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Since more than two million people are expected to fly daily during the Memorial Day travel period, the Transportation Security Administration last week reminded travelers to prepare and plan ahead for the security screening process.
Passenger preparedness can have a significant impact on wait times at security checkpoints nationwide, according to the TSA. To facilitate the security screening process, the agency is reminding travelers to arrive early to the airport and follow these tips: Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces or less and all bottles must fit in one quart-size plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. This includes sun block and tanning sprays. One of these quart-size bags is permitted per person; use the “Can I bring my…” feature on tsa.gov to check what items are allowed/not allowed in carry–on and checked luggage. Smartphone users can easily download the free “My TSA” app for that feature and to find additional information about TSA policies and procedures; have an acceptable identification and boarding pass out and remove large electronics including laptops and the compliant liquids bag, from carry-on baggage.
TSA Pre✓® is an expedited screening program that allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, keep their laptop in its case and their complaint liquids/gels bag in a carry-on, in select screening lanes. Those eligible for TSA Pre✓® can participate at about 140 airports when traveling on a participating airline. TSA has also opened more than 300 application centers nationwide, allowing more U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents the opportunity to participate in TSA Pre✓®. Interested travelers can pre-enroll at tsa.gov.
Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227 with any questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint 72 hours prior to traveling. Injured service members and veterans including individuals associated with a wounded warrior program may contact TSA Cares to help facilitate the screening process.
Suntan lotion: If your favorite brand of suntan lotion is larger than 3.4 ounces, put it in your checked bag. If you’re only traveling with a carry-on bag, consider purchasing the suntan lotion when you reach your destination to avoid paying a checked-baggage fee.
Bottled water: You can’t bring a bottle of water through the checkpoint, but you can bring an empty bottle through the checkpoint and then fill it up once you’re through security. That will even save you a few bucks.
Footwear: You’ll need to remove your shoes at the checkpoint, so wear footwear that is easy to slip on-off.
Lost & Found: If you think you may have lost one of your belongings at a checkpoint, visit tsa.gov and search under “Lost and Found” for a list of contacts at TSA Lost & Found offices to reclaim your item.
If you are traveling with a laptop or other large electronic items, tape a business card or other identification on it so that if you leave it at a checkpoint, TSA can contact you to make sure you get it back.
For more information, visit tsa.gov or call (866) 289-9673.
By Forum Staff
