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We’ve all faced the dreaded security line at the airport, wrapping around stanchions and often far past them. There’s no way to make getting through TSA fun, but we can help you get through quickly so you’re on your way to your well-deserved vacation.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
Before You Arrive / Packing Smart / TSA Precheck and Global Entry
Before You Arrive at the Airport
Yes, there are things you can do before you even get to the airport that will make getting through TSA easier. A little preparation will go a long way towards making your time in the security line less frustrating.
How early should I arrive to the airport?
The last thing you want to do is set yourself up for a stressful wait. Getting to the airport with plenty of time to park, drop off checked luggage, get through TSA and find your gate is the best thing you can do to make your day go smoothly when you’re traveling through airports.
Typically for domestic flights the standard is to arrive at the airport two hours before your departure time. For international flights the standard is three hours before your scheduled departure time. That said, there are many things that could influence adjusting your arrival time.
Airport size
Smaller, regional airports may not require quite the same lead time as larger airports when planning your arrival. On the flip side, at larger airports you may want to add more time buffer, especially if you’re traveling during a high traffic time.
TSA PreCheck
If you’re really looking to make things easier on yourself, TSA PreCheck can help. If you are enrolled, you’ll be able to get through TSA quicker so you can take that into account for your arrival time.
Checked luggage
With online check in so popular, it’s easy to forget that if you’re traveling with checked luggage, you’ll still need to visit the airline desk to drop off your luggage. Some airlines have special luggage drop locations that make things move quicker, but still, give yourself extra time for arrival if you’re checking luggage.
Airline advice
Airlines will sometimes send out notifications, either through their app or via email, with recommendations on airport arrival times if there are circumstances the traveler should take into consideration. For example, if the airport is under construction or longer TSA lines are anticipated due to low staffing or equipment updates – airlines may contact you to advise you arrive earlier to allow for more time to get to your gate.
Packing Smart
Knowing what you can and can’t have with you when going through security will make it easier for you when you get there. Between bringing the right amount of liquids, packing electronics, and knowing what is prohibited – there are a lot of things that can help (and hurt) in getting you through TSA quickly.
Can you bring liquids on the plane?
Yes, you can absolutely bring liquids on an airplane. When you’re packing, remember the 3-1-1 rule for liquids. You’re allowed 3.4oz or less of each liquid, all liquids must fit within one clear quart-sized plastic bag, each traveler is allowed one plastic bag. Most common liquids you’ll need while traveling conveniently come in travel size, or you can buy smaller containers to refill from your larger supplies as needed. Once you’re through airport security, there are liquids like soda, coffee and water available for purchase and those do not count towards any liquid limits.
Whether or not an item counts as a liquid can be less straightforward than you would think, here are some items commonly questioned when packing liquids for travel as well as some other items you may not have thought about.
Packing FAQ for TSA:
Is mascara considered a liquid?
Yes
Are makeup/baby wipes considered liquid?
No
Does toothpaste count as a liquid?
Yes. However, companies have started creating toothpaste tablets that are solid pieces you chew and then brush. Toothpaste tablets would not count as a liquid when going through TSA.
Can you bring food through airport security?
Yes, you can bring food through TSA (so don’t forget to pack snacks!). However, the liquid rule still applies to food, so you’ll want to plan to bring solid food. Our go-to snacks for travel are trail mix, crackers and cheese, granola bars, muffins (no custard or jelly filling), apple slices and popcorn.
Can candles go through TSA?
Solid candles are allowed, but gel candles may have restrictions.
Is deodorant considered a liquid?
Solid deodorant is not considered a liquid, but deodorant sprays, gels and liquids all fall under the 3.4oz rule when traveling.
The TSA website has a complete list of prohibited items and items allowed.
Do I need to take my electronics out for TSA?
Yes, you’ll usually need to remove larger electronic devices like laptops, e-readers and handheld game consoles when you go through security. Keep that in mind as you’re packing and put these items in a spot that is easy to access, like a side pocket or smaller bag. Being able to quickly pull your electronics out – and quickly return them when you’re through security will help immensely with getting through TSA.
What should I wear through TSA?
To get through TSA quickly, wear lightweight clothing without a belt, shoes that slip on and off easily. Don’t wear excessive jewelry, clothing that has a lot of metal embellishments, or excessively bulky clothes.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry
Ever get to the airport security line just to see a long wait ahead of you? We’ve all been there. We’ve also all seen (and been jealous of) those travelers who get to fast track through the PreCheck line. There are several expedited traveler programs that help travelers get through security and customs faster.
What’s the difference between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
Besides access to those shorter TSA lines, what do each of these programs entail and which one should you consider? Here is some basic information on the two most popular programs to help guide you in the right direction.
TSA PreCheck
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a program through the Transportation Security Administration that speeds up the security screening process for known travelers based on a risk assessment that is done prior to traveling.
What are the benefits of TSA PreCheck?
With TSA Precheck you’ll get to go through dedicated screening lines (which can make all the difference on busy travel days), you can leave your shoes, jacket and belt on and your liquids and electronics in your bag. According to the TSA, 99% of PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes to get through security.1
How do I apply for TSA PreCheck?
Applying for TSA PreCheck is pretty straightforward. First, you’ll submit an application online at TSA.gov/precheck. Next, you’ll be asked to schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center. At the appointment you’ll need to provide a certified copy of your identity (visit the tsa.gov website for a complete list of required documentation) and fingerprints. They will take your photo and payment at your appointment as well. All that’s left to do is wait for approval when you’ll receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN).
How long does it take to get TSA PreCheck?
The appointment itself is short – about 10 minutes. Waiting for your approval is what takes the longest. Typical estimation is 3-5 weeks for approval, but during peak application times that may increase.
How long is TSA Precheck good for?
TSA PreCheck is good for five years. The renewal process is much easier and can be done completely online up to six months before your membership expires.
Global Entry
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows low-risk pre-approved travelers to expedite their entry into the United States.
What are the benefits of Global Entry?
Global Entry participants get access to dedicated kiosks at airports which allows them to avoid the regular passport lines and get their customs declarations done faster. Travelers often take less than a few minutes to get through customs with Global Entry. In addition to fast tracking customs, Global Entry participants have all the benefits of TSA PreCheck as well.
How do I apply for Global Entry?
To begin the process of applying for Global Entry, you’ll first need to create a Trusted Traveler Program account. From there, applying is similar to TSA PreCheck. First you’ll complete an online application followed by scheduling an in-person appointment at a Global Entry enrollment center to finalize your application. You’ll need to bring your conditional approval letter from your Trusted Traveler Program account, valid passport and a document proving residency.
How long does it take to get Global Entry?
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 80% of applications are approved within two weeks.2
How long is Global Entry good for?
Global Entry is valid for five years and is able to be renewed up to 12 months before expiration. To renew your Global Entry status, you log into your Trusted Traveler Program account and follow the instructions under Renew on your dashboard. Many renewals can be done completely online.
Ultimately the reason for getting through airport security quickly is to get to your gate and on your way to your destination. With all the planning, there’s still a chance your flight leaves without you or even gets cancelled – then what? If you have a Travel Guard travel insurance plan you can skip the lines at the gate and call our assistance team to help get you rebooked and rescheduled quickly. Protect your time and your travel investment, be sure to bring a Travel Guard travel insurance plan along with you for all of travel’s unexpected holdups and hiccups.
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