Traveling by plane to visit loved ones for Thanksgiving is an annual tradition for millions of Americans.
Celebrating the holidays with your family can be stressful, but nothing compares to the frenzy of an airport security checkpoint.
Travelers are punctual and wait anxiously until they reach the front of the line. Once you arrive, follow the instructions of the TSA officer and make a mad dash to remove your belongings and put them in the trash to avoid backup.
Everyone may have their own frustrating or (unsolicited) advice for flying companions, but let’s find out what the Transportation Security Administration has to say. Here are the biggest airport checkpoint mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Arrived unprepared
One of the most common mistakes is arriving at the airport without the necessary documents. Travelers often forget to have their boarding pass or ID readily available, causing delays for themselves and others in line. The TSA says you should keep these documents easily accessible and not buried in your luggage.
2. Ignoring the 3-1-1 rule
Many passengers overlook the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule regarding liquids. The rule states that liquids must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces, that all containers must fit in one quart-sized bag, and that each passenger is allowed only one such bag. It is stipulated that Failure to follow this rule can result in items having to be thrown away or repacked, slowing everyone down.
3. Items prohibited from packaging
Despite clear guidelines, travelers often pack prohibited items in their carry-on luggage. This includes large liquids, sharp objects, and certain electronic devices. These mistakes can lead to additional reviews and delays. Leave knives and guns at home, and be sure to check the TSA’s list of prohibited items before packing.
4. Wearing inappropriate clothing
What you wear can have a big impact on the speed of the security process. Wearing shoes that are difficult to remove, belts with large buckles, or excessive jewelry may set off alarms and require additional testing. TSA recommends wearing slip-on shoes and using little or no metal accessories for a smooth transition.
5. Misjudgment of arrival time
Underestimating the time required to go through security is a common mistake. Due to increased passenger numbers, especially during peak holiday travel times, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights.
6. Forgetting to empty your pockets
Another common mistake is not emptying your pockets before going through the body scanner. Items such as keys, phones, money clips, and loose change can set off alarms and lead to additional checks.
7. Don’t listen to TSA agents.
According to TSA officials, one of the most frustrating habits of travelers is not listening to instructions. This includes not taking your laptop out of your bag or taking off your shoes or belt. Listening and following the instructions of TSA officers will make the process smoother for everyone.
8. Wait until the last moment
Many travelers wait until the last minute to follow TSA instructions, such as taking things out of their pockets or taking out their laptops. Spend valuable time getting ready from the time you show your ID to the attendant until you get to the conveyor belt.
9. Argument with TSA Officer
Arguing with TSA officers over procedures and policies can cross the line and create unnecessary tension. Stay calm and get your trip off to a good start.
10. Go through the scanner before the kids
Parents passing through the body scanner before their children can pose safety concerns and create additional work for TSA officers. Airports can be chaotic and it’s easy for children to become separated from their parents. Additionally, children may not understand security procedures or may need help removing shoes, jackets, and other items.
11. Don’t invest in TSA PreCheck.
For frequent travelers, not enrolling in TSA PreCheck can be a missed opportunity. TSA PreCheck allows travelers to undergo rapid screening without having to remove shoes, belts or light jackets, and even with laptops and compliant liquids in their bags. This can save you a lot of time and stress.
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