Editor’s note: This article has been refreshed with the latest details.
Going through airport security is rarely enjoyable, regardless of how often you travel. However, it doesn’t have to be a source of stress.
Long lines, complex regulations, and disorganized passengers—including yourself—can significantly delay your progress at security. The secret to navigating this process quickly and easily lies in proper preparation and exploring fast-track options before you arrive at the airport.
Fortunately, there are often alternatives to those lengthy queues, and we’re here to guide you on how to minimize your wait time.
Here are 10 strategies for speeding through airport security.
Enroll in Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
For frequent flyers, Global Entry—which includes TSA PreCheck—is an invaluable asset. It allows passengers to use designated kiosks for a quick clearance through U.S. Customs and Border Protection after international trips.
You can expedite the process further with the Global Entry mobile app, enabling travelers to confirm their U.S. arrival through the app instead of at kiosks.
Global Entry is available at over 75 airports, with a $120 application fee that covers a five-year membership once approved.
TSA PreCheck provides access to expedited security lines with simplified measures—you’re allowed to leave on your shoes, belt, and light jacket, while your laptop and liquids under 3.4 ounces can remain in your bag. Over 200 airports support TSA PreCheck, and more than 90 airlines participate.
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There are three enrollment partners for TSA PreCheck: Idemia, Clear, and Telos. The cost varies depending on how you apply; for first-time members, a five-year TSA PreCheck membership ranges from $76.75 (Idemia) to $85 (Telos). Online renewals cost around $58.75 to $70, while in-person renewals range from $66.75 to $77.95 depending on the provider.
Related: 8 ways to access free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear
If you don’t currently have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, consider checking your wallet for credit cards that may reimburse application fees up to $120 every few years. Cards that often cover these fees include The Platinum Card® from American Express, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, and the United℠ Explorer Card.
Related: Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: What’s more beneficial?
Consider Clear Plus
If you believe Clear is unnecessary due to your TSA PreCheck status, it may be time to reconsider. This relatively new program aims to further streamline the security screening process and is currently available in 59 airports nationwide. Clear uses biometric technology, such as fingerprint and iris scans, to accelerate the identification process at airport security points, stadiums, and other venues.
A Clear Plus membership combined with TSA PreCheck can allow you to breeze through security in under five minutes at most airports.
The membership cost is $199 annually, with options to add up to three additional adults for $119 each, and children under 18 can join for free. Flying Frugal readers can currently enjoy a complimentary two-month trial.
There are ways to offset the costs or even access Clear Plus for a longer duration at no charge. Members of Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus can get Clear Plus for $189 annually without elite status or $159 with. Those with top-tier elite status, such as Delta Diamond Medallion or United 1K members, receive Clear Plus for free. The Amex Platinum Card and the American Express® Green Card offer an annual reimbursement of up to $199 for Clear Plus; enrollment is required.
The information regarding the American Express Green Card has been independently sourced by The Points Guy and has not been verified or provided by the card issuer.
Related: The benefits of getting TSA PreCheck and Clear—and tips for saving on both
Book Your Spot in Line
An increasing number of airports now permit you to book your spot in the security queue ahead of time, often without needing a specific membership. In some cases, there may be a fee, but occasionally it is complimentary.
For instance, at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B in New York City, you can purchase a B-Fast pass for $15 or $20, granting you access to a shorter line—the higher fee allows immediate entry.
Orlando International Airport (MCO), known for its lengthy security lines during peak travel, allows free reservations through Clear’s Reserve program, without requiring Clear membership. Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London also offers a fast-track security option that can be prebooked for about 12.50 British pounds (about $16).
Research your departure airport online to find options for reserving spots in line, as procedures vary across locations.
Fly in Premium Class
Traveling in first or business class provides not just a better in-flight experience but also grants priority access to faster security lines at certain airports, potentially reducing your wait times at TSA checkpoints with “Premier Access” signage.
Airlines offering this benefit include:
- Alaska Airlines: First-class passengers
- American Airlines: Business-class, first-class, and premium economy passengers
- Delta Air Lines: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, and first-class passengers
- JetBlue: EvenMore, Blue Extra, and Mint passengers
- Southwest Airlines: Business Select and Anytime fare passengers
- United Airlines: United Polaris business class, United First, United Business, and United Premium Plus
- British Airways: Business-class passengers at LHR, London Gatwick Airport (LGW), and JFK
Related: 7 Business Class Travel Tips From One First-Timer to Another
Achieve Airline Elite Status
If you lack TSA PreCheck or Clear Plus and are not flying in a premium class, you can still occasionally access expedited security through elite airline status. This benefit typically extends to companions traveling with the elite member, so it’s worth considering bringing someone along.
Passengers with elite status in the following programs may qualify for expedited access, though availability varies by airport:
- Alaska Airlines: MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP 100K members
- American Airlines: AAdvantage Gold, AAdvantage Platinum, AAdvantage Platinum Pro, and AAdvantage Executive Platinum members
- Delta Air Lines: Gold Medallion, Platinum Medallion, and Diamond Medallion members
- JetBlue: TrueBlue Mosaic members
- Southwest Airlines: A-List and A-List Preferred members
- United Airlines: Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K members
Related: The best airline credit cards
Pack Efficiently
There’s nothing worse than being caught behind someone at security who is meticulously emptying their pockets of change and spare items into the trays before trying to repack everything later.
To avoid this hassle, keep coins, lighters, and small items in a bag and clear out any unnecessary rubbish from your pockets beforehand. Make sure to place liquid toiletries in sealed plastic bags as required; take them out before approaching the checkpoint or have them easily accessible in your bag. Laptops and other items needing removal should also be readily available.
Related: 7 packing tips for maximizing space in your luggage
Dress Wisely
While dressing well won’t get you to the front of the line, travelers know that certain clothing choices can slow you down. Avoid the individual who holds up the queue by wearing easy-to-remove shoes, avoiding complex accessories, and opting for jackets with large pockets to quickly store items after passing through security.
Understand the Security Rules
Note that you need to remove your laptop from its case and place it into a separate bin if you’re not in a TSA PreCheck lane. All liquids in your carry-on should be stored in a clear plastic bag (here’s more on the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule). Make sure to dispose of any liquid-filled plastic bottles and empty your reusable ones before your turn in line.
Finally, once you pass through the metal detectors, collect your belongings from the conveyor belt as quickly as possible and regroup away from the screening area. The faster you clear your items, the quicker everyone can proceed through the line.
Monitor Security Wait Times
Consider using apps to track security wait times at your airport, such as JetHub and MyTSA. These tools enable you to check line status several hours before your flight, allowing you to make informed decisions about when to arrive. Many airports also post this information on their websites. Keep in mind, however, that conditions can shift rapidly, so always allow extra time beyond what the wait time indicates when planning your arrival.
Related: 30 essential travel apps every traveler should have
Travel at Optimal Times
Avoid traveling during peak times when security lines tend to be the longest. Although backups can occur at any moment, busy periods typically include the start and end of long weekends and holiday travel.
Related: Why Traveling During ‘Dead Weeks’ is Ideal
Final Thoughts
Although airport travel can be hectic during busy seasons, there are various methods to expedite your security experience compared to other travelers.
Signing up for TSA PreCheck and/or Clear Plus is our top recommendation for quicker security navigation, but several other techniques can also facilitate the process. Being a knowledgeable traveler is crucial for maintaining your sanity while traversing the airport.
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