Inching your way through airport security is never a pleasant experience, even if you are going on holiday. But if you fly frequently for business, then it can become even more of a dreaded chore. However with the right planning, you can really minimise the stress and hassle, letting you focus on the more important elements of your business travel.
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- Apply for Global Entry
For the ultimate in queue dodging, Global Entry is a pre-screening programme open to citizens of the US, UK, Germany and the Netherlands among others. You will go through a testing screening process, including an interview and background checks, but the benefits include skipping airport security at many major airports. For more Global Entry information you can also view this simplified guide for better understanding.
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- Frequent Flyer Status
Another way to escape the crowds is to gain elite status on a frequent flyer scheme. This allows you to go through security with first or business class travellers, regardless of your ticket. Since fewer people fly business and first class, this really cuts down the time spent in security.
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- Use smart storage
They don’t look smart – but then they are never seen. A personal belt to store your passport, cash, phone, keys and important documents ensures that all your items are safe so you won’t be rifling through your pockets as you stand in line. Best of all, you’ll be able to put the whole thing on the scanning machine’s conveyer belt in one fell swoop.
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- Ditch the work outfit…
If you’re travelling for business, you might be tempted to board the plane suited and booted. But unless you’re meeting a client at the airport, why not ditch the suit and minimise the time spent removing belts, lace-up shoes, large watches and other paraphernalia, all of which can add time to your dealings with airport security?
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- …Or tailor your outfit for travel
If you do have to wear work clothes to the airport, plan ahead. Wear trousers that don’t need a metal belt so you don’t have to take it off to scan. Smart slip-on shoes like loafers will help speed things up too.
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- Don’t be afraid to ask
If one of the priority security lanes is deserted while yours is jam-packed, why not simply ask the security staff if you can go through there? At worst, they will say no. At best, you skip ahead of the queue!
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- Get the app
America’s Transport Security Administration has developed an app that tells you exactly what you can and can’t bring through airport security. It’s called ‘Can I Bring…’ and you can find it here.
At Simplexity Travel Management, we know that companies just want effective, hitch-free business travel for all their employees. That’s why we make it our mission to ensure everything runs smoothly for our corporate clients. To see what our business travel managers can do for your business, speak to us today on 0203 535 9290, or email corporate@simplexitytravel.com.