If you've ever travelled abroad, you might have noticed that getting through the land side of the airport can sometimes be a hectic and anxiety-inducing endeavour. One of the most stressful segments can be passing the security checkpoint, where many rules need to be followed, and regulations observed. 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 adage goes. Most airports advise arriving on airport grounds at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
If you want to streamline your journey through security, preparation is key. This means that getting there early might allow you to avoid the rush of passengers before your flight, and 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 applicable, you could also use an online check-in service which is offered at some airports, for some airlines. We encourage you to check this before you travel, as it might allow you to skip queues and save time.
In your cabin baggage, we suggest using packing cubes or clear bags to compartmentalize your items so you can quickly remove what's needed for screening. Remember that any electronics such as laptops and power banks will likely need to be removed and scanned separately so pack them near the top.
You are also going to need to remove any liquids, gels, and aerosols to prove that they meet the requirements set by the airport. (Containers must be 3.4 ounces/100 millilitres or smaller, and placed in a quart-sized clear plastic bag.)
We advise that if you want to expedite your passage through airport security, you wear easily removed accessories and footwear. Avoid belts, jewellery, or shoes that are difficult to take off and put back on. This means in the case of inspection you won't have to stop for long before continuing with your journey.
Lots of airports around the world have begun to offer a security fast-tracking scheme. This pass gives you access to a fast-track lane, skipping all queues which slow down your passage through security. 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.
We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines
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:
