six mistakes you should avoid at the airport security

Getting past security can be one of the most stressful parts of your air travel, especially if you’re running late. Avoiding these common mistakes to help make your travels smoother and stress-free.

Not being aware of the rules in the country

Besides the obvious items that could get confiscated such as liquids, flammable, combustibles, and shart items. It is also important to research the items that are banned in certain countries. For instance, in the Maldives, you are not allowed to carry idols of worship, religious books, pork and pork products, and alcohol in your hand luggage as well as your check-in baggage. When travelling to Dubai, oil paintings, photographs, pictures, cards, books, magazines, stone sculptures and mannequins which contradict Islamic teachings, decencies, or deliberately implying immorality or turmoil are banned. In France, Brie and other soft cheese are counted as liquid. So,  while a small amount of it is allowed, you should stopped for carrying an entire wheel. Several countries have alos banned tent pegs, so if you plan to camp on holiday make sure check it in. 

Dressing in a way that slows you down

To save yourself and others from long queues, it’s important to dress in a way that gets you past security quickly. Wearing chunky shoes or shoes with a lot of metal detailing could get officials to ask you to take your shoes off. Wearing oversized jackets and hoodies could also lead to additional checks. Accessorising your outfit with plenty of jewellery and hair accessories could also lead you to spend a lot of time removing them if the alarm goes off. Remember to empty your pockets thoroughly because the smallest items could get you delayed.

Not packing your liquids in see-through pouches

You are allowed to carry travel-sized containers of make-up, creams, liquids, aerosols, gels and pastes in your hand baggage. The container has to be limited to 100ml or 3.4 ounces. Placing the items in a small transparent bag facilitates a quicker screening process. The items should also fit into a resealable bag. This means you cannot distribute perfume among 20 100ml bottles.

Burying your electronics deep in your bag

Stashing your electronics at the bottom leads you to the back of the queue. All the things that need to be scanned separately should be readily accessible so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Keep your laptop, phone, chargers, earphones, tablet or Kindle handy or at the top of your carry-on luggage. Ensure your liquids are compliant with the size permitted by the country. Pack your liquids in a Ziploc that’s easy to remove. Make sure you keep your documents such as your passport and boarding pass in a separate compartment or pouch in case you are required to present them once you are past the security check.

Not scanning through an old bag before you pack

Before you start packing, inspect the pockets to look for questionable items. During your road trips, you could have packed a nail cutter or sharp object that could be unharmful if you weren’t getting on to a flight. If travelling with children, avoid carrying toys that look like a firearm or knife.

Not investing in Global Entry when travelling to the US

Indians who frequently travel to the United States can sign up for Global Entry which also gives you access to a TSA pre-check. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that quickens the security and immigration process for pre-approved, low-risk travellers when they arrive and depart from the United States. The expedited version of the screening process does not require eligible travellers to remove their shoes, belts and laptops, which helps you clear security in less than five minutes. The program members can also directly go to Global Entry kiosks at US airports and present their machine-readable passport or U.S permanent resident card, place their fingerprints on the scanner for verification and complete a customs declaration. The kiosk then issues the traveller a receipt and directs them to baggage claim and the exit