Air Travel: Getting Through Security

Airport security has always been strict, but it has become even more of a hassle to get through since the events of September 11, 2001. The key to getting through security quickly and safely is to familiarize yourself with the security process and know what to expect before you go.

Check-In
Before you leave for the airport make sure you have your ticket and a photo ID card. You will not be able to get past the check-in counter if you do not have a proper photo ID! You should also know your airline's luggage policy and make sure that your bags do not exceed the maximum weight, and/or size, otherwise you will have to leave items behind or buy another suitcase. If possible, fill out identification cards for each of your bags before you arrive at the airport in order to save time in the check-in process.

Don't pack any banned items such as weapons, explosives, and incendiaries. It's a good idea to check the prohibited items list before you pack because there are other less-obvious items that have been barred from airplanes. Reading the list prior to packing will help you to avoid any additional security checks.

Don't over-pack your suitcase otherwise security personnel will have to spend extra time re-packing it after it has passed through security. Also, you may want to put your personal items in a transparent case so they can be easily viewed and will not be handled during the security procedure.

X-ray and Metal Detector Security
After check-in, you'll have to put your carry-on bags on a conveyor belt which passes through an X-ray machine. Then you will walk through a metal detector. The X-ray machine and metal detector are usually the final and tightest security check-point.

You can expedite the process by putting all metal objects such as keys, jewelry, watches, hair clips, and coins in your carry-on bags or in a bin that moves through the X-ray machine. If possible you should pack your coat otherwise it will have to be removed and placed on the X-ray belt. If you have a laptop computer you should remove it from the case and place it on the X-ray belt. You should also have the battery fully charged because you may be asked to turn it on for security purposes.

Following these guidelines will help you avoid setting off an alarm and having to undergo a secondary screening. If you do have to undergo a secondary screening, which involves a hand-wand and pat-down inspection, allow them to do it in public because it will be a lot faster.