How to Make Airport Check-In Fast and Safe

Lines are longer and restrictions tighter than ever before. Research before leaving will enable you to travel with more security and ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Boarding pass
• Packing List
• Copies of travel documents

1. Be a list-maker and keep the lists in your carry-on. Copies of your passport, itinerary and travel documents will protect you against accidents. A list of the contents of your bags will remind you of what you have and need and insure you don't leave anything behind.

2. Keep valuables in your carry-on, including prescription drugs, jewelry, money, tickets.

3. If you want to lock your suitcase, you must procure a TSA lock which airport security can open for inspection. You can find them or a nearby location on TSA.com.

4. By taking only a small carry-on, you can avoid possible baggage loss and long waits for baggage to be unloaded. If that's not possible, be sure to identify your luggage with a bright ribbon or sticker for fast and easy retention from the baggage wheel.

5. Print our your boarding pass before leaving home to avoid long airport lines.

6. Arrive at the time your airline designates. If you are not checked in 45 minutes before departure, the airline can and will sell your seat and put you on a later flight. It's in the computer. There's no help to be had from airline personnel.

7. Check in at the curb line which is shorter than the one inside the terminal.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your spirit of adventure. Don't lose your cool with fellow travelers who can teach you much and learn from you.
• Keep an eye on your purse, carry-on, laptop in the terminal. If you set it down, keep a strap under your foot or place it where you can feel it. Be wary but remember why you wanted to go in the first place.