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Tips for TSA wait times at BWI Airport

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    Quick insights

    • TSA wait times at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) are often around 15 to 30 minutes.
    • During peak travel periods, wait times at BWI security checkpoints can extend to 45 minutes or more.
    • TSA checkpoints at BWI are generally less crowded between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on most days.

    As a major transportation hub for the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, BWI accommodates millions of passengers annually—many of whom must pass through BWI security checkpoints before boarding their flights.

    Whether you’re heading straight to your gate or planning to enjoy a final Maryland-style crab cake at a BWI eatery, you’ll likely want to clear airport security as quickly and smoothly as possible. Here are some things to know about TSA wait times at BWI, along with a few tips to help expedite your security screening.

    TSA wait times at BWI

    Security wait times at BWI generally range from 15 to 30 minutes. However, during peak travel times, you may experience waits of 45 minutes or longer.

    The BWI airport website provides current TSA wait times for their security checkpoints, and travelers can also monitor current wait times for security screenings through MyTSA and other mobile apps. These apps often offer wait times for both standard and TSA PreCheck® lanes at specific security checkpoints within BWI and other airports.

    It’s possible your wait time will be longer than the listed wait time if there are unexpected increases in passenger volume. According to the airport as of March 2025, BWI security screenings often experience surges in passengers and increased wait times during the following periods:

    • Sunday: 6-8 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.
    • Monday: 5-8 a.m. and 3-6 p.m.
    • Tuesday: 6-8 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.
    • Wednesday: 6-8 a.m. and 4-5 p.m.
    • Thursday: 5-8 a.m. and 3-7 p.m.
    • Friday: 5-8 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.
    • Saturday: 6-8 a.m. and 1-2 p.m.

    Keep in mind that TSA staffing levels, equipment availability and other operational considerations can also affect TSA wait times.

    How early to arrive at BWI

    The BWI website advises travelers to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. You may also check your airline’s website for any specific recommendations regarding arrival times.

    When planning your airport arrival time, you may factor in time for parking, airline check-in, baggage check and any other pre-boarding activities. If you plan to park at the airport, the BWI website provides current information on parking availability, which may help you decide whether it’s faster to park on-site or in an off-airport lot.

    For passengers arriving by rail or parking in the daily, express or long-term lots, BWI offers a shuttle service to the terminal. Shuttles typically run every 10 to 15 minutes. However, BWI notes that shuttle delays can occur, so you may want to factor in extra time for this part of your journey.

    How to expedite BWI TSA security screenings

    Here are a few tips that may expedite your TSA screening process, as well as a few additional suggestions that could potentially shorten the time it takes to get to your gate:

    • Avoid peak travel times: Booking your flight outside of BWI’s peak travel hours could lead to shorter wait times at TSA checkpoints.
    • Enroll in TSA PreCheck: This program is designed to help expedite security screenings. TSA PreCheck members may use designated security lanes at participating airports.  
    • Know TSA restrictions: Familiarizing yourself with TSA screening requirements and leaving restricted carry-on items at home could help you avoid delays. Starting with an empty bag can help prevent you from accidentally bringing a restricted item through security.
    • Dress appropriately: You’ll likely need to remove your shoes, belt and certain jewelry during the security screening, so wearing easily removable accessories may save time.
    • Keep an organized carry-on bag: Cluttered or overstuffed bags may require additional screening time. Organizing your bag and following travel packing tips often helps streamline the process.
    • Check in through the airline app: Many airlines offer online check-in via their website or app. You may also have the option to check your bag through the app, though you’ll still need to drop it off at the airline counter.
    • Use a mobile boarding pass: By using a mobile boarding pass or printing your boarding pass in advance, you can skip printing a paper ticket at the airport.
    • Don’t check any bags: If possible, consider packing all your items in a carry-on bag. This allows you to proceed directly to a security checkpoint, providing that you check-in online.

    In summary

    TSA wait times at BWI tend to range from 15 to 30 minutes. However, during peak travel periods, wait times could be 45 minutes or longer. On most days, BWI travelers can generally clear security more quickly between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

    To expedite your journey to the gate, you may consider traveling at off-peak times, following TSA guidelines, packing an organized carry-on bag, checking in online, using a mobile boarding pass and avoiding checked baggage.

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