Top 5 time-saving tips to blaze through the airport like a pro

Last updated on 5th January, 2024 at 12:07 pm

Travelling internationally on holiday should be leisurely; however, getting prepared and navigating airports can be stressful. Fortunately, there are ways to ease this process so you can plop into your airplane seat, put your head back and exhale – knowing your holiday has begun.

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In this article you’ll learn: 

• The best way to get through airport security without delays.
• The smart way to pack your suitcase.
• Which apps and online sites will save you time at the airport.

1. Make use of the SARS online Traveller Declaration System

Once you’ve booked your flight, you can use the South African Revenue Service’s (SARS) new online traveller declaration system to declare goods from the comfort of your home. You’ll get a confirmation email after you’ve completed the declaration with instructions on what to do when you get to the airport. “This will reduce your queuing time at customs,” says the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).

2. Download a virtual eSIM card 

Travel blogger Lauren Melnick of the Wanderlust Movement uses an app called Airlo. “It’s a virtual eSIM card, which means you don’t need to buy a SIM card when you arrive. You can set up everything before you leave South Africa and have a working local SIM card as soon as you land.”

3. Pack wisely 

Because each airline differs, ACSA says you should check the travel requirement information on your respective airline’s website. Make sure you understand the weight restrictions, the items you’re allowed in carry-on luggage, and that all your documents are ready. Carry liquids in 100ml bottles in a clear plastic bag (maximum 1 litre capacity) to avoid delays at the security checkpoints.

It’s also a good idea to attach stickers or a piece of ribbon to your suitcase to help you quickly identify your bag on the luggage conveyer belt.

Melnick recommends taking carry-on luggage that has a laptop sleeve on the outside. “It will be quicker to remove at the security checkpoint because you won’t have to dig through your bag.” She also suggests not wearing boots. “Most airports make you take them off – instead, wear shoes you can slip on and off easily. If you’re going to wear belts or jewellery, keep these in your bag and put them on after you’ve passed through security.”

4. Check in online or via an automated kiosk 

Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before a flight departs. You can check in on your respective airline’s website or app and get your boarding pass emailed to you, or download it to your phone. “If you’re only flying with hand luggage, save your boarding pass on your phone so you can go straight to security instead of going to the counters or self-service machines,” says Melnick. Use the (usually) shorter queue at the baggage drop-off counter if you have luggage that needs to be checked in.

You can use an automated kiosk at the airport to check in, weigh your luggage and print your luggage tag when returning home from airports such as Changi (Singapore), Heathrow (UK), Charles de Gaulle (France) and Dubai (UAE). This is only available at certain terminals and on certain airlines, so make sure you check the airline’s website to confirm.

5. Pay for airport parking online 

You can pay for your airport parking via the ACSA app. “This cuts out the time you’d spend queuing at the pay office or station,” ACSA explains. The app also allows you to pre-book parking at OR Tambo International, which you can do before leaving for the airport. (This facility will be available at other airports, such as Cape Town International and King Shaka International, soon.)