Avoiding Crowds: Tips For A Stress-Free Airport Experience

Airports can be stressful places, and sometimes you just want to avoid people. There are several ways to do this, from joining a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, to opting for a carry-on bag instead of checked luggage. You can also avoid peak travel times and choose a quieter airport. If you're concerned about COVID-19, you can research the risks, look for signs of an unclean airport, and take appropriate precautions. To avoid people in general, consider upgrading your seat or joining an airline elite status program to gain access to priority security lines and boarding.

Avoid peak travel days and times

Airports are stressful places, and the crowds can be overwhelming. If you want to avoid the crowds, it's best to avoid peak travel days and times. This means steering clear of holidays and opting for off-peak travel instead. You'll encounter fewer people and may even save some money.

But how do you know when these peak times are? Well, you can start by choosing a morning flight instead of an afternoon one. Mornings tend to be less busy, and you can get through security faster. If you can, try to extend your trip by a day or two and travel on less busy days. For example, flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday is usually quieter than the weekends.

It's also a good idea to research the airport you'll be travelling through. Some airports are known for their long security lines, especially the big travel hubs. If you're travelling through a major city, you may have multiple airport options. Consider flying into or out of a smaller, less central airport to avoid the crowds.

Additionally, you can check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website. They publish a list of airports and the number of positive COVID-19 cases among their employees. If an airport has a high number of cases, it's likely to be busier and more crowded.

By planning your travel during off-peak times and days, you can significantly reduce the number of people you encounter at the airport. This not only makes your journey less stressful but also gives you more time to explore your destination or grab a bite to eat before your flight.

Opt for a carry-on instead of checked baggage

Opting for a carry-on bag instead of checked baggage can save you time and money. Firstly, you can skip the bag-check line before boarding your flight. Secondly, you won't have to wait at the baggage claim area once you land. Plus, you can avoid the risk of checked luggage being delayed or lost in transit.

However, it's important to ensure your carry-on bag meets your airline's weight and size restrictions. If you're travelling with liquids, they must be in containers that hold 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less and fit in a quart-size, clear plastic bag.

Travelling with just a carry-on bag can be stressful if you're not used to packing light. Your wardrobe will be limited, and you may find yourself constantly hand-washing your clothes. It can also be a hassle if you're navigating rough terrain or moving between accommodations frequently.

Ultimately, the decision between carry-on and checked baggage depends on your personal preferences, the length of your trip, and how much you're willing to lug around.

Dress simply to speed through security

Dressing simply can help you speed through security at the airport. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Firstly, loose clothing and slip-on shoes are ideal choices for travelling. Tight clothes can become uncomfortable during long periods of sitting on a flight, so opt for items that give you some breathing room. Slip-on shoes are convenient because you can remove and put them on again quickly, saving time at security. Sandals, sneakers, or flats are good options. However, avoid wearing shoes with metal, such as nails in high heels, as they can set off body scanners and will need to be scanned separately.

Secondly, avoid wearing belts, jewelry, or accessories made of metal. These items will likely need to be removed during the security screening, causing delays. If you must bring jewelry, consider packing it in your carry-on bag and putting it on after you've cleared security. The same goes for hair accessories – avoid metal hairpins or clips as they may also set off the scanners.

Thirdly, layers are your best friend when travelling. Wearing a sweater or jacket allows you to easily remove a layer and place it in a bin for screening, leaving you in a lighter layer that will pass through the scanner more efficiently.

Additionally, consider applying for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry if you're a frequent flyer. These programs offer expedited security screening at participating airports, and members usually don't need to remove their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets.

Lastly, remember that comfort is paramount when travelling. Opt for loose, breathable clothing that will keep you comfortable during your flight. By dressing simply and keeping these tips in mind, you can speed through airport security and start your trip with less hassle.

Be mindful of prohibited items

Being mindful of prohibited items is essential when travelling through an airport. Knowing what you can and cannot bring will help you avoid any issues at security checkpoints and ensure a smooth journey. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Plan ahead and pack properly: Review the lists of prohibited items provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before packing. This will help you avoid any surprises at the airport.
• Electronic devices: Ensure all your electronic devices are powered up, as powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. Also, be prepared to power up your devices if requested by security officers.
• Liquids: Any liquids you carry must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and must fit in a quart-size, clear plastic bag. This includes alcoholic beverages, contact lens solutions, hand sanitisers, etc.
• Medications: If you are travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medications, ensure you have the necessary documentation and follow the relevant guidelines for transporting them.
• Food items: Familiarise yourself with the restrictions on food items. For example, meat and meat products, including canned and dried meats, are prohibited from most foreign countries. Fresh fruits and vegetables may also be restricted, depending on your destination and origin.
• Dangerous items: Sharp objects, sporting equipment that can be used as a weapon, and defence sprays such as pepper spray are prohibited in carry-on baggage and must be checked.
• Firearms and ammunition: These items are heavily regulated and may be prohibited or restricted. Check the relevant guidelines and obtain any necessary permits or licences before your travel.
• International restrictions: When travelling internationally, research the specific restrictions of your destination country. Some items, such as certain types of alcohol, may be prohibited in certain countries.
• Prohibited imports: Familiarise yourself with items prohibited from being imported into the U.S., such as certain types of alcohol (absinthe), biological materials without permits, defence articles, and items with military applications.
• Prohibited exports: Likewise, some items are prohibited from being taken out of the U.S., such as gold coins, medals, and bullion from Cuba, Iran, Burma (Myanmar), and Sudan.

Remember, even if an item is generally permitted, it may still be prohibited if it triggers an alarm during screening, appears tampered with, or poses security concerns. Always check the latest guidelines and regulations before your travel to ensure you are aware of any changes or updates.

Understand TSA rules

To avoid people at the airport, it is important to understand the rules and regulations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Identification

Adult passengers aged 18 and above must present valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. Accepted IDs include a driver's license, state-issued photo ID card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), permanent resident card, foreign government-issued passport, transportation worker identification credential, and more. It is recommended to check the TSA website for the full list and further details. Additionally, TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to a year after their expiration date.

Screening Procedures

TSA incorporates unpredictable security measures to ensure the safety of passengers. These measures include carry-on and checked baggage screening, advanced imaging technology (AIT) for body scanning, and pat-downs. Passengers are advised to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in separate bins for X-ray screening. Food items are generally allowed but should follow specific guidelines for liquids, gels, and aerosols. Passengers with special medical equipment, prosthetics, or other assistive devices are advised to contact the TSA ahead of time to understand the relevant procedures.

TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry

TSA offers expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry, which allow passengers to skip the longer security lines and provide access to dedicated security lanes. These programs may be especially useful for those seeking to avoid crowds and long waits at the airport.

Liquids and Electronics

Passengers should be aware of the restrictions on liquids, gels, and aerosols. Any liquids carried onboard must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and fit in a quart-size, clear plastic bag. As for electronics, devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops and tablets, will need to be removed from carry-on bags and screened separately.

Prohibited Items

TSA has a list of prohibited items that are not allowed through security checkpoints. It is essential to familiarize yourself with this list before packing your carry-on luggage to avoid any issues at the airport.

By understanding and following TSA rules, passengers can streamline their airport experience, reduce potential delays, and minimize contact with other individuals. This knowledge will help you navigate security checkpoints more efficiently and safely, contributing to a smoother overall journey.

Frequently asked questions