4 Tips to Get Through TSA Quickly This Thanksgiving

The Transportation Security Administration expects more than 2.4 million passengers per day to pass through their checkpoints nationwide as people travel in the days leading up to Thanksgiving.

• By Jessica Davis
• Nov 21, 2017

The Transportation Security Administration expects more than 2.4 million passengers per day to pass through their checkpoints nationwide as people travel in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. The TSA’s security screening process can feel arduous, but for those without TSA Pre-Check, passenger preparedness can help the line move faster. Here are four tips to help make your TSA screening process go quickly when traveling over the river (and over the woods) to Grandma’s house.

• Get to the airport early. The higher volume of traffic during the holiday season means longer lines everywhere in the airport. TSA recommends travelers arrive two hours early for a domestic flight and three hours early for an international flight. This helps ensure time to handle personal or rental cars, check bags, get boarding passes and do any other chore before heading to the security checkpoint.
• Use your time wisely while waiting in the checkpoint line. Empty your pockets and put those items into your carry-on bag so they’re more accessible when it comes time to put your belongings into bins for the scanning process. You should also get out your boarding pass and acceptable form of ID and have them in hand to present at the podium.
• Check guidelines before you pack. Review the TSA prohibited items list before you pack your carry-on and checked baggage. If you’ve checked the guidelines and you’re still not sure, you can ask the TSA directly on social media by using either Twitter (@AskTSA) or Facebook Messenger (fb.com/askTSA) to send them the name and/or photo of the item. Their teams will let you know whether they should be packed in a carry-on bag, a checked bag, both or neither.
• Be prepared for any special accommodations you may need. If you or someone you’re traveling with may require special accommodations related to disabilities and/or medical conditions, it’s a good idea to know what that entails. You can call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours prior before flying with any questions about screening policies and procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint as well as arrange for assistance at the checkpoint.