Back to Airport Guide
Security Mastery

Going Through Security
Without the Stress

Mastering the security checkpoint is the key to starting your journey calmly and efficiently. Follow this step-by-step guide to become a navigation pro.

Accessibility Options

Before You Arrive at the Airport Choose Your Lane Wisely In the Security Line: Be Ready At the Divesting Table Through the Scanner Expedited Screening Programs
📋
FREE

Get Your FREE Security Checklist

Complete printable checklist covering every step • From packing to reassembly • Never forget a detail • Perfect for first-time flyers and pros alike

Get Your Free Checklist

Before You Arrive at the Airport

Preparation is everything

Back to Top

1 Know the 3-1-1 Rule

The 3-1-1 Rule Explained

3
3.4 oz (100ml) or less per container
1
1 quart-sized clear, resealable bag
1
1 bag per passenger in a bin

What Counts as a Liquid?

  • Liquids (water, juice, perfume)
  • Gels (hair gel, hand sanitizer)
  • Creams & lotions (moisturizer, sunscreen)
  • Aerosols (hairspray, deodorant spray)
  • Pastes (toothpaste, lip gloss)
  • Food items (peanut butter, yogurt, jam)

Exemptions & Exceptions

  • Prescription medications in any amount (declare to officer)
  • Baby formula, breast milk in reasonable quantities
  • Medically necessary liquids (insulin, contact lens solution)
  • Duty-free liquids in sealed tamper-evident bags

Pro Tips for Liquids:

  • • Buy a dedicated quart-sized bag - Keep it ready in your travel kit
  • • Pack solid alternatives - Solid deodorant, bar soap, powder makeup don't count
  • • Buy liquids after security - You can bring full-sized bottles purchased in the sterile area
  • • Check larger bottles - Put full-size toiletries in checked luggage
  • • Empty reusable bottles - Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after security

2 Pack Smart

Electronics

Keep larger electronics (laptops, tablets, game consoles) in an easy-access outer pocket of your carry-on. TSA may require them in a separate bin.

Liquids Bag

Pack your quart-sized bag at the very top of your carry-on or in an outer pocket.

Prohibited Items

Double-check the website for questionable items. When in doubt, leave it out or pack it in checked luggage.

3 Dress for Success

  • Wear minimal metal. Avoid belts with large buckles, chunky jewelry, or complex shoes
  • Opt for slip-on shoes you can easily remove and put back on
  • Consider a jacket or sweatshirt you can quickly take off and place in a bin

💡 Insider Pro Tip: Choose Your Lane Wisely

Beat the crowd with this simple strategy

Back to Top

Here's a secret most travelers don't know: 90% of people automatically veer right when they approach security.

Look Left First

Before joining a line, scan the left side of the security checkpoint. These lanes are often significantly shorter.

Avoid Family Groups

Skip lines with families or large groups. They typically take longer due to multiple bags, strollers, and inexperienced travelers.

The Winning Strategy:

Look for lanes with solo business travelers or small groups of adults. They move through security faster and more efficiently.

In the Security Line: Be Ready

Stay alert and prepared

Back to Top
1

Have Your Documents Out

Hold your boarding pass and government-issued photo ID (or passport) in your hand as you approach the TSA officer.

2

Listen & Observe

Pay attention to instructions from TSA agents. Note if it's a Standard or TSA PreCheck line.

3

Start Prepping

While in line, remove your:

  • Liquids bag
  • Large electronics
  • Jacket/outerwear

At the Divesting Table (The Conveyor Belt)

Think of this as an assembly line

Organize your bins in this order for a smooth reclaim on the other side:

Back to Top
1

Bin 1: Pockets

Empty your pockets (keys, phone, wallet, loose change) directly into a bin. A travel pouch for these items can streamline this.

2

Bin 2: Shoes & Jacket

Your shoes and jacket go in this bin.

3

Bin 3: Laptop/Tablet

Your laptop/tablet (alone in its own bin).

4

Bin 4: Liquids & Small Items

Your liquids bag and any other small items.

5

Your Carry-On

Place your suitcase/backpack directly on the belt last.

✈️ Pro Tip

Use a TSA-approved laptop sleeve that allows you to leave your laptop inside the bag during screening. A clear, TSA-compliant toiletry bag also speeds up the process.

Through the Scanner

Follow instructions carefully

Back to Top
  • Follow the agent's instructions
  • Step into the scanner when directed, assume the position (feet on markers, hands overhead), and wait for the all-clear
  • If you opt out of the scanner, you are entitled to a pat-down. This is your right

If You're Selected for Additional Screening

Stay calm—it's often random

Back to Top
  • Stay calm and cooperative. It's often random
  • For a pat-down, you can request it to be conducted in a private area and/or by an officer of your gender
  • You have the right to witness the screening of your belongings

Post-Security: The Reassembly Zone

You made it!

Back to Top
  • Move efficiently to the benches to put your shoes and belt back on and reorganize
  • Double-check your bins and the conveyor belt to ensure you haven't left anything behind
  • Take a breath—you made it! Now find your gate
Back to Top
Expedited Screening Programs

🚀 Level Up: PreCheck, Global Entry & CLEAR

Skip the stress with expedited security programs

PreCheck

Valid for 5 Years

Benefits:

  • Keep shoes, belts, light jackets on
  • Leave laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in bag
  • Use dedicated, faster lines

How to Enroll:

  1. 1. Apply online at gov website
  2. 2. Schedule in-person appointment
  3. 3. Bring valid ID & fingerprints taken
  4. 4. Receive approval in 3-5 days
Sign Up for PreCheck

Global Entry

Valid for 5 Years

Benefits:

  • Includes all PreCheck benefits
  • Expedited U.S. customs re-entry
  • Skip long customs lines

How to Enroll:

  1. 1. Apply online at CBP.gov/GE
  2. 2. Pay $100 application fee
  3. 3. Schedule interview at enrollment center
  4. 4. Bring passport & complete interview
  5. 5. Approval typically within 1 week
Sign Up for Global Entry

CLEAR

Annual Renewal Required

Benefits:

  • Uses biometrics (fingerprints/eyes)
  • Skips the ID check line completely
  • Best combined with PreCheck

How to Enroll:

  1. 1. Sign up at ClearMe.com
  2. 2. Download the CLEAR app
  3. 3. Enroll at airport CLEAR kiosk
  4. 4. Provide fingerprints & eye scan
  5. 5. Use immediately after enrollment
Sign Up for CLEAR

Final Word

The key to stress-free security is preparation at home and awareness in line. By packing and dressing intentionally, you transform the security checkpoint from a chaotic hurdle into a simple, systematic step in your journey.

Back to Airport Guide View All Flying Tips