Navigating through airport security can be a real hassle for travelers, with long lines and confusing rules. This problem becomes even more frustrating when you're in a hurry to catch your flight, as the security lines tend to move slowly. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can use to get through security more quickly. One popular strategy is to always choose the left line at airport security, which usually allows you to pass the checkpoint faster. Let's not waste time anymore and dive in together!
So why the left security line might be your best bet?
Source: lifeforstock/Freepik
Reason behind the shorter left line
According to sociological theories, people tend to stick to what feels comfortable rather than what may be the most efficient. This idea also applies to travel. One common mistake that many flyers make is going straight to the center line because it's the first one they see. This is often due to inexperience or a tendency to follow the crowd, as people usually go into less-than-ideal situations.
Another theory about why the left line is best has to do with hand dominance. In Western countries, around 85% to 90% of people are right-handed, and they tend to look and drift toward the right side. At the airport, this means that people may follow that instinct and end up in the rightmost line at security. Assuming that both of these theories are accurate, the left line will probably be the least congested and, as a result, the most efficient choice.
Make adjustments if needed
The left security line may seem the quickest, but that's not always the case. Before joining a line, take a moment to observe how fast each one is moving. Just because a line is the shortest doesn't mean it's the fastest. That line could have TSA agents who are slower at checking people's bags. Once you've assessed how quickly each line is progressing, choose the one that looks fastest and hope for the best.
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Come ready
No matter which line you decide to use, it's important to be prepared to get through security quickly and make it easier for the passengers behind you. First, keep your passport or identification in an easily accessible location. You should also pack your bags so that you can easily remove any electronics or liquids when asked and wear as few accessories as possible so you don't potentially hold up the line. In addition, as you approach the front of the line, be sure to listen for any important instructions. If you're focused on your phone, you may miss useful announcements that could help reduce the security backlog.
Spot the inconspicuous line
If the security line on the far left looks just as crowded as the others, you might be out of luck. But some airports have a "secret" security line that you can use. Not all airports have this, but if they do, it's usually an extra line that they use when the main ones get too busy. If you're running late for your flight, you can talk to a customer service agent. They may be able to tell you if there's a backup line you can use.
Enroll in expedited travel programs
Certain programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear can really make a difference when going through airport security. All of these require paying a fee and passing a background check. But once you're approved, you'll get to use special security lines that typically move much faster than the regular lines. That's because travelers in these programs don't have to take off their shoes, liquids, or laptops. Clear even lets members reserve a spot in the security line at many airports worldwide, making the process even faster.
