Over the past 15 years, airport security has shifted and changed dramatically. In a response to terrorism and other threats, there has been a distinct need for things to be checked more thoroughly and for new safety measures to be introduced to ensure the safety of travelers.

These are measures that are very much needed and appreciated by all involved, yet it can sometimes be slightly problematic when it comes to catching a flight in a timely manner.

Vamped up security is suddenly slowing the entire airport process down for everyone, and whilst we value the fact that our safety comes first, the queues still don’t look that appealing.

That’s why we’ve created this guide to ensure you get through airport security as quickly and smoothly as possible. A good airport experience can make the world of difference when it comes to your trip. So take note of what we have to say and head to the airport knowing you’re fully prepared, and that those queues may not take as long as you originally thought.

Research your airport

One key thing to do is make sure you know which airport you’re going to and how long it is likely going to take to travel there. If you’re travelling early, take into account traffic. If you’re going to take a taxi, make sure you’ve got the change to pay the driver. It’s small things like this that can make your trip stressful or stress-less, so they’re always worth looking into before you leave the house.

Make sure you have your passport.

There’s nothing worse than arriving at an airport relaxed and on time for your flight, and then realising your passport is still on the beside table. Double check, triple check if you must, but ensure you have that passport because if you don’t have it and you’re planning to travel to a foreign country, you won’t be allowed to board the plane.

Screen print/print your boarding pass.

Most boarding passes are now sent out by email. This means that it is vital you print out a copy of your boarding pass before arriving at the airport. In the scenario where you forget to print it, try and take a screen print on your phone. This may suffice with some airlines, but to be safe it’s much easier to ensure you have a paper copy with you at all times.

Opt for express check-in

If you know you’ll be in a hurry on the day, then it’s worth opting to pay a little extra for express check in at the airport. Not only will this allow you to avoid that long, laborious queue next to the express check in, but it will also ensure you’re relaxed and reach security at a much quicker rate than others who have not chosen to use the service.

Avoid the queues.

Everyone hates to queue up, but it has become somewhat of a British fad over recent years. Our country has become synonymous with long wait in lines, but it doesn’t have to be this way at the airport.

If express check in isn’t for you, then another recommended route to take is to go and have some food or read a newspaper until the queue has gone down to a suitable level. You can wait in line or wait in a nice, comfy chair with something entertaining to do. The choice is entirely up to you, but we know which we’d prefer.

Have your documents to hand

When you do finally feel like it’s a suitable time to join the queue, or if you’ve been in it all along, it’s best to have your documents including passports and boarding passes to hand. This ensures you don’t need to partake in that all-so-familiar fumble in the bag at the check-in counter, and also means you can get through the process in as quick and smooth a manner as possible.

Wear minimal metal items.

Everything from jewelry to belt buckles to stylish shoes all have the ability to set off airport x ray scanners. You will be asked to remove them once you are going through security, but it’s best to already have them off and in your hand so they can easily be slotted into one of the gray airport trays.

It may also avoid an unnecessary body search too, so it’s well worth adopting this tip.

Liquids

The policy on liquids in airports has been around for a while now, but it’s always worth double checking it before you fly so that you are fully prepared.

Liquids cannot be over 100 ml, and must be stored in a small, clear plastic bag (think an un-frosted sandwich bag), it’s also worth noting that you are only allowed one bag per person, so be sure if you’re travelling with hand luggage only that there’s enough room to fit all your toiletries in a bag that would usually only hold two rounds of bread.

Avoid queues with children and large groups

You’re always going to be slowed down in security if you’re waiting behind large groups, so it’s always best to follow the adults who are travelling solo. You’re much likely to get through airport security at a quicker pace if you do this, which will inturn allow for more time to relax before your flight.

Airport Lounges

Another way to ensure a relaxing trip is to book your airport lounge online in advance. This will allow you to avoid anymore unnecessary queuing, and will also allow you to have some relaxing ‘me time’ before boarding your flight.

These Tips came from Simplexity Travel:

We know holidays can be stressful, but Simplexity Travel Management believe that there is a way out of the holiday-stress cycle that so many people find themselves in.

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, Simplexity Travel Management are a luxury travel management company that can organise every aspect of your trip for you.

From airport transfers to flight tickets, to lounge access and hotels, if you book with us, you can take comfort in knowing that whatever you need will be organised by us, allowing your trip to run as smoothly as possible whilst also removing any stress for yourself.

To find out more, visit our website www.simplexitytravel.com, or call us on 0203 535 9290. You can also email us at [email protected] or follow us on Twitter for the latest in luxury travel news and competitions @SimplexityTM.

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