can have peak wait times exceeding 45 minutes.
For international travel, it's recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure to allow for potential delays in security checks.
Yes, you can bring food through airport security, but there are some restrictions. Solid foods like sandwiches, snacks, fruits, and baked goods are generally allowed. However, liquid or gel-like foods (such as yogurt, soups, and sauces) must follow the 3-1-1 liquid rule, meaning they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and fit into a single quart-sized bag.
If you’re traveling internationally, be mindful of food restrictions at your destination, as certain items like fresh produce and meats may be prohibited upon arrival.
Yes, pregnant women can safely go through airport security, including body scanners and metal detectors. The millimeter-wave scanners and walk-through metal detectors used at security checkpoints emit low levels of electromagnetic energy, which pose no known risk to pregnancy. However, if you're uncomfortable with the scanners, you can request a manual pat-down screening instead, but please note that this may take longer.
See our page on advice for flying while pregnant for more information.
Most airports allow passengers to go through security as soon as check-in opens, which is usually 2-4 hours before a domestic flight and 3-6 hours before an international flight. Some airports, especially those open 24/7, allow passengers to pass through security even earlier. However, TSA and security checkpoints may close overnight at certain airports, so if you're planning to arrive extra early, it's best to check the specific airport's operating hours.
