Get Through Airport Security Fast
✈️ Get Through Airport Security Fast: The Only Guide You’ll Need
Airport security might not be the most glamorous part of travel, but it's one of the most important and one of the biggest time sinks. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or flying for the first time, learning how to get through airport security fast can seriously reduce stress, save you from missing flights, and give you back valuable time.
In this guide, we’ll cover the smartest, most up-to-date tips to speed through airport security plus what to expect at domestic vs. international checkpoints, and what mistakes to avoid.
🕐 How Early Should You Arrive at the Airport?
If you want to avoid that dreaded gate-sprint, follow these general timing guidelines:
- Domestic flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure
- International flights: Aim for 3 hours before your flight
- If you have TSA PreCheck or Fast Track access: You might shave off 30+ minutes
🧠 Pro Tip: Early morning and late-night flights often have shorter lines. Avoid peak security wait times (7–10 AM and 4–7 PM) if you can.
✅ Top Ways to Get Through Airport Security Faster
1. Check In Online & Use Mobile Boarding Passes
Don’t waste time in check-in lines. Most airlines let you check in online and send your boarding pass directly to your phone. If you’re not checking a bag, you can head straight to security.
2. Join a Trusted Traveler Program
- TSA PreCheck (U.S.): $78 for 5 years, shorter lines, keep shoes/laptop/liquids in bag
- Global Entry (U.S.): Includes TSA PreCheck + faster immigration for international arrivals
- CLEAR (U.S.): Uses biometric ID to skip ID checks, works well with TSA PreCheck
- Fast Track / Priority Lanes (UK, EU, Asia): Available at many airports as an add-on during booking or via premium travel cards
🧠 Travelers with PreCheck report saving 15–30 minutes per trip.
3. Dress for Success (and Speed)
- Wear slip-on shoes (no laces or boots if possible)
- Skip the belt, metal jewelry, and large watches
- Empty your pockets before you hit the scanner
- Avoid clothing with lots of hidden compartments or layers, those can trigger pat-downs
🧳 Carry-On Packing Tips to Breeze Through Screening
Keep your essentials accessible:
- Passport, boarding pass, and ID in an outer pouch
- Laptop and large electronics in a side pocket
- Liquids bag (100ml max each, 1L total) in a separate clear pouch
🧠 Tip: Use packing cubes or zip pouches to organize. Avoid scrambling at the X-ray belt.
Items to avoid in your carry-on:
- Bottled water or drinks
- Scissors, knives, or tools
- Oversized toiletries (yes, even sunscreen counts)
- Batteries not stored properly (especially lithium-ion)
✈️ What Happens During Airport Security Screening?
Knowing what to expect helps reduce friction:
- Document check – Show ID + boarding pass
- Baggage screening – Bags pass through X-ray machine
- Body scan – Walk through scanner or metal detector
- Additional screening – Random checks or flagged items may need further inspection
🧠 At busy airports, always allow time for a random bag check, especially with electronics or specialty items (like camera gear or drones).
🌍 International Travel? Here's What to Know
Airport security rules vary by country. While many follow global guidelines (e.g., 100ml liquids), others have extra layers of screening.
Expect:
- Exit immigration checks before your departure gate
- Customs declarations even if just transiting through a country
- Multiple security layers at airports like Tel Aviv, Doha, or Istanbul
- Lack of PreCheck-style lanes in some regions
🔒 Bonus Tip: Always double-check visa or transit rules, especially in the EU (Schengen), U.S., or UK.
🚀 Insider Tips for Frequent Flyers
- Avoid lines near the main entrance. Walk to smaller security checkpoints if the airport has more than one.
- Watch what line you join. Business travelers = faster. Families with strollers = slower.
- Check airport wait times online using apps like MyTSA, FlightAware, or your airport's website.
- Charge your phone before security. Some checkpoints require phone inspection—and a dead phone could be flagged.
❌ What Not to Do
- Don’t joke about weapons or security—it can lead to interrogation or delays.
- Don’t rush the line. It won’t move faster, and may draw attention.
- Don’t forget to empty your water bottle beforehand. You’ll be asked to toss it.
- Don’t re-pack your bags at the scanner. Be ready before it's your turn.
🛫 Final Takeaway
The secret to getting through airport security fast comes down to preparation, mindset, and a little strategy.
Plan ahead, stay calm, and move with purpose—not panic.
Plan ahead, stay calm, and move with purpose—not panic.
Whether you’re traveling for business, a weekend getaway, or your dream vacation, clearing security quickly gives you peace of mind—and more time to relax before your flight.
💼 Booking Tip from Fly Fairly
When booking flights through Fly Fairly, you’ll see:
- Accurate layover times
- Multi-airline connections across 650+ carriers
- Transparent pricing (no hidden fees!)
- Flexible payment options—Buy Now, Pay Later, crypto, e-wallets, and more
Real Travelers, Epic Reviews ⭐️
See why thousands are ditching traditional booking sites for flexible flights, more savings, and zero hidden fees.
Veronica Rawaqa
Had a typo issue (my fault) with my booking which was promptly rectified by Ayla at customer service. Very grateful to her as I was very worried that my mistake was going to be a huge problem to fix.
Angie Gnar
I've used flyfairly once and that experience alone with their customer service team (especially Margot) will make me come back in the future.
They go out of their way to help you with any queries as best they can and their reply time is impeccable
Joayce Teh
It is interesting experience and getting a travel insurance for not hassle too much while on trip
B Chin Pau Liew
Flight selection and Add-on choices are clear and concise in general. All that is needed is an option to put in one's frequent flyer program, if applicable.
Misty Wendt
I notice my return flight was for the wrong day and I spoke with Cleo via chat and everything was handled quickly and easily. She worked out all the details and offered me several options on the day that I should’ve been flying home and we were able to get it handled in less than 20 minutes. Thank you so much, Cleo. You are the best!
Abdul Rahman Bin Yacob
Good experience
Welbi Frias
Great prices, easy to buy, and excellent customer service, especially from Rose. This will be my official website for all my purchases from now on. I recommend it to everyone.
Nita C
(Translated by Google) The customer service was very friendly and efficient, responding very promptly. Thanks to Rose/Ayla for their assistance.
(Original)
客服十分親切有效率，回覆十分及時。感謝Rose/Ayla的協助。The customer service was very friendly and prompt. Thanks Rose & Ayla :)
Johann DG
Reliable service for flight arrangements and baggage needs
Fly Fairly has been a big help with my travel plans. They guided me through my flight arrangements from start to finish. The team is responsive and clear, which makes the whole process smooth.
They also assisted me with my additional baggage weight. The support was fast, and they explained everything in a simple way. No stress, no confusion.
Good service, honest communication, and steady follow-through. I’m satisfied with how they handled everything.
林玟淇
(Translated by Google) This website was a pleasant surprise, and the service was excellent! The customer service responded super quickly too!
(Original)
意外發現的網站，服務非常好！克客服回覆也超快～～
Haroh Garcia
The customer service team was incredibly supportive throughout the process. I had a minor name typo, and there was a fee associated with the name change. However, the support team advised me to contact the airline directly first to see if they could resolve the issue without incurring any fees. This approach proved successful.
Jennifer Eskelund
The online agents have been very helpful in explaining any cancelations or changes that I've inquired about my scheduled flight tickets. I still don't leave until the 15th but they've been a great team so far
Deanna Eastland
FlyFairly has great customer support. I did not receive my confirmation email and texted with support and I accidentally put the wrong email and they corrected and got me what I needed 🥰and assured me no worries. Flight to 50☺️
A.A Farhan
It was easy and hassle free. Smooth booking
rose managay
Very flexible term. Aftersales is superb. Had my flight cancelled by the airline. The new flight was not flexible to me, so I requested for a cancelation and refund,and the whole team assisted me to reach out to the airline.
leah hogue
I booked my trip for the wrong dates and needed to adjust my flight. Angel was able to get a refund and a discount on my fixed booking. Definitely saved me from the mini panic attack I was having!
Christina M
I have a non flexible flight but I really need to change it, one of the CS agent, Angel is very accommodating and patient with my inquiries. Even if my ticket has strict rules, she still assisted me. I really appreciate it because I am stressing over the possible airline strike that could affect my flight and Angel being so helpful, calmed me. Best customer service! Keep up the good work Angel and Fly Flairly
Alicia H
The best experience for someone who hasn’t had much experience with changing flights. Ashley was the best. I would highly recommence anytime.
Arjun Vasudevan
very smooth experience.
*I had some issue fetching my ticket via mobile app, the support team followed up closely with the airline and sorted it out very quickly.
*This kinda great support is hard to find nowadays
Nur Sabrina Suhaime
Best flight accommodation service
Jason Siew
The customer service experience is superb. Ashley and Sasha are both very helpful towards my enquries and concerns. In the end its a very smooth booking experience and highly recommended. I will continue to book here for my future trips!
Eleanor Bierdrager
Am amazing experience with Fly Fairly. Delilah helped me manage the flights to Scotland. Professional and with heart. I highly recommend using Fly Fairly.
Anissa Soeparman
I had an incredible experience with Fly Fairly. Angel and Ashley were exceptionally helpful with all my concerns and queries regarding my flight. What made the experience truly special was their attentive and empathetic approach. Thank you so much!
Deepa Kommana
I had a great experience with this travel agency! They promptly assisted me with updating the DPNA (Disabled Passenger with Assistance) request in coordination with Singapore Airlines. Their team was responsive, efficient, and handled everything smoothly. I truly appreciate their dedication and support in making my travel stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone needing professional and timely travel assistance!
Chuchu
It was an easy experience from booking to managing the flight with my connecting flights would highly recommend
Jazzi Franklin
Wow!!! My experience was thee best, It started with Ashley supporting me with my concern and then Angel join in on the team. It was the most informative experience I had with my flight issue, They both were very knowledgeable and went the extra mile to make sure I was taken care of and to be able to get to a resolve. I was very pleased with the outstanding customer support service, they both get a A+ for assisting me. I will definitely look forward to using your services again in the near future and sharing Fly Fairly with my family members. Way to Go!!! Fly Fairly with your awesome team!!!
Aidil Abdullah
Great service by Ashley with regards to my enquiries on my flight booking. She was friendly, courteous and went to a great length to assist me. To add on, I have been booking via FlyFairly a couple of times and so far it has always been a pleasant experience.
charms 2a
I had a great experience with FlyFairly! The rates are genuinely fair with no hidden fees or surprise charges. I really appreciated the wider range of payment options and the variety of airlines offered at competitive prices. It was also super convenient to add baggage allowance directly with the airline. On top of that, their support team was fast, helpful, and friendly. Highly recommended!
Alexia Turner
Angel was great at getting an issue resolved with my order. This was my first time using this site but I will use again and recommend to anyone.
Roella Legaspi
Easy booking and prompt customer service response!
Buy Now Pay Later, Cryptocurrencies, over 100+ ways to pay
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive at the airport for security?
It’s recommended to arrive 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and unexpected delays.
What items are not allowed through airport security?
Prohibited items include full-size liquids (over 100ml), sharp objects (knives, scissors), firearms, explosives, and flammable substances. Always check your local airport or airline for a full list of restricted items.
Can I bring snacks through airport security?
Yes, you can bring solid snacks like chips, sandwiches, or fruit through security. However, liquid or gel-based foods (like yogurt, soup, or peanut butter) must follow the 100ml liquid rule.
What is TSA PreCheck and how does it work?
TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that allows pre-approved travelers to use an expedited security line. No need to remove shoes, laptops, belts, or liquids. It saves an average of 15–30 minutes.
Do I need to remove my laptop at airport security?
Yes, unless you’re enrolled in TSA PreCheck or using a designated fast-track lane. Laptops and tablets typically must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin during screening.
What is the 3-1-1 rule for airport security?
The 3-1-1 rule means:
- 3.4 ounces (100ml) per liquid item
- 1 quart-sized clear zip-top bag
- 1 bag per traveler
This applies to carry-on luggage only.
Can I go through airport security without a boarding pass?
No, you must show a valid boarding pass and government-issued ID to access airport security and enter the departure gates.
How can I get through airport security faster?
Check in online, pack smart (keep electronics and liquids accessible), wear slip-on shoes, and use programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Fast Track lanes where available.
Do children need to remove their shoes at airport security?
In the U.S., children under 12 do not need to remove shoes, jackets, or headwear. Policies may vary in other countries. Check with your departure airport.
What happens if I get randomly selected for extra screening?
Random screening is a standard part of airport security. You may be asked to undergo a pat-down, bag search, or additional questioning. Stay calm and cooperate—it typically only takes a few extra minutes.
Read More