7 tips to help you get through the airport faster

Traveling can be exciting, and we know the anticipation of wanting to get out of the airport as soon as possible so that you can start exploring. But, things don’t always go your way - and long lines and waiting times at the airport can get really annoying. However, with some strategic planning and a few insider tips, you can expedite your exit from the airport and start enjoying your trip sooner.

1. Choose the Right Flight Time

It is likely that you will be spending most of your time in the airport queuing to clear immigration and waiting for your baggage.

The time spent at queuing for immigration and waiting for baggage could exponentially increase during peak hours, where there are many flights landing at the same time. At immigration, you will be in-line with passengers from many other flights; and with limited resources, it will likely take a longer time for your baggage to be transported from the aircraft to the baggage belt.

You can avoid these queues by opting for flights that arrive during off-peak hours — though it should be noted that these flights do not always have the best timings. You can check the flight arrival timings at your destination airport to help you decide an off-peak timing, but generally, early morning or late-night arrivals generally mean fewer crowds.

2. Travel Light

Packing light and traveling with only a carry-on can save you significant time at the airport. Pack only the essentials and what you need for the flight. With only a carry-on, you can bypass the baggage claim entirely. Make sure your carry-on meets the airline's size and weight requirements to avoid any last-minute issues at the gate.

Make sure to also double check that you have only packed items that can be brought on board; otherwise, you might be asked to dispose of your items when clearing airport security.

3. Strategize Your Seating

Choose a seat near the front of the plane if possible. Passengers seated in the front rows can deplane more quickly, giving you a head start towards customs, immigration, or your next connection.

Today, many airlines require that you pay an extra fee or buy a ticket with a higher fare class to select your seats. But, being able to choose your seats comes with added benefits. Aside from being able to deplane more quickly, passengers in the front rows also run a much lower risk that your choice of meals will run out.

If you also have a preference for the window seat or the aisle seat, choosing your own seat will guarantee that you get a preferred seat and probably better comfort for your flight.

4. Submit your entry documents ahead of time

Some countries require you to submit a health declaration or immigration forms upon entry. Some of these documents would need to be submitted online - especially for destinations where e-Gates are implemented.

For example, an entry to Singapore will require you to submit your SG-Arrival Card online. Check the entry requirements of your destination, and submit the information in advance for a smooth immigration clearance process.

Similarly, for destinations which allow you to submit your customs declaration online, consider doing so as that would save you the time of having to fill it out at the airports.

5. Enroll in Trusted Traveler Programs or eGate Clearance

Some destinations also provide programs that can help to expedite your security clearance process.

Programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR can save you a lot of time. TSA PreCheck offers expedited security screening at U.S. airports, Global Entry provides faster U.S. customs screening for international travelers, and CLEAR allows you to speed through security lines with biometric identification.

6. Use Priority Lanes or Fast Track Clearance

If you’re flying first or business class, or if you have elite status with your airline, you may have access to priority lanes for check-in, security, and boarding. Make sure to take advantage of these perks to save time.

If you are traveling to Kuala Lumpur or major destinations in Vietnam, there are also services that offer you a ‘Fast Track Clearance’. If you are flying into KLIA, there is the option of purchasing a fast-track clearance service from Klook. Similar services are also available for major airports in Vietnam like in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh.

7. Get a travel eSIM for your trip

A reason you might be spending more time than necessary at the airport is because you are trying to get a local SIM card to help you stay connected during your trip.

With travel eSIMs, you no longer have to spend time queuing at the booths at the airport to get a local SIM card. As long as you have an eSIM-compatible device, you can purchase your travel eSIM and add the eSIM to your phone ahead of your trip. The eSIM will get activated automatically when it first connects to the local network upon arrival at your destination.

What that means is that you can expect to get connected to the internet the moment you arrive at your destination. No more queuing at the airport booths to get a local SIM card, and no more fiddling with your SIM tray!

Get a Nomad eSIM to stay connected hassle-free when traveling

Nomad offers data plans in over 170 countries, and you can be sure to find one that is suitable for your travel needs. And if you will be traveling across multiple countries, there are also regional plans available so you can stay seamlessly connected as you hop between countries. Data plans are available from as low as $1.10/GB.

The networks that Nomad's eSIMs use for each plan are stated on the plan details on the web store and apps, so you can check which networks are supported before buying your plan. Data sharing and tethering is also supported on Nomad's eSIM plans.

If you share your Nomad referral code with your friends, your friend will be able to enjoy $7 off their first purchase (only applicable for plans $10 and more). You will also be able to enjoy $7 off your next purchase (only applicable for plans $10 and more).