Traveling is a transformative experience that broadens our horizons and perspectives.
However, an unavoidable part of this journey is canceled or delayed flights, waiting in long lines, and the fact that travelers at airports usually face the challenge and uneasiness of carrying their luggage around until check-in opens.
Also, first-time flyers are overwhelmed when they face the tiresome process of getting through airport security.
Taking into consideration all of the above pain points, we’ve rounded up this guide to give you an overview of the things you have to take out of your bag at airport security, along with some tips to move swiftly through security, which in turn speeds up the process for those around you.
Plus, we will show you how to easily store your bags at an airport.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
4 Things to Take Out of Your Bag At Airport Security
Generally speaking, most airports around the world follow the rules that are in accordance with TSA (Transportation Security Administration), regarding the things you need to take out of your bag at airport security.
However, depending on the airport, some things might slightly change.
So, let’s take a closer look at the things you need to take out of your bag at airport security:
1. Liquids
Once you make it to the airport security checkpoint, you need to take any liquid you carry with you out of your bag.
As a general rule, passengers can bring liquids of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less in a one-quart-sized resealable plastic bag, and each passenger is allowed one such bag in their carry-on luggage.
Examples of products in this category include:
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothpaste and mouthwash
- Perfume and cologne
- Lotion and creams
- Contact lens solution
- Hair gel and mousse
2. Electronics
When passing through airport security, you will be required to take out any personal electronic devices from your carry-on bag for individual screening.
These include cameras, camcorders, portable chargers, power banks, tablets, laptops, e-readers, smartwatches, game consoles, and fitness trackers.
Typically, mobile phones can stay in your hand luggage or jacket to be X-rayed.
Also, it should be noted that in most cases, laptops must be placed in a bin on their own without any other items.
3. Accessories and jewelry
Belts with metal buckles, jewelry, keys, watches, and large metal items are likely to trigger the metal detectors during airport security inspections.
As a result, it is instructed to remove these items from your bag and place them in a tray for separate screening.
Some airports may have trays specifically for smaller items.
4. Food
Some airports may ask you to remove food items from your carry-on for separate screening.
However, this varies by airport, so be prepared to take out snacks and food if requested.
Also, some airports, such as London Gatwick Airport, strongly advise their passengers to pack all food and powders into hold luggage wherever possible.
The reason behind this recommendation is that these items can obstruct images on X-ray machines and lead to extra manual bag checks, which may cause delays at security.
Moving on, since time is priceless, let’s see how to get through airport security faster and more efficiently.
5 Tips to Get Through Airport Security Faster
Getting through airport security quickly can help make your travel experience smoother and less stressful.
So, here are some tips we have collected to help you get through airport security faster:
1. Pack strategically
When you create your travel checklist, try to organize your carry-on so that items you need to remove at security (like electronics and liquids) are easily accessible.
Use a clear, resealable bag for liquids and keep it at the top of your bag for immediate access.
2. Wear appropriate clothing
Try to avoid wearing large metal items that can trigger metal detectors.
Also, it is advised to wear slip-on shoes to make removal and re-wearing quicker, since some airports might require you to take off your shoes.
3. Have your documents ready
Keep in mind to have your ID and boarding pass ready before you reach the security checkpoint.
This will save time when you reach the front of the line.
4. Enroll in expedited screening programs
Another tip is to sign up for expedited screening programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry which can significantly reduce your wait time.
For instance, TSA PreCheck allows you to keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, and leave your laptop and liquids in your bag.
5. Arrive early
Last but not least, it is highly recommended to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare before your flight, especially during peak travel times. You can check the security wait times online or through airport apps to plan accordingly.
Also, for more information regarding how early you check your bags for a flight, make sure to take a look at the article we created for you.
And since we keep our promises it’s about time to tie up some loose ends and take you through a simple process to easily store your luggage at an airport.
How to Easily Store Your Luggage at an Airport
At first glance, storing your luggage at an airport’s facilities might seem like a convenient option.
However, if you aim for flexibility, saving money, and above all simplicity, then it sounds like we might be the perfect fit for you.
At Stasher, we’ve partnered with hotels, cafes, and local shops, in over 890 cities worldwide to cater to the needs of every traveler, looking to safely store their luggage for a few hours or days.
Simply head over to our homepage or download our app for Android or iOS, and store your luggage anywhere with Stasher!
