Hand luggage 'hacks': How to speed through airport security quickly - 'common sense' | Travel News | Travel | Express.co.uk

2022-06-09 08:13:09 By : Ms. Stephanie Chow

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Security queues can be some of the longest in the airport, especially at peak travel times during the summer months. However, according to one traveller, there is a "common sense" approach to cutting down your wait time.

Sharing to an "airline travel hacks" forum on Reddit, one traveller said they believe the key to getting through the security line and into departures faster relies on everyone being a little bit more organised.

The user named Dahlia said: "Slip-on shoes and no belts, jewellery, metal hair clips, etc.

"Make sure any toiletries or electronics that need to come out of your bag are easily accessible."

She added: "You’d think this would be common sense at this point, but somehow there’s always that one person in line at security who’s going through an entire wardrobe change and taking ages to do so."

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Part of the airport security process means electronic items will need to be removed from bags before going through the scanner.

Likewise, any metal items on your person, including keys or spare change, will need to be removed from pockets and placed in a scanner tray.

This will ensure you do not unexpectedly beep going through the body scanner and hold up the line for an unnecessary search.

Gatwick Airport backs up the Reddit user's travel "hack" and encourages holidaymakers to remove key items from luggage before loading their bags onto the security bag belt.

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The London airport said: "One of the most visible aspects of the security process is making sure our passengers do not take on-board prohibited items.

"Help us to make this quicker for you, by following a few guidelines.

"Knowing what’s allowed and what’s not allowed before you arrive – as well as allowing yourself plenty of time to follow all the security procedures when you get to Gatwick – will save you time and inconvenience and make your journey more enjoyable."

Gatwick Airport added: "Take your laptop, iPad, Kindle and any other similar, large electrical items out of your hand baggage to be x-rayed separately. Remove coats, jackets and belts.

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"They will need to be x-rayed along with your bag.

"You may be asked to remove your shoes before going through the security archway."

As well as electronic items, Gatwick Airport also advised people to "place all of their liquid toiletries in one transparent, re-sealable, airtight plastic bag of 20cm x 20cm in size ready to be x-rayed separately from your bag."

Having your boarding pass ready to scan before entering security will also make for a smooth transit.

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