15 TSA Hacks to Get Through North Carolina Airport Security in No Time
Do you have a flight coming up out of North Carolina? Make your time in the airport less stressful by familiarizing yourself with some guidelines to get through the TSA checkpoint faster.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict rules about what you can and cannot bring with you through security at the airport. Knowing these rules, along with some other tips, can allow you to get through security quickly and start the fun part of your trip sooner.
Explore this list to learn about 15 tips for getting through TSA lines faster. These tips come from government sources and news articles.
1: Get TSA PreCheck
Do you get jealous of people who breeze through security, skipping the long lines and keeping their shoes on?
The next time you fly, you could be one of those people.
Enroll in TSA PreCheck before your next flight. This program allows you to keep your shoes on, your electronics stowed, and your liquids inside your carry-on as you go through security.
About 99% of travelers with TSA PreCheck wait less than 10 minutes to go through security, according to the TSA.
2: Enroll in Global Entry
If you often travel internationally, sign up for Global Entry. It’s another trusted traveler program that allows you to clear customs quickly when reentering the United States after a trip.
As a bonus, it comes with TSA PreCheck eligibility.
To enroll in Global Entry, you must submit to a background check and complete an in-person interview at an airport. Once you have Global Entry, you’re eligible to use the TSA PreCheck lines at U.S. airports.
3: Check Wait Times
A few hours before your flight, you can start checking the security wait times at your airport. The MyTSA app gives you real-time information about security delays so you can plan accordingly.
Besides delays, the app can tell you how long security may take based on historical data for the day and time of your flight.
You can also get answers to common questions, like what you can and can’t bring, to help you get through security more quickly.
4: Arrive Early
There’s nothing worse than getting to the airport and seeing a security line a mile long, knowing you have to catch a flight in 20 minutes.
Do yourself a favor and get to the airport in plenty of time to make it through security, even if there are delays.
The TSA recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before your flight. You can also check with your airline to view recommended arrival times.
5: Plan Your Outfit
Whether you prefer to travel in sweatpants or slacks, keep the security process in mind when planning your plane outfit.
Some items of clothing may contain metal that can set off the detectors, slowing you (and your fellow travelers) down.
Inspect your clothing carefully for metal buttons, fasteners, pins, or other elements. Don’t forget about accessories, like jewelry or hair clips, that may cause issues.
6: Wear the Right Shoes
Unless you have TSA PreCheck, you’ll probably need to remove your shoes to go through security.
Choose a pair of shoes you can easily slip off and on so you don’t get held up.
Also, it should go without saying, but wear socks with your shoes. You don’t want to walk barefoot on an airport floor, even if it’s only for a few steps.
7: Pack Like a Pro
Having a well-packed carry-on can help you get through security faster. If a TSA officer can’t tell what’s in your bag, it takes them longer to screen it.
Additionally, keep the items you’ll need to remove, such as electronics and liquids, at the top of your bag.
You don’t want to dig through your carry-on to find your laptop, camera, or tablet.
8: Remember 3-1-1
Don’t be the person who tries to go through security with a full-size bottle of shampoo or their entire makeup bag.
Remember the 3-1-1 rule, which states each passenger can bring liquids under 3.4 ounces in one quart-size bag.
This rule applies to liquids, gels, and aerosols. It includes toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, lotion, and other common toiletries.
9: Know the Other Rules
The 3-1-1 rule isn’t the only one you need to remember when you go through security.
The TSA also has rules about the foods, medicines, and other items you can bring with you through security.
If you’re questioning whether you can bring peanut butter, mascara, or vitamins in your carry-on, check the TSA database of permitted items. Chances are, you can find the answer to your question there.
10: Use Bins Wisely
Know how to use bins to your advantage when going through airport security. You’ll need to place electronics in their own bin with nothing on or under them, according to the TSA.
In addition, use bins for small items that can fall between the cracks of the conveyor belt.
These items may include your keys, phone, wallet, and boarding pass.
11: Bring an Empty Bottle
By now, you know that you can’t bring beverages through the security line (unless they’re under 3.4 ounces).
So, drink the last of your water, coffee, or soda before you get in line.
While you can’t carry drinks with you through security, it’s a good idea to bring an empty bottle in your carry-on bag. You can fill it up with water once you’re through security to stay hydrated during your flight.
12: Plan Ahead
Do you dread airport security more than the average person? Plan ahead to minimize your chances of getting stuck in long lines.
Not surprisingly, high-traffic travel times generally include holidays and peak travel seasons, including summer.
Throughout the year, airports usually have less traffic in the middle of the week and in the early mornings, according to Simple Flying.
13: Get Ready in Line
If you do find yourself stuck in a long line, make the most of your time. Follow the tips above to make sure you’re ready to go.
For example, you can get your electronics readily accessible, empty your pockets, and remove metallic jewelry.
The more you can do in line, the faster you can get through to the other side.
14: Don’t Make Jokes
TSA officers have a job to ensure the safety of you and your fellow passengers. They take potential threats very seriously, so don’t make jokes while you’re standing in line.
A misguided joke about having a weapon can lead to serious consequences.
The police may come to question you, causing you to miss your flight. According to a USA Today report, you might even get fined.
15: Be Polite
Traveling can be stressful and chaotic, but that’s no reason to be rude. Treat the TSA agents and other people around you with courtesy and respect.
When you listen to the TSA officers and follow their instructions, you’re more likely to get through security faster.
Plus, having a positive attitude can ensure you start your trip on the right foot.
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