The ultimate guide to getting through airport security quickly

Few aspects of travel are as stressful as getting through airport security. The long, winding queues, the anxiety of possibly leaving liquids deep inside your bag, and the hassle of unpacking all your electronics—it’s enough to make anyone dread the process. To help ease this pain, we’ve compiled expert tips on how to breeze through airport security with minimal stress.

Why Does Airport Security Take So Long?

Airport security is a critical part of ensuring the safety of all passengers and staff. The checks, which include full-body scanners, metal detectors, and X-ray baggage scans, are designed to detect any potentially harmful items like liquids, metal objects, or contraband. While necessary, these processes take time because each person and their luggage must be checked individually. During peak travel times, the number of passengers increases, leading to long queues and delays. Despite the wait, it’s important to remember that these measures exist to keep everyone safe.

When Is Airport Security Quietest?

The quietest times at airport security are generally aligned with the airport’s off-peak hours. If you’re flying during rush hours, such as early mornings, evenings, or holidays, it’s best to leave extra time to accommodate possible delays. Most airports recommend arriving two hours before your flight for domestic travel and three hours for international flights. Doing so allows ample time to clear security, check your luggage, and navigate the terminal without stress.

Biggest Causes of Airport Security Delays

According to travel expert Katy Maclure, editor of The Detour, the most common causes of delays at security are simple oversights like forgetting to remove liquids or sharp objects from bags. Preparation is the key to a smooth experience. Make sure to review the airport’s rules on liquids and be mindful of which electronics need to be removed when going through security. Failure to comply with these rules often results in bag checks, leading to longer wait times.

Top Tips for Speeding Up Your Airport Security Experience

Prepare in Advance
The best way to fast-track through security is to prepare before you even leave for the airport. Organize your liquids into a transparent, resealable bag, and ensure they adhere to the 100ml limit. Remove electronics like laptops and tablets from your carry-on ahead of time, and pack your bag in a way that makes everything easy to access. Avoid wearing clothing with metal features like belts or heavy jewelry that could set off alarms.

London’s Gatwick Airport advises passengers to remove jackets, coats, and belts before entering the security line and to have their electronics ready for inspection. Once you’ve passed through the security check, move to the designated re-packing area to avoid holding up the line.

Avoid Peak Travel Times
Try to book flights that avoid the busiest travel periods, such as early mornings or evenings, when security lines tend to be the longest. If you’re unable to avoid peak times, monitor wait times through apps like MiFlight or KAYA, which provide real-time estimates for security queues. Though not always accurate, these apps can give you an idea of how busy the airport will be.

Check if Your Ticket Allows You to Skip Queues
Some airlines offer premium services that allow you to bypass the main security line. For example, British Airways offers fast-track security for First Class and Club World passengers at London airports. In the U.S., airlines like Delta and United also provide similar services for premium ticket holders.

What Is Security Fast Track, and Is It Worth It?

Security fast track is a paid service that grants travelers access to a priority lane, reducing wait times. At most London airports, this service costs between £5 and £10. If you’re someone who gets anxious waiting in long lines or traveling with small children, this can be a worthy investment. It’s especially beneficial during peak travel times, allowing you to plan your schedule more efficiently. Some airports even offer time slots for fast-track access, so you can know exactly when to arrive.

What to Do If You’re Running Late

If you’re running late and worried about missing your flight, the best course of action is to notify a member of the airport staff before joining the queue. They can guide you through the process and may even direct you to the fast-track lane if necessary. In the absence of staff, politely ask fellow passengers if you can move ahead in the queue. Being courteous goes a long way in these situations, and most people will understand the urgency.

While airport security can be a hassle, a little preparation goes a long way in making the process smoother. Plan ahead, follow security protocols, and take advantage of fast-track services when available. By staying organized and mindful of peak travel times, you’ll be able to get through airport security with ease and focus on enjoying your journey. Safe travels!