That’s what you have to be if you don’t want to unpack your briefcase …. And everything else.
We have all been through that rigmarole. Before you even enter security you start getting ready by taking off your belt and fiddling in pockets. Then you get up to the counter and haul out your basin and start filling it with all your junk. That is cell phone, laptop, keys, shoes, false teeth (no I am joking!) but it feels like that. Then you go through the X-Ray. Try not to wear jeans with funny studs or zips on the side otherwise you will have to be manually scanned. That nice lady (if you are a female) will wave her magic wand all over you and voila! You will turn into a beautiful Princess! Just like that.
Wow that was quick
Now you can become a Verified Traveller.
The new Verified Traveller program will replace the current Trusted Traveller program, and will provide eligible travellers with benefits at security screening checkpoints including keeping laptops, large electronics and compliant liquids and gels in their carry-on, and keeping their shoes, belt and light jacket on.
But this program is only for “eligible travellers” – which is defined as:
- Members of NEXUS and Global Entry;
- Active members of the Canadian Armed Forces and US military, including reservists, with valid ID;
- Canadian aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards;
- International aircrew (in uniform) with valid airline ID; and
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organizations.
So if you are just an Ordinary Joe you still have to apply for Nexus.
So it’s a good idea to get a Nexus card. Then next time you go to the airport you can breeze through the lines without removing your shoes, your belt, your laptop, your phone, your liquids (as long as they are compliant). So you still can’t take a full bottle of water – or else….
