We all know how it is. Any mention of the state of airport travel today — especially the lines and the TSA — will inevitably elicit groans of frustration, eye rolls, and a raft of stories of security nightmares.
It’s true in many ways that traveling by plane today lacks much of the glamour and carefree effortless elegance of, say, 50 years ago. We live in a different world with much more complex problems that need to be addressed.
But since you have to go through the lines and security no matter what — how about making it as painless as possible? Here are some easy tips to help you breeze through your next security screening.
1. Get organized. That sounds like stock advice, right? Here are some specifics that can shave precious minutes and hassle off your wait time. a. Check your flight status before you get ready to leave your house, or download a smartphone app like TripIt that will automatically notify you of any changes to your itinerary. b. Check in to your flight online. This is especially helpful if you are not checking any bags! c. Ed Hewitt, features editor for The Independent Traveler, offers this: Before you leave for the airport, put everything essential you need to check-in and get through security — your ID, credit card and boarding pass, etc. — in an easily accessible part of your wallet or bag. “This way, you don't waste your (and other people's) time fumbling around for them at the moment you need them.” Then, he says, “Pack out of reach anything that you will not need between your front door and your airplane seat. Clutter is the enemy of smooth passage through the airport.”
d. One savvy traveler recommends this trick: If you’re staying over in a hotel and have an early morning flight, take your watch or any jewelry, loose change, and any other small items you’d have to take out anyway (like portable electronics), and just put them in plastic baggies in your carry-on. That way, you save the time having to remember and gather them while in line, and they’re all together in one place when you’re through. TSA agents also reportedly appreciate this kind of forethought. e. While you’re in line, make a mental note of how many bins you’ll need. Take a few seconds to plan out the most efficient way to get your stuff on the belt so you can go through, get dressed, and get out.
2. Get on the list. The TSA has a trusted traveler program called TSA Pre® that is available in many airports across the country. It has perks like not requiring shoe or laptop removal for a speedy trip through security.
3. Troubleshoot like a pro. When things don’t go as planned and you get delayed or a late flight means a missed connection — don’t panic. Here’s what you can have on hand to help make a messy situation much more bearable: a. If you have a smartphone, make use of it. Find helpful apps (such as TripIt) that keep all your info organized, that keep you informed, and that have helpful names and numbers (like mine!) at your fingertips when you need them. b. Program the numbers of your travel agent, airline, car rental service, hotel, and any other contact info into your phone. You can even temporarily organize them all under one name — for example, assign the “last name” of each item as “California Trip,” and they’ll all appear listed in one spot in your contacts for easy access. This way, if a logistical emergency occurs, you have the ability to reach me so I can help you find additional flights, make cancellations, reschedule pick-up/drop-off times, or notify hosts or a front desk of late arrival.
4. Get Zen – or whatever your version of that is. When you have everything organized, and you know you’re ready to go, and all there is left to do is wait in line, make the most of it. Focus on the excitement you feel about your trip. Talk to your kids. Take deep breaths. If you’re not self-conscious, do some pre-tiny-airline-seat stretches. Strike up a conversation if you feel like it. Listen to a podcast. Get your mind in a positive and productive place and set the tone for your trip to focus on what’s working and what you’re thankful for.
And, we know it’s tough sometimes, but don’t forget the one travel essential you cannot live without -- patience. Everyone is in the same boat; everyone wants to get through. A smile and a “thank-you” never hurt, either. I’ve known many people, including myself, who’ve gotten unexpected happy surprises (baggage fees waived, bump up) just for being polite when everyone else was falling apart. See where it gets you!
Are you looking for help planning your next trip? Not only can I help you with security line advice – I can help you with everything that leads up to it and everything after! Contact me today and we can get started planning your best trip yet. Contact me to schedule a quick hello and chat with me to get started.