How to Get Through Airport Security Quickly

Recently, we have been traveling by airplane quite often. It seems like the time to get through security keeps getting longer and longer. So I decided to see if there was anything I could do to make it a little easier and maybe even quicker.

I knew, of course, there was no way I could hurry along the other travelers or the TSA personnel. What could I do myself that might ease the process just a little? I came up with the following solution that seems to work well.

After you get through the boarding pass checkpoint, you usually start the process of removing your wallet, watch, and other personal items you have in your pockets or are wearing, such as jewelry. What if you removed those items before you went through the security line?

I tried it and it makes the ordeal just a little better. I removed my wallet, watch, comb, and loose change from all my pockets and placed all the items in a small plastic freezer bag I had brought with me.  I then placed the bag in my briefcase (you could also use your carry- on  bag).  It seemed like I flew through the x-Ray process. Once on the other side, I emptied out the plastic bag and was on my way.

It seemed to me that not only was it quicker, it was safer.  Just putting all your personal items in those little plastic dishes as you go through security always seemed to me to be a  little unsafe. We have all heard stories of and maybe even experienced ourselves missing or forgotten watches, wallets, etc. Using my suggested method makes those a  lot less likely. Try it; I think you'll like it.

Getting Through Airport Security with Gifts and Food

Millions of people will be traveling during this holiday season. Many of them will be traveling by air. Some of those people will be bringing with them gifts and food for family and friends.  So what is the easiest way to get through airport security with gifts and food items?

The United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers a few tips on traveling with food or gifts on its website. www.tsa.gov. Often people will be carrying with them gifts which they have already wrapped. TSA does not prohibit wrapped gifts.  However, the security officers may unwrap the gift if it sets off an alarm or looks suspicious.  If you are traveling with gifts, leave them unwrapped and bring with you separately wrapping paper, ribbons, bows etc. which you can use to wrap the present after you reach your destination.  It's a simple tip but it saves time and trouble.

Many people like to bring food items either as gifts or to use in preparing holiday dinners at their destination.  The TSA has compiled a list of such items which it suggests should be placed in your checked bag, shipped ahead of time or left at home if in excess of the permitted 3.4 ounces.  These include cranberry sauce, cheese dips, jams, jellies and gift baskets containing such items.

Happy Holidays!