The TSA believes Friday could be the busiest day for security checks in American history.
The security agency typically screens 2.2 to 2.3 million passengers a day. On Friday they may screen 400,000 passengers more that the figure.
RELATED: Check local flight times
According to a bicycling group called Ciclismo Classico, bloggers noticed that people are constantly making the same mistake while traveling through airport security.
Through careful observation and testing, they came up with a few simple strategies on how to get through the TSA security line as quickly and efficiently as possible.
1) Make sure what you need is easily accessible
Liquids (3.4 oz or less) in a ziplock bag and laptops must come out of your carry-on bag, so pack them where they can be easily accessed and taken out. Have your passport/I.D. and boarding pass ready to show to TSA (zipper pocket of your carry-on, inside coat pocket, etc). You will not need it until boarding, so just put it away after it's stamped.
Extra: TSA is always "reminding" people that your laptop must be placed in a bin by itself. False! A TSA agent told me they just want your laptop unobstructed by other objects, so you can place other things in the same bin as long as they do not cover your laptop. Tablets and cameras DO NOT need to be taken out of your bag - don't make this rookie mistake, we see it all the time!
2) Take off and pack your layers
Anything flowing (such as jacket and scarf) will have to come off and placed in a bin. Belts, some jewelry, phones, loose change, etc. will go off during security and they may have to pay you down. Pack those objects away before getting in the TSA line. If you're unsure about an item, just take it off.
Side note: wear shoes that you can easily slip on and off. You'll hold up the line if you have to untie or unzip. It's best to avoid these people when choosing a queue line. (see #3)!
3) Pick the right queue line
This is the most important and useful tip that we can offer. Do not get in line behind families and/or strollers, elderly, and people wearing shoes with many laces, straps, or boots/heels. Also, stay clear of those wearing layers they haven't taken off, or are on their phone. Do go for the line with people traveling for business, only have a briefcase or one carry-on item, or are in uniform (flight attendants). Does this tip sound familiar? It's probably because you've seen the movie Up in the Air with George Clooney. Helpful tip: when you're in one long line which then breaks off into many smaller lines, go for the one farthest away from where the one long line breaks off. They always seem to be less crowded.
4) Systematically place items on the belt
If you've followed steps 1-4, here's how we suggest you unpack:
- Take 2 bins
- Place shoes, jacket and personal item in first bin
- Place laptop and liquids in second bin
- Place carry on luggage last, zipper open
Here's why (you're now through the screening):
First bin arrives, slip on your shoes, jacket and personal item
Second bin arrives, pick up your laptop and liquids, stack bins
Luggage arrives, flip open, place laptop and liquids inside and done!
5) TSA Pre-check
Join this very helpful and expedited screening program! If you're considered low-risk, for a fee of $85 for 5 years you can receive expedited screening—and use a separate and shorter line—at TSA security. You'll have to go in for an interview, but if approved you won't need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, light jackets and belts. We really only recommend this if you regularly travel in the U.S. for business. as it's only offered in the US. Click here to learn more.
There are other expedited screening/frequent traveler services for traveling abroad. Click here for those options.
6) Do not ask to skip the line
This isn't really a tip, but more of a warning. Do not ask agents if you can go to the front of the line because you're running late for your flight. They are no longer allowed to do this (or maybe they were never allowed to in the first place). Also realize that there may be others in line who are on your same flight. Take a deep breath, follow these steps, and get ready to run to your gate once past security. Your flight will not leave until they have called your name 2-3 times on the loudspeaker.
The TSA is also tightening up on powders. Baby formula is good, but if a checkpoint officer can't resolve what the powder in a carry-on bag is, YOU might be forced to toss it before boarding your flight.
