Why Moving To A Shorter Queue At The Airport Could Make TSA Suspicious

Going through TSA is always a stressful experience. Between long lines and the annoyingly inconsistent rules, it's probably one of the worst parts of the airport experience. And for the overthinkers among us, we always worry that we're doing something wrong or somehow, inadvertently acting suspicious. It's a high-pressure situation, where it feels like you're being closely watched. But sometimes it's okay to overthink, because some seemingly normal behaviors can actually have TSA keeping an extra close eye on you.

There are obvious behaviors we all know to avoid, but did you know that something as simple as moving to a shorter queue can make TSA keep a closer eye on you? We get why you might want to head to a shorter line — TSA queues can be long and arduous, and if you see one moving slightly quicker, it can be tempting to switch, especially if you're rushing for a flight. But instead of making you seem efficient (or perhaps impatient), moving to another queue might make you appear shifty, nervous, and perhaps even suspicious.

TSA agents are always looking for people acting strangely, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Moving between lines may feel innocent enough, but moving around a lot during security checks could look like you're trying to avoid something. Not to mention, if you inadvertently move from a line with a full-body scanner to a metal detector, it could suggest you're trying to avoid the more advanced security checks.

The practicalities draw attention to you also. When you leave the queue, you have to collect your belongings before awkwardly reinserting yourself into a new line. Going through all this fuss for the sake of a few extra minutes could have a TSA agent wondering why you're so desperate to get to the other side of security. And let's not forget, while a queue may appear shorter, the presence of a big family or stroller could in fact slow things down.

So, next time you're slogging through the security lines, as long as it may take, accept your fate. Queue-hopping likely won't speed things up, and if it lands you with extra security checks, you'll only delay yourself further. And maybe take this as an extra reminder to always arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight. Finally, read these 11 TSA-approved dos and don'ts for going through airport security before you leave home.