9 ways to skip airport lines

Getting through an airport doesn’t have to be a headache. You can potentially avoid long lines and get through TSA faster by upgrading your seat or becoming a member of a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry. But there are some other ways to minimize time spent in airport lines, too.

With a little preparation, you might even find yourself enjoying your next airport experience. Keep reading to learn how to get through the airport faster.

What you’ll learn:

• You can potentially skip airport lines by becoming a member of a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry. 

• Some airlines offer elite statuses that you can upgrade to so you can get priority boarding and separate security lines at certain airports.

TSA PreCheck® can be a great way to save time when flying domestically. In addition to skipping the longer security lines, members aren’t usually required to remove laptops, shoes, belts, light jackets or toiletry liquids at security screening checkpoints. 

To qualify, you’ll need to submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting. A five-year TSA PreCheck® membership costs up to $85, depending on where you enroll and the enrollment type—new or renewal. You can visit the TSA website to learn more and enroll.

Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for members entering the U.S. A five-year Global Entry membership is $100. The extra money for a Global Entry membership might be worth it if you’re planning to travel internationally. Plus, it includes access to TSA PreCheck®.

If you use your eligible Capital One Venture, Venture X, Venture X Business or Spark 2X Miles card to pay your TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee and become a member of either program, you can get a statement credit of up to $100.* Cardholders are eligible for one statement credit per account every four years. You may want to keep that in mind when it’s time to renew your membership.

CLEAR® Plus is a paid private membership that verifies travelers with biometric technology to allow for quicker screening at airports and arenas in the U.S. CLEAR Plus members use a separate CLEAR kiosk to verify their identity and then move to the front of the security line. But compared to TSA PreCheck®, airport options may be more limited.

Many airlines offer elite status that can help travelers go through airport security lines faster by offering benefits like:

• Priority boarding

• Dedicated security lines at some airports

• Free checked bags

• Additional companion benefits for those traveling with an elite member

In most cases, you can gain elite status through points programs or by using airline credit cards. And in some cases, elite status packages can be purchased directly from the airline. 

If you decide an elite status package isn’t for you, you may be able to pay your airline to get priority status in airport security lines, depending on which airport you’re using and where you’re flying. Purchasing a priority status ticket may allow you to get through check-in and security lines faster and board earlier.

Many airlines typically let you check in online up to 24 hours in advance if you’re eligible. Checking in online won’t help you avoid security lines, but you may be able to skip the ticket counter.

Print your tickets before leaving for the airport or bring a digital copy. Some airlines have mobile apps that make it easy to check in, get flight status updates and access your boarding pass right on your phone. And you might even be able to snag your preferred seat during online check-in.

Limiting yourself to a carry-on instead of checking a bag can save you time. 

First, you can skip the bag-check line before boarding your flight. Second, you won’t have to wait at the baggage claim area once you land. Plus, you can avoid the risk of checked luggage being delayed or lost in transit. 

Just double-check that your carry-on bag meets your airline’s weight and size restrictions.

Want to avoid holiday lines at the airport? Consider extending your trip or going to your destination during an off-peak time to avoid these busy travel days. You might also be able to bypass delays by choosing a morning flight instead of an afternoon flight.

Some airports—especially big travel hubs—are infamous for longer security lines. But if you’re traveling through a major city, you may have options to avoid long lines and crowds. 

Many big cities have multiple airports. And flying in or out of a smaller, less centrally located airport might help you avoid the longest lines.

Having an understanding of TSA’s rules and regulations might also help you move through airport lines more smoothly.

Here are some general tips that may ease the screening process:

• Take your laptop out of its case and place it in an individual bin unless you’re using TSA PreCheck®. 

• Make sure any liquids you’re carrying are in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a quart-size, clear plastic bag. These should be placed in a separate bin.

• Remember to empty your pockets and place any items in a bin.

With a little planning and the right tools, you may be able to avoid long lines at the airport. And with less time spent in lines, you might be able to spend extra time exploring a new city or grabbing some local food.

To make your travel-planning experience easier, consider one of Capital One’s travel credit cards. You can earn unlimited miles on flights, hotels, rental cars and more to get rewarded for the way you travel.