Breezing Through Airports: Skipping The Check-In Queue

Long lines at the airport can be frustrating, especially when you're in a hurry to catch a flight. Luckily, there are several ways to bypass the check-in process and make your travel experience smoother. One way is to take advantage of mobile check-in options provided by most airlines. By checking in online or through a mobile app, you can skip the desk queue and head straight to security, especially if you're travelling with only carry-on luggage. Even if you have checked bags, online check-in can speed up the process, allowing you to print bag tags at a kiosk and drop off your luggage.

Another option is to enrol in expedited security clearance programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which offer separate security screening lanes and allow you to keep your shoes, jackets, and laptops on without the need to remove liquids from your carry-on. These programs typically require an application, a fee, and an in-person appointment, but they can significantly reduce your wait time at security.

Additionally, some airlines provide upgraded tickets or membership programs that grant access to exclusive security lanes, dedicated check-in counters, and priority boarding. These options may be worth considering, especially during busy travel periods.

Lastly, some US airports offer free, scheduled security appointment programs, allowing travellers to reserve a time slot for screening and avoid long waits.

With a combination of these strategies, you can efficiently navigate through the airport and bypass the usual check-in queues.

Use the mobile app or website of the airline to check-in

Checking in online is a great way to bypass the check-in queues at the airport. Most airlines now offer check-in through their mobile apps or websites within 24 hours of departure, allowing passengers with carry-on luggage to proceed straight to security. Even if you have checked baggage, online check-in can speed up the process, as you can print off bag tags at a kiosk and then drop off your bags.

There are also third-party apps that provide mobile check-in services for multiple airlines. For example, the "Airline Flight Check-In" app supports 64 airlines from around the world and aims to accommodate requested airlines within 4-5 hours. Another option is the "Boarding Pass - Flight Checkin" app, which provides quick access to check-in websites for over 100 airlines.

If you are flying with American Airlines, you can get your mobile boarding pass by going to aa.com or the American Airlines mobile app and choosing the 'Email with Mobile Option'. You will then need to follow the link in your email and save your boarding pass to your device.

Check your bag at the gate

Checking your bag at the gate can be a convenient way to avoid baggage fees and the hassle of dragging your luggage through security. Here are some tips to keep in mind when considering this option:

Ask the airline about gate-checking your bag

When checking in for your flight, enquire about the possibility of gate-checking your bag. Some airlines may allow you to check your bag at the gate for free, especially if it's a carry-on item that meets the size and weight requirements. This way, you can avoid paying the checked baggage fee and still have your bag checked to your final destination. However, this may not be applicable if your fare type does not permit carry-on items.

Be mindful of the risks

While gate-checking your bag can be convenient, there are a few risks to consider. Firstly, if you have any valuable items or medications, it's best to keep them with you as gate-checked bags may not be accessible during a connecting flight. Additionally, there is always a small risk of your bag being lost, misplaced, or loaded onto the wrong plane, so make sure to receive a bag tag with tracking information. Consider investing in a Bluetooth tracking device like AirTags to monitor your bag's location.

Understand the process

Gate-checked bags are typically treated the same as other checked bags and stored in the plane's cargo hold. Upon landing, you can retrieve your bag at the baggage carousel, unless you're flying a small regional jet, in which case you may need to collect it from the jet bridge or the bottom of the stairs after disembarking. Remember to confirm with the gate agent if you need to pick up and re-check your bag during a connecting flight, as this may depend on the airport and customs requirements.

Plan ahead for full flights

Airlines commonly request passengers to check their bags at the gate on crowded flights or planes with smaller overhead bins. If you're on a full flight, be prepared for the possibility of gate-checking your bag. This process is standard and shouldn't increase the risk of your bag being lost. However, it's always a good idea to keep essential items with you in a carry-on bag.

Enrol in a security clearance program like Clear

Enrolling in a security clearance program like Clear can be a great way to bypass the long lines at airport security. Clear is a private program that uses biometrics to verify your identity through a scan of your iris or fingerprint. Here are some detailed steps and information to enrol in Clear:

• Understanding the Benefits: Clear allows you to skip the tedious airport security identification procedures. Instead of fumbling for your ID, you can use your fingerprints, iris, or face image scans to confirm your identity and head straight to the security screening area. This can save you a significant amount of time, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Cost and Availability: Clear offers both a complimentary membership and a paid membership called Clear Plus. The complimentary membership gives you access to Clear lanes at stadiums and arenas, as well as select services like rental car reservations. Clear Plus, on the other hand, is the paid service that allows you to bypass the ID check at airport security. It costs $199 per year for an individual membership. Family members or friends can be added for an additional $119 per person per year, and those under 18 can enter the Clear lane for free with a member.
• Eligibility: To enrol in Clear, you must be 18 years or older and have a valid form of unamended photo identification, such as a US driver's license, US passport, or state-issued ID.
• Enrolment Process: You can enrol in Clear by starting the pre-enrollment process online. After that, you'll need to complete your enrolment at a Clear location, such as an airport. A Clear Ambassador will validate your ID, take your biometrics (fingerprint, eye scan, and photo), and help you create your profile. You'll also need to provide payment information during enrolment. The entire process usually takes about five minutes.
• Discounts and Promotions: Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions. For example, Delta SkyMiles members are eligible for discounted Clear Plus rates, and certain credit cards offer annual statement credits to cover the cost of Clear Plus.
• Combining with TSA PreCheck: Clear and TSA PreCheck can be used together. With Clear Plus and TSA PreCheck, you can use the dedicated Clear lane to skip the ID check and then proceed to the PreCheck lane for expedited security screening. This combination can further expedite your airport security experience.

Apply for TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck is a government-run trusted traveller program that allows members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 US airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can speed through security without removing your shoes, laptops, belts, or jackets.

To apply for TSA PreCheck, you can start by submitting an online application. Then, you'll need to attend an in-person appointment at a Transportation Security Administration Enrollment Centre. If approved, you'll receive a Known Traveller Number, which you'll need to enter each time you book a flight. This will usually get you the TSA PreCheck logo on your boarding pass, allowing you to enter the expedited TSA PreCheck line.

The TSA PreCheck application fee is typically $78 and is valid for five years. However, there are over a dozen credit cards that cover the TSA PreCheck application fee as a member benefit. While most of these cards have annual fees, the benefits can generally outweigh the costs for semi-frequent travellers, especially if you were going to pay the application fee out of pocket.

Here's how to apply for TSA PreCheck:

• Visit the TSA website (tsa.gov/precheck) to select an enrolment provider that meets your needs and has an enrolment location near you.
• Pre-enrol online and make an appointment for the in-person process, or walk into an enrolment centre without an appointment.
• Complete the online application, which takes around five minutes.
• Attend your in-person appointment, which will take about 10 minutes. During this appointment, the enrolment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment.
• Once approved, you'll receive your Known Traveller Number (KTN).
• Add your KTN to each participating airline profile or provide it when making air travel reservations. The name you use when applying for TSA PreCheck must match the name used when booking travel.
• If eligible for expedited screening, a TSA PreCheck indicator will appear on your boarding pass.

Apply for Global Entry

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers upon arrival in the United States. Members can access the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports, where their photo is taken to verify their membership.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Before applying, make sure that you are eligible for Global Entry.

Step 2: Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account

Regardless of your age, you must have your own Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account.

Step 3: Complete the online application

Log in to your TTP account and complete the application. A $120 non-refundable fee is required with each completed application.

Step 4: Schedule an interview

After CBP reviews your application, they will conduct a review. If your application is conditionally approved, you will receive instructions to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Each applicant must schedule a separate interview.

Step 5: Complete the application process

Bring your valid passport and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card, to the interview. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your machine-readable permanent resident card.

Step 6: Pay the non-refundable application fee

A $120 one-time fee is required with your Global Entry application and must be paid at the time of application submission through the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) system. You can pay by credit card or through an electronic bank transfer.

Frequently asked questions