Lois Larson
Nobody likes waiting in line at the airport. Luckily, there are several ways to skip the line and save time. One way is to enroll in a security clearance program such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Clear. These programs offer expedited screening processes and separate, shorter lines. Alternatively, some airports offer free reservation programs that allow passengers to schedule security appointments, bypassing the regular line. Additionally, you can avoid the bag-check line by limiting yourself to a carry-on, and you can also save time by printing your tickets or using a mobile app for check-in and boarding.
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TSA PreCheck
To be approved for TSA PreCheck, you must complete an online form that includes questions about your physical appearance and criminal history. You will then need to schedule and complete a 10-minute, in-person interview with a TSA official. This includes fingerprinting, a photograph, and a background check at one of the enrollment centres across the country.
You can enrol in TSA PreCheck in as little as 5 minutes online, and then complete your enrolment in 10 minutes at your chosen provider. You will need to bring documents and photos, and pay any applicable fees.
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Travel light
Travelling light is one of the best ways to skip lines at the airport. By carrying only a small bag, you can avoid checking luggage altogether, which saves time at both check-in and baggage claim.
If your bag meets the airline's carry-on restrictions, you can usually check in online and go straight to security. Even if you do need to check bags, checking in online can still speed up the process, as you can print bag tags at a kiosk and then drop off your luggage.
Some airlines offer priority services for an additional fee, which can be a good option if you need to check bags but want to save time. These services often include priority check-in and security lines, as well as priority boarding.
Another way to skip lines is to travel at off-peak times. Airports tend to be busiest at the beginning and end of the week, as well as during school holidays. Choosing a morning flight or flying through a smaller airport can also help you avoid crowds.
Finally, consider enrolling in expedited security programs such as TSA PreCheck, Clear, or Global Entry. These programs allow members to use designated security lanes and typically don't require removing shoes, laptops, or jackets. While some of these services are free, others require an application fee, which may be covered by certain credit cards.
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Know TSA rules
Knowing the rules and regulations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can help you move through airport lines more efficiently. Here are some general guidelines to ease the screening process:
Laptops: If you don't have TSA PreCheck®, take your laptop out of its case and place it in a separate bin for screening. With TSA PreCheck®, you can leave your laptop in your bag.
Liquids: Ensure any liquids you carry are in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a quart-size, clear plastic bag. Place them in a separate bin for screening.
Clothing: With TSA PreCheck®, you can keep your shoes, belt, and jacket on during screening. Otherwise, you may be asked to remove these items and place them in a bin.
Personal Items: Empty your pockets and place any items, such as keys, coins, and phones, into a bin for screening. This helps speed up the process and avoids any potential delays.
Additionally, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck® or similar programs. These programs offer expedited security screening at select airports, often with separate and shorter lines. While they may require a fee, certain credit cards provide statement credits to offset these charges. With proper planning and knowledge of TSA rules, you can significantly reduce your waiting time at the airport.
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Security clearance programs
There are several security clearance programs that allow air travellers to skip security and customs lines. These include TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear.
TSA PreCheck is a government-run program that allows members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 airports in the US. The program costs $78 and is valid for five years. To qualify, you must fill out an online application and schedule an in-person appointment at one of the 380+ TSA PreCheck enrollment centres. Once approved, you will be given a Known Traveler Number, which you must enter when booking a flight to access the expedited security lane. With TSA PreCheck, you can keep your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets on during screening.
Global Entry is another security clearance program that allows members to skip the line and head straight to the Global Entry kiosks at immigration. The application process is more rigorous than TSA PreCheck, and applicants must qualify as low-risk travellers. Once approved, you will be part of the trusted traveller network and can skip the line by scanning your passport and fingerprints and completing a customs declaration. Global Entry costs $100 and is valid for five years.
Clear is a subscription-based program that costs $15 per month, billed annually. It uses biometrics to recognize your identity and send you straight to the bins at security. Clear is available at over 35 airports in the US and can be used in tandem with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to expedite the security process further.
Additionally, some airlines offer their own security clearance programs or provide expedited security access to certain elite status members or first-class passengers. For example, Southwest offers the Fly By Lane, which provides direct access to the front of the ticket counter and security checkpoints at select airports for Business Select Fare passengers or A-List members.
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Avoid peak times
One of the most effective ways to skip lines at the airport is to avoid peak times. Typically, the busiest travel days are during holidays, so you can avoid long lines by travelling outside of these periods. You can also opt for a morning flight instead of an afternoon one, as this can help you bypass delays.
If you're able to, try to schedule your trip for an off-peak time of year. For example, if you're travelling for leisure, you might consider a shoulder-season trip, which is the period between peak and off-peak seasons. This way, you can take advantage of milder weather and thinner crowds.
Another strategy is to fly on weekdays instead of weekends. Airports tend to be busier on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, as these are popular days for leisure travellers to fly. By choosing a weekday flight, you may encounter shorter lines and fewer crowds.
Additionally, you can avoid peak hours within the day. Airports usually experience higher traffic in the early morning and evening, as these are common times for business travellers to fly. Aim for a mid-morning or mid-afternoon flight to benefit from lighter traffic and shorter lines.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to skip or shorten lines at the airport:
- Enroll in a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Clear.
- Sign up for the reservation program at your specific airport.
- Limit yourself to a carry-on instead of checking a bag.
- Upgrade your seat.
- Choose a morning flight instead of an afternoon flight.
- Travel during an off-peak time.
To be approved for TSA PreCheck, you must first complete an online form that includes questions about your physical appearance and criminal history. Then, schedule and complete a 10-minute, in-person interview with a TSA official that includes fingerprinting, a photograph, and a background check. Most people are approved a few days after their appointment.
According to TSA PreCheck, 93% of the program's passengers in August 2019 waited less than five minutes. Additionally, you can generally keep your laptop and liquids in your bag, and keep on your shoes, belt, and jacket.
