Airport Security Screening: Rules and Tips for Travellers

Tagoo experts say that screening may vary slightly from country to country or airport to airport, but the basic requirements remain the same. The aim of security screening is to use special equipment to check you and your luggage to make sure you are not carrying prohibited items such as weapons, explosive, flammable or sharp objects. This is to ensure your safety and that of other passengers.

Please note that you will need to scan your ticket to enter the security screening area, so make sure it is easily accessible and that you do not get stuck at the screening gate. If you are using an e-ticket, don't forget to charge your mobile phone to avoid any problems.

So what should you know and how to prepare?

To save time and avoid delays, make sure that the items that must be removed from your hand luggage at check-in are easily accessible and conveniently placed.

Before you leave home, make sure that your cosmetics and other liquids (deodorants, perfumes, gels, creams, toothpaste, shaving foam, etc.) are packed in containers of up to 100 ml and placed in a transparent plastic bag. Each passenger may carry up to 1 litre of liquids in 100 ml containers, which must fit into a 1 litre bag.

Please note that larger containers of liquids, even if unfilled, are prohibited and you will be asked to remove them from your hand luggage.

Baby food (breast milk, formula, water or special purees) and essential medicines are exceptions to the liquid rule. You can carry them separately, but you must report them to the security staff, who can carry out additional checks.

Electronic devices such as a laptop, tablet, mobile phone must be removed from your hand luggage and placed in a special box for screening - they cannot be covered by other items. Sometimes other larger electronics, such as cameras or games consoles, may also require separate scanning, so pack them in a way that makes them easy to remove when needed.

Once all your items have been placed on the rollers, you will need to go through the body scanner.

Don't forget to empty your pockets - put your keys, tissues, phone and other small items in the designated box along with other items. You should also take off your belt and take off your watch. At some airports, you may have to take off your shoes or remove massive jewellery and hair pins.

Even if you do everything correctly, the metal detector can sometimes still react. In this case, you will be searched by a screener, either manually or with a portable metal detector.

Tagoo experts reassure you that if the staff scan your luggage and find any suspicious items, you will be asked to open your bag for a more detailed examination. Don't be upset by this request - screening is a thorough procedure, so let the staff do their job as quickly as possible and don't get involved in arguments or additional questions. When packing your hand luggage, be sure to check the list of prohibited items and follow all the rules.

It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight to avoid stress or possible delays. For major airports around the world, it is recommended to arrive 3-4 hours before your flight. Security screening is usually quick, and if you are properly prepared and organised, you will be able to get through it without any hassle and enjoy your journey with peace of mind, saving you time for a quiet cup of coffee or shopping at the Duty Free shop.

Tagoo wishes you successful flights!