(1st and 3rd image not mine)
Airport security can be one of the most stressful places on earth, but it doesn't have to be! Here are some of my top tips to make the airport easier, calmer and stress free.
Follow the rules
Is it obvious? Yes. Does everyone do it? No.
There are rules for your carry on luggage that need to be followed. Research into this before you pack for your trip and ensure your luggage meets the requirements.
For example, these are some of the restrictions we have in the UK:
All liquids must be 100ml or under and placed in a clear, sealable bag of 20x20cm and no larger than 1litre. Liquid bags are limited to 1 per person
Check with the airline for the size and weight restrictions on carry on luggage
Check with the airline if you can have BOTH hand and carry on luggage (depending on the ticket you have purchased will depend on whether you can take both. Hand luggage will have to fit under the seat in-front of you, carry on luggage goes in the overhead compartments)
Lighters must be kept on your person and in a clear bag
Separate your liquids and electronics
This one should really go without saying! Staff will tell you to do this the second you join the line.
The best way I find to do it is to physically separate these items in your carry on. Have ALL your liquids (including things like mascara, lip balm and creams) in a clear bag, sealed up and kept separate in your carry on. Put all your electronics in a back compartment or separate zip compartment so they can be located easily once at the airport (this includes battery packs/portable chargers)
Avoid wearing belts, boots and excessive jewellery
Having to remove belts and boots will really slow you down. If it's possible, wear clothing that doesn't require a belt (you can always pack your belt and put it on once through security if needed) and wear trainers or converse. I always wear jewellery, I have lots of piercings, a necklace and some bracelets that I never take off. I've not had an issue with these before, the only time I've had an issue due to jewellery is when I wore an excessive amount (multiple bracelets and necklaces). Oh, don't wear your watch either. Just pack it in your bag, with your belt, and pop it on when you're in the airport departure lounge.
Pack your own bag!
While it may seem lovely that your partner or family member has offered to pack for you, don't let them! You need to be in charge of your own luggage, you need to know what is in there and where everything is.
Don't be late
Nothing adds to airport stress like being delayed at security. Give yourself time! Once you have got through security you can sit at your leisure in the departure lounge, reading, browsing the shops, having some breakfast or a cheeky airport pint. It's better to be early and to give yourself more time just in-case there are unexpected queues or delays.
Have your flight details ready
Not always a necessity for security as such, but having all your details ready to hand, all in one place, will really help you if you get stuck. This tip is more for dealing with airports abroad, where English may be limited. I find it easier to have the paperwork to point at when asking for help or being asked about where I am going/my visa status etc.
I put this tip in just because when I left Indonesia a member of staff was concerned I didn't have a visa for Australia, I kept telling him it was electronically attached to my passport but he wasn't getting it. Eventually I showed him the print out confirmation of my approved visa and he was happy.
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