Folium: Breeze Your Way Through TSA Security via Gizmodo

Posted by LEAF Architect on Monday, November 19, 2012 · Leave a Comment

Photo via AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser

Folium: Breeze Your Way Through TSA Security via Gizmodo

Hating on the TSA is an easy thing to do. The entire airport security process is known for being a slow, painstaking, and often degrading experience for all travelers. The TSA has incurred wrath from every angle imaginable, yet still secures the skies for millions of passengers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This is not to say that I’m a fan of the process, or even the methods that the TSA employs in the name of national security. In many aspects I find them deplorable. However, from time to time, we see that they work.

Look, nobody likes dealing with TSA checkpoints—being treated like criminal cattle is degrading—but that doesn’t make it ok to vent your frustrations at the nearest TSO. For one thing, you are neither the first nor last snippy traveler to walk through their scanners today. Your attitude might make you feel superior and relieve some anger, but it only serves to irritate the officers and practically guarantee your secondary inspection. So, in general, keep your mouth shut and don’t be a pest. And try not to harass the other slowpoke passengers who obviously didn’t read this article. Behave like an adult and we might all just get through this checkpoint by December. – Gizmodo

As we approach the holiday season, might I suggest a healthy dose of patience mixed with preparation. This article has many good points to remember, and I’m going to suggest a few more.

Be patient. Impatience doesn’t make the line go faster, and it certainly doesn’t make security work harder. Getting upset will do nothing but raise your blood pressure. Take your meds.

Be informed. I’m often surprised by people who are shocked and appalled by long lines and screening procedures. Know what’s coming and what to do at each point in the process. Check your local airport or TSA website for details on what to expect!

Be prepared. Jackets, shoes, and belts need to be removed. Slip-ons for the win. Have your passport / ID and boarding passes out and ready. They will be checked. Many times. Laptops and big electronics will need to be removed. No loose change, keys.

Don’t be dumb. People try and take knives, guns, grenades, chemicals, massive bottles of liquids, and other things on board all of the time. You’ve heard this on the news, and a thousand times at the airport. Who honestly “forgets” a six-inch hunting knife or a loaded 9mm pistol in their carry-on luggage?

Check out the article for more tips on TSA survival. If we all endure the process a little smarter, we can all make this experience better for everyone!