1. Get carded: Boarding pass? Check. ID? Check. Whether you’re a frequent flier or travel just once a year, you know the drill, so stop acting surprised when you’re asked to show them. Shave off seconds in the security line by pulling out these items and having them in your hand early.
2. Stay in your lane: Just like in traffic and when walking down the street, stay in your lane. If it is the security line, keep your hands free to swiftly go through the metal detector or scanner.
3. Dress for success: Limit the amount of items you have to take off when travelling through security – think sweaters, belts, hats, watches and jewellery that could set off the alarm. Not only does this make for a speedy transition for you, but everyone in line behind you will be thankful.
4. Family feud: If you’re traveling with kids in tow, decide in advance who is holding what and which caretaker is helping which child hoist what items through the scanner and ushering who through security.
5. Everything but the kitchen sink: Even if you are traveling with kids, pack light. Airlines have restrictions on the number of carry-on items for a reason. A good rule of thumb: If you can’t carry it yourself without assistance from a luggage cart or a posse, you’ve packed too much.
6. Easy access: Pack your laptop and tablet in an easily accessible place like the side pocket of your suitcase or a compartment in your backpack to make it easy to slide the device in and out of your bag.
7. Choose the place: If at any time during the security screening process you feel frustrated, try to go with the flow or if you need to vent, take to social media or call later. This isn’t the time to talk back or ask a million process questions.
8. Politely power up: When you’re done charging your device(s), move away from the charging station to allow other travellers to power up before take-off. Better yet, bring your own power strip and make some new friends.
9. Know your space: Once you have a seat at your gate, don’t hog the entire row by putting your belongings on each seat. Instead, grab an aisle seat and neatly stack your items next to it. Not only will you get easy access to board the plane, but you won’t look like an impolite passenger either.
10. Don’t be a gate crasher: Regardless of where you’re sitting, don’t hover at the gate. Wait for your row or zone to be called and then approach the gate with your boarding pass in hand. And always plan your pre-boarding activities accordingly so you don’t hold up the rest of the flight.
Infographic by: www.cheapflights.com.au