Top Tips to Get Through the Airport Faster

Let's face it: Airports can bring out interesting behaviors in all of us. There's something about a travel day that makes even the most organized person suddenly forget they packed a full-size shampoo. Or that moment when you're digging through your bag at security, certain you put your ID "somewhere safe."

But here's what seasoned travelers know: With a little strategy and planning, you can breeze through the airport while others are still figuring out which line they're supposed to be in. Ready to join the ranks of those mysteriously calm people who always seem to have time for coffee before boarding? Let's dive in.

Here's something funny: We'll spend hours researching our destination but somehow forget we can check in for our flight from the comfort of our couch. Airlines open online check-in 24 hours before your flight, and many now let you save your boarding pass straight to your phone wallet. That means no waiting at kiosks or counters unless you’re checking a bag.

Traveler Tip: “I set a reminder to check in the second it opens up,” one frequent flyer told us. “It takes like two minutes and always saves me at least 15 once I’m at the airport.” In travel time, those 15 minutes can mean the difference between a leisurely coffee and a mad dash to your gate.

Bonus Tip: Screenshot your boarding pass. Because phones sometimes misbehave at the worst possible moments, and cell coverage and Wi-Fi can be temperamental.

Security lines are, of course, the major hurdle when trying to get through the airport faster. That’s why programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR have been introduced. With PreCheck, you can breeze through without removing shoes, belts, laptops or liquids. CLEAR streamlines ID checking with biometric scans, moving you to the front of the line in seconds.

Yes, there’s an application and a fee upfront for both, but for anyone who travels more than a couple of times a year, these programs easily make themselves worth the cost (with other benefits as well). Instead of dragging behind a family unpacking four carry-ons and struggling to empty their kids’ pockets, you’re cruising by with your bags still zipped, already thinking about your in-flight playlist.

There are two types of carry-on packers: those who've thought about the security checkpoint, and those who are currently trying to extract a laptop that's somehow wedged between two shoes and a phone charger.

Smart packing isn't about minimalism – it's about strategy. Frequent flyers swear by the “one grab” method: Have all your pull-out items in a single pouch or sleeve so you can drop them in a bin without hesitation. In addition to being more prepared and feeling less stressed, you’ll have less to think about for those very early or very late flights and you’ll be less likely to lose or displace any of your other packed items.

If you’re deciding between a checked bag and a carry-on, think about your priorities. Carry-ons save time after landing and eliminate the wait at baggage claim, but they also come with stricter rules — like the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids/aerosols/gels policy and limits on sharp objects and battery-powered items. Checked bags, on the other hand, can make security simpler but may add time on both ends of your trip. Planning to get some souvenirs on the trip? Leave some space in your checked bag. Planning on moving fast and traveling more minimally? Stick to carry-ons.

Bonus: When you pack with security in mind, unpacking at your destination becomes surprisingly painless. Future you will appreciate current you's thoughtfulness.

Dive Deeper: What Should You Wear at the Airport? 

Success! You've made it through security with time to spare. But don’t let your guard down completely. Terminals are fascinating places, with plenty to see and do — which is great unless you're the type who gets distracted by shiny objects (guilty). Suddenly you're three shops deep, debating between identical phone chargers while your boarding time creeps closer.

Here's how to stay on track:

• Set a boarding reminder on your phone (boarding time, not departure time — there's a difference!)
• Check the monitors for gate updates (they change more often than you'd think)
• Pick a meeting spot if traveling with wanderers (usually near coffee — it's universal)
• Find your gate before shopping or getting distracted (don’t just take the computer’s word that it’s there)
• Remember that "final boarding" really does mean final

Not all airports are created equal, and that's okay. Some are massive adventures in themselves, while others focus on simplicity and efficiency. Knowing what you're working with helps set expectations.

Ontario International Airport (ONT) wants to provide an unparalleled travel experience any time you enter our doors. We've got quick-moving security lines, parking that's actually close to the terminal, and a straightforward layout that won't require breadcrumbs to find your way back. Plus, our therapy dogs (ONT Paw Squad) are on patrol because sometimes a friendly tail wag is exactly what you need before a flight.

The Best Shortcut Is Preparation

We wish we could give you a single magic secret to cut back on all your travel woes — but really, it comes down to a combination of small, thoughtful steps that all stack up to a smoother day. Check in before you leave home. Enroll in programs that help you skip security bottlenecks. Pack like you’ve rehearsed for the checkpoint. Stay aware but relaxed in the terminal. And whenever possible, choose an airport that genuinely cares about your time.

With these moves in your travel toolkit, you’ll spend less time standing in line and more time enjoying what really matters — whether that’s a head start on vacation, an unrushed sandwich before your flight or simply the peace of mind that comes when you’re already ahead of schedule.

Itching to get away? Check out our flights and find your next dream destination.