The little-known hack to beat security queues at airports revealed

| Live News Reporter Published July 19, 2026 1:56pm Updated July 19, 2026 1:56pm Jetting off this summer? This trick could save you time in the security queue (Picture: Getty) As thousands pack their bags to head on holiday, Manchester Airport has shared a few tips on how to get through security with ease. This past June was Manchester Airport’s busiest on record, having welcomed more than 3,000,000 passengers. Of those passengers, 92% waited ten minutes or less to walk through security – and it could be thanks to these helpful tips the airport shared. Manchester Airport shared an ingenious hack to avoid lengthy security lines. If passengers are offered a choice of what security lane to go through, they should pick the left, rather than the right. Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. The reason? Most people are right-handed, meaning they subconsciously favour the right side of things. Metro tests the airport hack: does it work? News reporter Sarah Hooper is a big concert goer – and said the hack works at more places than just the airport (Picture: Sarah Hooper) Metro‘s US news reporter Sarah Hooper found the genius hack a few years ago, and it’s helped her avoid lengthy queues in airports, at concerts, and even on tube escalators. ‘I travel as much as I can, and being on time is my number one priority. I’m the type to get to the airport hours early and sit to enjoy a breakfast before takeoff – it clears my mind. ‘A few years ago, I saw the trick that Manchester Airport has recommended – choose the left queues over the right, because most people are right-handed. ‘Honestly? It’s saved me a lot of headaches. We all know what it’s like to be herded like sheep through security, but when given the choice, choosing the left side has saved me a lot of time. ‘I also use it day-to-day, while manoeuvring through busy Tube stations, while leaving concerts and at pubs. Maybe our subconscious is more powerful than we think!’ The airport also said passengers should keep any liquids in a 100ml or less bottle – even with new CT scanners installed for security When in doubt, any liquids should be clearly labelled, and if you have a souvenir like a snowglobe or a squishy toy, put it in as a ‘liquid’. Another unique travel hack to help you have a smooth time at the airport this summer? A charger. If travelling with electronics, make sure they’re fully charged – or they could be confiscated. Airport staff must be able to see devices turned on for safety reasons, and to confirm that they’re not a security risk. Uncharged or broken devices could potentially conceal illicit materials or hidden explosives. If you can’t switch it on, staff can confiscate the device and even deny boarding. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page. Arrow MORE: TUI is about to make a big change to its alcohol policy: ‘How rude!’ Arrow MORE: ‘Summer scramble’ hits UK roads as 14,100,000 drivers head on holiday Arrow MORE: UK launches methanol travel alert after Laos shots killed 28-year-old