Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but one of the least enjoyable aspects can be spending time waiting in long security lines at the airport. With technology rapidly advancing, there are increasingly more available solutions to help streamline your airport experience. To help you save time and minimize stress on your next trip, we have narrowed down the top three travel apps that you should download before your next flight.

1. MyTSA App

The first app on our list is MyTSA, a free app developed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) itself. Available for both iOS and Android devices, the MyTSA app provides real-time updates on airport wait times and security line lengths so that you can plan your arrival accordingly.

In addition to wait times, MyTSA features a comprehensive list of prohibited items you should avoid bringing in your carry-on luggage. The app also provides the opportunity to sign up for TSA PreCheck and offers tips for making your airport experience smoother and more efficient.

2. Mobile Passport

A must-have for international travelers, the Mobile Passport app enables users to skip the customs lines when re-entering the United States after traveling abroad. This app is officially authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and allows U.S citizens and Canadian visitors to submit their passport information and customs declaration form through their phone.

While it is not a direct substitute for a physical passport or Global Entry membership, Mobile Passport is accepted at over 30 major U.S airports. You simply need to scan your passport details, answer the standard customs questions, and snap a picture – then you’ll receive a digital bar-coded receipt that you show to a CBP agent upon arrival.

3. CLEAR

If shorter security lines sound appealing to you, consider downloading and signing up for CLEAR – a private service that uses biometric scanning to verify your identity. After signing up, you can use CLEAR lanes at participating airports to bypass the standard security line.

CLEAR uses fingerprint and iris scans to confirm identity without requiring any physical identification. Travelers enrolled in both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck can expect even shorter wait times as they don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets during the security process.

In conclusion, these three travel apps – MyTSA, Mobile Passport, and CLEAR – are great tools to help you save time and de-stress during your next journey. Be sure to download them before your next flight to make the most of advanced technology, whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler. Safe travels!