Are you looking forward to your trip, but the thought of going through security at the airport gives you a stomach ache? Don't worry, you're not alone! Many travelers find airport security checks stressful and nerve-wracking. But that doesn't have to be the case. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can pass through security quickly and without stress. We'll show you how you can best prepare and what you should bear in mind so that your journey can begin in a relaxed manner.
Why is the airport security check so important?
The airport security check is a crucial part of every flight. But why is it actually so important? Many travelers who have to go through the security check ask themselves this question. The answer is simple: safety and security. The main task of security control is to ensure the safety of all passengers, the flight crew and the aircraft itself. Strict controls of hand luggage and suitcases are used to identify dangerous items such as weapons or explosive materials and remove them from circulation. This prevents potential threats and protects against possible attacks.
Since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, security screening has also played a crucial role in the fight against terrorism. Security measures at airports worldwide have been tightened considerably and the introduction of modern technology and stricter regulations has helped to make flying safer than ever before.
In addition, security screening helps to ensure compliance with international regulations and standards. Cooperation between different countries and airports ensures that security protocols are similar and effective worldwide.
In short, airport security screening is essential to ensure a safe and reliable flying experience. It not only protects against immediate dangers, but also helps to maintain confidence in the safety of air travel. By undergoing these checks, we all contribute to making travel safer for ourselves and others.
Tips for preparing for the airport security check
Security checks at the airport can often be stressful and time-consuming, especially if you don't know exactly what to expect. But with a few simple preparations, you can make this process much easier. In this section, we give you valuable tips on how to prepare for the security check in the best possible way so that you can start your journey relaxed and stress-free. From packing your liquids correctly to clothing tips - here you can find out everything you need to know to pass through security quickly and smoothly.
Keep your travel documents to hand: Always have your passport, ticket and other necessary documents to hand. This will speed up the process and avoid unnecessary delays.
Pack liquids correctly: Make sure that all liquids are in containers of no more than 100 ml and that they are packed in a transparent, resealable bag. This regulation complies with international safety guidelines and makes it easier to check.
Stow electronic devices properly: Laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices must be checked separately. Pack them so that they are easily accessible and can be quickly removed from your hand luggage.
Comfortable clothing and shoes: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off and put on again. Avoid metal accessories such as belts or jewelry to speed up the security check.
Pack hand baggage in an organized way: Pack your hand baggage so that all items that need to be scanned, such as liquids and electronics, are kept in easily accessible places. Good organization saves time and nerves.
Arrive at the airport early: Allow enough time for the security check. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure so that you can go through all the steps stress-free. Many airports now also offer the option of booking a time slot for check-in, such as Hamburg Airport's Slot & Fly.
Medication and medical devices: If you are carrying medication or medical devices, have the relevant prescriptions or medical certificates ready. This will make checks easier and prevent misunderstandings.
Know the security guidelines: Find out in advance about the specific security guidelines of the airport and the airline you are traveling with. These can vary slightly and knowing these rules in advance will help you avoid surprises.
Tip: You can find out more about the regulations for the contents of your suitcase in our hand luggage guide.
How does a security check at the airport work?
A security check is certainly exciting, especially for people traveling by plane for the first time. So that you know exactly what to expect, we will tell you how a security check works:
- Waiting in the queue: At the beginning of the security check, you stand in the queue that leads to the checkpoint. It is important to remain calm and wait patiently until it is your turn. There are often special queues for frequent flyers, families with small children or passengers with special needs.
- Showing your travel documents: Before you go through the actual checkpoint, you will be asked to show your boarding pass and your passport or ID card. A member of staff will check your documents and give you the signal to proceed.
- Preparing your hand baggage: Before you go through the security scanner, you must place your hand baggage on a conveyor belt. Make sure that all liquids are in containers of no more than 100 ml and are in a transparent, resealable bag. Remove electronic devices such as laptops and tablets from your bag and place them in separate containers. Make sure you do not have any prohibited items in your hand baggage.
- Personal check: After you have placed your baggage on the conveyor belt, you will go through the body scanner or metal detector. It is important to remove all metal objects such as coins, belts or jewelry beforehand. Place these in small containers, which will also be scanned.
- Screening of hand baggage: As you go through the scanner, your hand baggage will be screened by an X-ray machine. Security staff will check the images on the monitor to ensure that no prohibited items are present. Sometimes a piece of baggage is selected for closer inspection, which may take additional time.
- Additional check: If the body scanner or metal detector sounds an alarm, you will be asked to step aside. A security employee will then carry out a manual check by scanning you. This is done either by pat-down or with a hand scanner.
- Reclaiming your hand baggage: After the check, take your hand baggage and personal belongings back to you. Make sure that you have not forgotten anything and check that all containers and bags are closed.
- Completing the security check: After you have packed up your things again, you can leave the security check and head to your departure gate. Allow enough time to go through the entire process stress-free.
With these steps, you should be well prepared for the security check at the airport. You can find more tips for your first flight in our blog article - so your first experience should be as stress-free as possible. We wish you a good flight!
