Owais Crawford
Long lines at airports can be frustrating and tiresome. Luckily, there are several ways to avoid them. One way is to upgrade your seat or join a security clearance program such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which offer faster security screening processes. Additionally, you can check-in online and limit yourself to carry-on luggage to skip the bag-check line. Choosing to fly during off-peak times and through smaller airports can also help reduce wait times. Some airports and airlines also offer expedited security options for a fee, such as priority access or reserved spots in security lines.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use a credit card that reimburses the application fee for security clearance programs | TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR Plus |
| Fly during off-peak times | Morning flights, non-holiday travel seasons |
| Fly in or out of a smaller airport | |
| Fly in premium class or earn elite frequent flyer status | |
| Use automatic kiosks and smartphone apps for check-in | |
| Upgrade your seat |
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What You'll Learn
Join a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
Joining a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can be a great way to avoid long lines at airports. These programs offer expedited security screening processes, allowing members to speed through security without the usual hassles and delays.
TSA PreCheck is a government-run trusted traveler program that allows members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 US airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can leave on your shoes, belt, light jacket, and even keep your laptop in your bag. The application process is straightforward and can be completed online in just five minutes, followed by a quick in-person appointment for identity verification and fingerprinting. Once approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you enter when booking flights to ensure you get the TSA PreCheck logo on your boarding pass.
Global Entry is another trusted traveler program that offers even more benefits. In addition to TSA PreCheck privileges, Global Entry members returning to the US from abroad can skip the general customs line. Instead, they scan their passport or permanent resident card at a kiosk, complete a customs declaration, and scan their fingerprints, saving significant time. Global Entry is ideal for those who travel internationally at least four times a year. The application process is more extensive and includes an interview, but it's well worth it for frequent travelers.
Both programs have an associated cost, with Global Entry costing $120 for five years of membership. However, some credit card companies offer statement credits to offset these fees. Additionally, TSA PreCheck members interested in switching to Global Entry must enroll as new applicants and pay the enrollment fee.
By enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you can significantly reduce your time spent in airport lines, making your travel experience smoother and less stressful.
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Fly in premium class or earn elite frequent flyer status
Flying in premium class or having elite frequent flyer status can be a great way to skip the long lines at airports. While it may cost more, it can save you a lot of time and hassle.
Most airlines offer priority lines for premium ticket holders, allowing you to bypass the standard check-in process. This can be especially useful if you're travelling with family, as some airlines also offer early boarding for premium passengers.
If you're a frequent flyer, consider signing up for an airline's loyalty program. These programs often provide elite status or VIP benefits, such as free upgrades, bonus miles, early boarding, flight discounts, and access to airport lounges. To achieve elite status, you typically need to accumulate a certain number of Elite Qualifying Dollars, Miles, or Segments. This is based on your spending with the airline, the physical distance flown, or the number of flight segments flown.
Some airlines, like Delta, offer premium co-brand credit cards that earn you MQDs (Medallion Qualification Dollars) through everyday spending. These cards can give you a head start towards elite status and provide benefits such as bonus miles and companion certificates.
Additionally, look into trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and NEXUS. These programs offer expedited security processing for a fee and can save you time at the airport.
Remember that each airline's elite program is different, so research which one best suits your needs and travel patterns. Achieving elite status can be costly and time-consuming, but it may be worth it for the convenience and comfort it provides.
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Avoid busy travel seasons and times of day
One of the most effective ways to avoid long lines at airports is to strategically plan your travel dates and times. Here are some tips to help you navigate the airport with minimal wait times:
Avoid peak travel seasons
Try to avoid peak travel seasons such as Christmas, New Year, Easter, and
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Choose a morning flight instead of an afternoon flight
Choosing a morning flight instead of an afternoon flight can help you avoid long lines at the airport in several ways. Firstly, morning flights are less likely to be delayed. According to Expedia's 2023 Air Travel Hacks Report, flights departing in the morning face fewer delays compared to those taking off in the afternoon and evening. This is because airspace is less crowded in the mornings, as all the previous day's flights have already landed. As the day progresses, planes start building up and waiting for takeoff, leading to air traffic congestion and subsequent delays.
Secondly, morning flights tend to have better on-time records. This is because planes are prepped overnight, and any delays from previous flights do not affect them. Additionally, if your morning flight is cancelled or you miss your flight, there is a higher chance of getting rebooked on another flight on the same day.
Thirdly, morning flights generally have fewer passengers. Many travellers prefer to avoid the inconvenience of early wake-up calls, resulting in lighter passenger loads. Consequently, security lines and check-in counters are less busy, even at larger airports.
Lastly, depending on your destination, booking a morning flight may also save you money. According to data compiled by Kayak for Travel + Leisure in 2023, the cheapest international flights departing from the US take off between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m. These early morning flights are, on average, 13% cheaper than flights departing in the early afternoon.
Therefore, choosing a morning flight can significantly enhance your travel experience by reducing potential delays, providing better on-time performance, offering less crowded airports and flights, and even saving you money.
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$17.97 $21.99
Fly out of a smaller, less centrally-located airport
If you're travelling through a major city, you may be able to avoid the longest lines and crowds by flying out of a smaller, less centrally-located airport. Many big cities have multiple airports, so it's worth checking if there's an alternative option that's likely to be quieter.
While smaller airports may not have the same range of facilities as their larger counterparts, they can offer a more relaxed and efficient travel experience, especially if you're looking to avoid the crowds.
It's worth noting that smaller airports may have fewer flights and more limited destinations, so you may need to be flexible with your travel plans. Additionally, they may be further away from your final destination, so be sure to factor in the extra travel time and cost when making your decision.
To find out if there's a smaller, less centrally-located airport that suits your needs, you can search online or speak to a travel agent. They can provide advice on the best options for your specific journey and help you weigh the benefits of convenience and reduced lines against any potential drawbacks.
By choosing a smaller airport, you can take control of your travel experience, reduce waiting times, and start your trip with less stress and more time to relax and enjoy your journey.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to avoid long lines at the airport. Firstly, you can upgrade your fare or join a security clearance program such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Clear. These programs offer separate and faster security screening processes, allowing you to skip the general security lines. Additionally, consider flying during off-peak times or choosing a morning flight instead of an afternoon flight to avoid busy travel periods.
Security clearance programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear offer expedited security screening at airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can access separate and typically shorter security lanes at participating airports. Global Entry provides additional benefits, including expedited entry through U.S. customs when returning from international travel. Clear is a biometric-based option that gets you to the front of the screening line.
To enrol in TSA PreCheck, you can submit an online application via the Department of Homeland Security website. The cost is \$85 for a five-year membership. For Global Entry, you need to submit an online application and schedule an in-person interview. Global Entry costs \$100 for a five-year membership and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. Clear is a private membership programme that offers expedited security screening at select airports. You can enrol by providing your personal information and payment details on their website.
Yes, in addition to security clearance programs, there are a few other strategies to consider:
- Check-in online and limit yourself to carry-on luggage to skip the bag-check line and baggage claim.
- Choose a less busy airport or a smaller airport in big cities with multiple airports.
- Monitor wait times via apps and choose less congested travel periods.
- Dress appropriately and pack efficiently to speed up the screening process.
