!: Airport Security - Top 5 Tips For Getting Through Faster

With the December 25th Amsterdam/Detroit terrorist attempt, airport security is forced to clamp down further on our already beleaguered process of getting from the check-in counter to the departure gate. Liquids, shoes, laptops, medicines, electronics, sharp objects, the number of carry-ons -- the list goes on and on of things that you need to worry about. So how do you make the whole security process go faster and smoother? Here's my top 5 list to help with that:

1. Empty your pockets into your briefcase or carry-on bag while you're waiting in line. Follow this with your watch and heavy jewelry. If you have a belt with a heavy buckle, then take that off, too. Waiting in line is just dead time so use it instead to get rid of everything -- cell phone, wallet, keys, mints, pens, change, etc. Do this as soon as you hit the line. If you wait until you get to the scanners so you can use the little dishes they provide, then you've added unnecessary minutes.

2. Avoid liquids and gels. If you have to bring them on (like in the case of medicines) then make sure you follow TSA rules to the letter. If you are used to bringing on board less essential items (toiletries, lotions, eye drops, etc.), then it's a good time to start putting them in your luggage and checking your bag.

3. Wear slip-on shoes. Anything without shoe laces will spare you the awkward untying, removing, putting back on, and re-tying drama. Some kind of penny loafer is good for the guys if you need to stay dressy for the flight. If you can travel casual, then you have more options like sandals, boat shoes, and slip-on sneakers.

4. Use a laptop bag with fast entry features like quick releases or zippers. Getting your laptop out should be a matter of a couple quick motions. If you have to do more than that, then it's a hassle and another unnecessary delay.

5. Put your airline ticket in your shirt pocket or back pants pocket. You need to show this to the security folks immediately after the scan, so you need to have it on your body somewhere. If you try to keep it in-hand during the whole process, then you'll end up setting it down somewhere and losing track of it. Tuck it away instead and avoid an embarrassing search that will further slow you down.