Getting through airport security is the bane of life for most travelers. Although it’s necessary to ensure our safety while we fly, it’s tedious and long-lasting. Check out these simple hacks that will help you to get through security more quickly the next time you fly.

Go For The Left Security Checkpoint

airport security lines
Escape
This hack is pretty simple to follow and easy to remember. When you’re in a security line and you’re approaching check-point, choose the left lane instead of the right lane. This is because most people naturally gravitate toward the right lane. You’re more likely to get through the left lane quicker because, statistically speaking, there will be fewer people going through. Of course, this isn’t guaranteed and there are always exceptions. It’s a good idea to use your best judgment. Keep in mind that it’s mostly quicker to use the left lane, but if there appear to be more people going to the left, then it obviously makes sense to go to the right. If you can, also avoid choosing the lane that has a higher number of large families with children or strollers. Groups like this tend to take longer to get through security because kids often take a while to organize when it comes to security processing. RELATED: 20 Glaring Problems With British Airways

Re-Organize Your Bags Before Going Through Security

By simply reorganizing your bags before you actually reach the security check-point, you can save a lot of time. Not only will you make things quicker for yourself, but you’ll also shed waiting time for the people lining up behind you.

Pack your bag in such a way that getting through security will be hassle-free. Place items that will need to be taken out, such as tablets and laptops, at the top of your bag so you don’t have to go digging through your luggage when hundreds of people are waiting behind you. If there’s anything in your carry-on that might cause a problem, also place it near the top of your bag so you can access it easily if the staff members need to analyze it further.

Get Familiar With The Rules And Restrictions Ahead Of Time

airport security line
Pinterest
Research always makes travel experiences run more smoothly and this is also true when it comes to airport security. Make sure you’re familiar with the rules and restrictions that you’ll face at security ahead of time. Although the staff will always inform you of anything you need to know, it saves a lot of time if you come prepared. For example, make sure any liquids you have on you are under 100mls. Don’t wait for the staff to tell you to throw prohibited items out (and don’t bother trying to hide illegal items or break the rules because you will get caught and take up even more time). Try not to pack any prohibited items in the first place. It’s also a good idea to become familiar with the accepted sizes of carry-on bags as you might be prohibited from taking your bag on the plane if it’s too large. RELATED: 10 Travel Hacks For Students

Store Your Valuables In The Pockets Of Your Jacket

A simple and effective tip that can shave a little time off your security experience at the airport is storing any valuables that you have in the pockets of your jacket. This way, when it comes time to go through security, you can simply take your jacket off and put it through the x-ray machine, knowing that all your valuables are safe inside. This will stop you from having to worry about placing your valuables loosely in the tubs and possibly forgetting them. More importantly, it saves time because you can just take the jacket off in one simple motion rather than having to empty your pockets. The added bonus is that you’ll have a jacket on hand that will keep you warm if it gets cold in the departure lounge or on the plane. Make sure that there’s nothing else in your pockets before you leave. The only things that you should be carrying are your passport, your boarding pass, and maybe a little cash or a bank card. RELATED: 10 Unconventional Travel Hacks You Should Know

Apply For A TSA Pre-Check

Pre check security lines at the airport
Forbes
Finally, you can get through airport security more quickly by applying for a TSA PreCheck membership. Also known as a Transportation Security Administration PreCheck, this government-run program will allow you the chance to be processed in security without needing to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets the way other passengers have to. Membership lasts for five years and costs $85. While members often get through security quicker, this isn’t always guaranteed due to unpredictable circumstances. But in February of 2020, 90% of TSA Pre-Check passengers got through security in five minutes or less. Visit the website to find out more about how you can apply for membership and what airports as affiliated with TSA PreCheck. NEXT: 10 Actually Helpful Travel Hacks (10 The Internet Is Lying To You About)