How to get through airport security faster
Get through airport security faster by joining a trusted traveler program if you fly often, packing liquids in one clear bag at the top of your carry-on, keeping your laptop easy to reach, and wearing slip-on shoes and few metal items. Empty your pockets into your bag before the line, have your ID and boarding pass ready, and check the airport's recommended arrival time.
Why it matters: A few habits and a trusted traveler program cut the line and the stress.
Steps
- If you fly several times a year, look into a trusted traveler program and apply early.
- Pack your liquids bag and laptop where you can lift them out in seconds.
- Wear slip-on shoes and skip belts and chunky metal jewelry.
- Empty pockets into your bag before you reach the line.
- Have your ID and boarding pass in hand.
- Check the airport's recommended arrival time and add a margin at busy times.
- Repack at the benches after screening, not at the belt.
Common mistakes
- Burying liquids at the bottom of the bag.
- Forgetting a water bottle is full.
- Arriving at the last minute on a holiday weekend.
Teach this to someone
A one page sheet for showing a friend, a teenager or a parent: what to say, what to show, and one question to check it landed.
Teach: How to get through airport security faster
What to say
Get through airport security faster by joining a trusted traveler program if you fly often, packing liquids in one clear bag at the top of your carry-on, keeping your laptop easy to reach, and wearing slip-on shoes and few metal items. Empty your pockets into your bag before the line, have your ID and boarding pass ready, and check the airport's recommended arrival time.
What to show
- If you fly several times a year, look into a trusted traveler program and apply early.
- Pack your liquids bag and laptop where you can lift them out in seconds.
- Wear slip-on shoes and skip belts and chunky metal jewelry.
- Empty pockets into your bag before you reach the line.
- Have your ID and boarding pass in hand.
- Check the airport's recommended arrival time and add a margin at busy times.
- Repack at the benches after screening, not at the belt.
Check question
Where should your liquids bag be?
Answer: At the top of your carry-on. You can lift it out quickly if asked.
Your checklist
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Quick quiz
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Related skills
Sources
- US federal airport security screening guidance, 2026. Reviewed September 28, 2026.
Written in our own words from the sources above. It is general information, not advice for your situation; where a professional, your doctor or your lease says something different, follow them.
Last reviewed . First published .