Say Goodbye To Airport Lines

Are you tired of long airport lines? As frequent travelers ourselves, we understand that navigating the airport can be a hassle, especially when you’re in a hurry to get to your destination. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of insider tips and tricks to help you breeze through airport lines and make your travel experience as smooth as possible.

Mobile Passport Control

Mobile Passport is a free smartphone app authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows eligible travelers to expedite their entry into the United States. Mobile Passport is available at select U.S. airports and cruise ports, and it’s open to U.S. citizens, Canadian citizens, and eligible visa holders. The app can save you time by allowing you to bypass long lines at the customs checkpoint and use a dedicated lane for Mobile Passport users. Here’s how it works:

• Download the Mobile Passport app: The app is available for free on both iOS and Android devices.
• Create your profile: Enter your passport information and personal details, such as your name, birthdate, and gender. You can also add your family members’ profiles if you’re traveling with them.
• Answer the customs declaration questions: Once you’ve arrived at your destination airport, open the app and answer the customs declaration questions. This is the same form you would normally fill out on the plane or at the airport.
• Submit your information: Submit your customs declaration form through the app.
• Get a receipt: After you submit your customs declaration form, you’ll receive an electronic receipt with an encrypted QR code.
• Proceed to the designated Mobile Passport Control (MPC) lane: Follow the signs to the designated Mobile Passport Control lane at the customs checkpoint. Show your electronic receipt and passport to the customs officer, and they’ll process your entry into the United States.

To learn more about Mobile Passport, visit: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control

TSA Precheck

TSA PreCheck is designed to speed up the security screening process for domestic flights. Once approved, PreCheck members can go through a dedicated security lane where they can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave liquids and laptops in their carry-on bags. This can help save time and reduce stress during the security process.

• Apply for TSA Pre-Check: You can apply for TSA Pre-Check online by completing an application and scheduling an appointment at an enrollment center. The application fee is $85 and is valid for five years.
• Attend your appointment: Bring your required documentation, such as your passport and driver’s license, to your appointment at the enrollment center. Your fingerprints will be taken and a background check will be conducted.
• Receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN): If you’re approved for TSA Pre-Check, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) via email or mail. This number is valid for five years and can be used when booking your flights.
• Add your KTN to your airline reservations: When booking your flights, add your KTN to your airline reservations to ensure that you’re eligible for TSA Pre-Check.
• By using TSA Pre-Check, you can enjoy several advantages that can make your travel experience more enjoyable:
• Expedited security screening: TSA Pre-Check allows you to use a dedicated lane for pre-screened passengers, which can significantly reduce wait times.
• No need to remove your shoes, belt, or jacket: You can keep your shoes, belt, and jacket on during the screening process, which can save you time and reduce stress.
• Keep your electronics and liquids in your bag: You can leave your electronics, such as laptops and tablets, and liquids in your carry-on bag, which can also save you time and reduce stress.
• Available at 200+ airports: TSA Pre-Check is available at more than 200 airports across the United States, including major hubs like JFK, LAX, and ORD.

To learn more about TSA Precheck, visit: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

Global Entry

Global Entry is a program that expedites the customs process for international travelers. Once approved for Global Entry, members can use automated kiosks when entering the US after international travel. This allows for a faster and more streamlined customs process, as members don’t have to fill out customs forms or wait in long lines.

Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, so members are automatically eligible for expedited security screening on domestic flights; however, TSA PreCheck does not include Global Entry benefits, so PreCheck members would still have to go through the regular customs process when returning from an international trip.

Here’s how it works:

• Apply for TSA Global Entry: You can apply for TSA Global Entry online by completing an application and scheduling an appointment at an enrollment center. The application fee is $100 and is valid for five years.
• Attend your appointment: Bring your required documentation, such as your passport and driver’s license, to your appointment at the enrollment center. Your fingerprints will be taken and a background check will be conducted.
• Receive your Trusted Traveler Number (TTN): If you’re approved for TSA Global Entry, you’ll receive a Trusted Traveler Number (TTN) via email or mail. This number is valid for five years and can be used when booking your international flights.
• Use the Global Entry kiosks: When you arrive in the United States, head to the Global Entry kiosks, where you’ll scan your passport, fingerprints, and TTN. The kiosk will then print a receipt, which you’ll give to the customs officer.
• By using TSA Global Entry, you can enjoy several advantages that can make your international travel experience more enjoyable:
• Expedited customs process: TSA Global Entry allows you to use a dedicated lane for pre-screened passengers, which can significantly reduce wait times at customs.
• No need to fill out customs forms: You don’t need to fill out customs forms, which can save you time and reduce stress.
• Available at 70+ airports: TSA Global Entry is available at more than 70 airports across the United States and is accepted at more than 75 airports worldwide.

To learn more about TSA Precheck, visit: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

Online Check-In

Many airlines allow you to check-in online up to 24 hours before your flight. By doing this, you’ll be able to bypass the check-in line at the airport and head straight to the security checkpoint.

Mobile Boarding Pass

Most airlines now offer mobile boarding passes that you can download to your phone. This means you won’t have to print out your boarding pass or stand in the boarding pass line.

Pack Light

If possible, pack only a carry-on bag. This will allow you to avoid the long lines at baggage check and save time when you arrive at your destination.

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