You’ve likely heard of the recent TikTok trend “airport theory,” testing arrival times by trying to limit how much time is spent at the airport. Individuals will look to arrive at the airport just 15-20 minutes before their departure, hoping to make it through security and to their gate just in time for boarding. 

The general recommendation is to arrive at the airport two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before departure for international flights. However, these are just ballpark figures. This guideline looks to prevent people missing their flights, whether it be from traffic or long lines at the airport. 

Your ideal arrival time depends on several factors, including security wait times, whether you need to check bags, and if you have an airport fast pass. 

And while we don’t recommend testing “airport theory”, there are a few tips you can follow for how to get through airport security faster. 

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How to Get Through Airport Security Faster

1. Travel Faster With CLEAR+

Traveling during peak times? Airport security lines can be unpredictable, adding unnecessary stress to your journey. CLEAR+ speeds up the process using your face, eyes, or fingers to verify you are you, so you can head straight to the front of the airport security.

Even better, kids under 18 can join you in the CLEAR+ Lane for free, making it a great option for families. If you fly frequently from bustling airports, CLEAR+ ensures a faster start to your trip. 

While testing “airport theory,” The Points Guy, Brian Kelly, used his CLEAR+ Membership to ensure he didn’t miss his flight. He noted that CLEAR, “saved me three to five minutes.” However, even the person known for maximizing travel says “airport theory” isn’t a strategy people should rely on.

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2. Check In Online 24 Hours Before Your Flight

Skip the long check-in lines and go digital! Most airlines allow you to check in online 24 hours before departure. Doing this means you can select your seat, download your mobile boarding pass, and head straight to security when you arrive at the airport.

Online check-in also helps you track real-time flight updates, gate changes, and baggage policies—so you can stay up to date.

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3. Ship Luggage in Advance

Overpacker? Traveling with sports gear? You can avoid baggage claim entirely.

Ship luggage with Ship&Play, such as golf clubs or ski equipment, directly to your destination—no more stress hauling oversized bags through the airport. It's ideal for anyone looking to travel lighter and simplify the journey.

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4. Use CLEAR Concierge for Bag and Airport Assistance

If you need help with your bags, CLEAR Concierge provides a helping hand through security.

This is ideal for parents traveling kids, elderly travelers, people with mobility needs, or anyone who prefers a little extra assistance navigating the airport. And it's available to all CLEAR+ Members at select airports and can be booked up to 10 hours before your appointment time.

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Factors That May Require an Earlier Arrival Time

While the standard two-hour domestic and three-hour international rule is a solid guideline, there are times when arriving even earlier is a smart move:

• Peak travel periods: Holidays may require additional travel time and patience. Last year, TSA screened over 3 million passengers in a day twice: the Sunday after Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Independence Day.
• Peak travel days and times: Between 5 a.m. and 3 a.m. are the most popular times to clear security and see the highest volume; 21% of travelers are screened during these three hours. Sundays on average see 23% more travelers screening in airports than Tuesdays.
• Flying from a major hub: LAX, JFK, ATL, ORD—longer security wait times are common.
• Flying from specific airports: Airports like AUS and MIA recommend arriving 2.5 to 3 hours early, even for domestic flights; it is a good idea to check your airport’s or airline’s website for information
• Checking bags or parking a car: Especially if travelling with oversized or international baggage.
• Flying internationally: Extra time needed for customs and immigration, with some international airlines recommending arrival four hours before departure.
• Traveling with kids: Families often need more time for boarding and security.

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Check your airline’s recommendations for your specific route through the airport.

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More Tips for a Stress-Free Airport Experience

Know Your Airport’s Security Wait Times

Not all airports are the same. Some, like Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD), have longer average security wait times, while others can move faster.

Before you leave home, check real-time wait times using the MyTSA app or your airport’s official website. Also, download the CLEAR App to use its Home-to-Gate feature, which tells you when to leave home to reach your gate promptly by analyzing walking times, security wait and traffic data. You can even reserve an Uber ride directly in the app.

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Pack Smart for a Faster Security Check

Packing effectively can expedite your journey through security checkpoints. Follow these tips:

• Keep liquids under 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in a quart-sized bag.
• Wear slip-on shoes to speed through security screening—we recommend socks also!
• Keep electronics in an accessible spot for easy scanning.‍
• Don’t bring prohibited items that will stop you at airport security, such as lighters or pocket knives.

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Use Airport Lounges to Make Wait Time More Comfortable

Have extra time before your flight? Airport lounges offer free food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. Many premium credit cards include complimentary lounge access—a relaxing perk for frequent travelers. Explore The Platinum Card® by American Express which offers both a CLEAR statement credit and lounge access to upgrade your pre-flight experience.

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Consider Alternative Transport Options

If you're traveling to a major airport, parking can be expensive and stressful. Returning rental cars can require an earlier arrival as well. Consider rideshare services, public transportation, or airport shuttles to cut costs. Many hotels also offer complimentary airport transfers, which can save time and money. 

Some credit cards offer perks like rideshare discounts or airport parking credits—check your benefits before booking transportation.

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What to Do If You’re Running Late

Despite your best planning, unexpected delays can happen. If you're running late to the airport, here’s what to do:

1. Check real-time traffic updates before you leave home to avoid congestion.
2. Use mobile check-in to save time at the counter.
3. Head straight to the CLEAR+ Lane if you’re a Member—this saves precious minutes at security.
4. Inform airline staff if you’re close to missing your flight—they may be able to assist with expedited security.‍
5. Know your airport’s layout so you can move efficiently from security to your gate.

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Final Thoughts: When Should You Arrive at the Airport?

To ensure a smooth airport experience, follow these best practices:

• Join CLEAR+ to speed up the airport security process.
• Ship your luggage ahead to skip the bag check.
• Check in online 24 hours before your flight.
• Pack smart to speed up security screening.
• Check security wait times before you leave.
• Know what to do if you're running late to avoid missing your flight.
• Arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights.

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With the right planning and travel tools, you're guaranteed to skip the stress at the airport.