But rather than waste valuable Duty Free shopping time in a queue, one user called Imnottheman revealed that some airports have more than one way through security.
He said: "At some big airports, the different terminals are connected on both sides of security.
"If the security line is hours long, consider going to the one at a nearby terminal and then coming back through after."
Meanwhile, once you are in the queue for security, it helps to be prepared for incidents that could cause problems with the guards.
One user called GhostalMediasaid: "I used to design security checkpoints and my CT scanners always had problems with chocolate."
The continued: "It could have a similar density to certain explosives and could trigger a bag check. I don't know if that impacts other manufacturers, but I don't pack it."
There are several tips that make passing through airport security less stressful. Photo / iStock
Another regular traveller revealed that some careful planning with clothing can make the passage through the scanner area all pass seamlessly.
Captain_Taggart said: "I like to wear slip-on shoes so I don't have to tie/untie them, and I always completely empty my pockets and put everything in my bag.
"After one too many experiences of having to empty my pockets to get through -it's no problem if I've got nothing on me."
Even passengers carrying contraband needn't feel like it's the end of the world according to Reddit users.
For instance, once user advised that anyone who discovers they have forgotten to leave items like their favourite penknife at home simply needs to drop it off at Lost And Found to pick up on their return journey.
While another advised that thirsty travellers should empty their water bottles of liquid and refill them in a water fountain on the other side.
Once through security, there are also clever knacks for making the wait until a flight more comfortable.
One user called Smfavia revealed they kept an eye on cabin crew to work out where the best restaurants were, saying: "If I'm not sure where to eat, I look for flight crews and airport employees, they usually know the best food."
Another user called Salt-Pile revealed they did their homework on the airport before checking in to a flight to find out about any hidden extras available.
They said: "Familiarise yourself with the airport layouts before you fly.
"You save heaps of time and if you're on long haul it's good to know in advance if an airport has luxurious things like free showers and where they are."
