Tips for Navigating the TSA Checkpoint

Going through the TSA checkpoint at the airport can be stressful. You must deal with long lines, taking off your shoes, listening to other passengers complain, and so on. But you can have a better experience if you know how to navigate the TSA checkpoint. Here are some tips to help you get through quickly and keep your sanity.

 

As someone lucky enough to be randomly checked at least 7 times in the past 10 years for the only reason of bad luck. I expect to get searched now and then celebrate when I didn't afterward. It doesn't matter what you wear, look like, or any outside factors, it can just come down to simply bad luck.  If you get stopped, it's not a scary situation. It may delay you to your gate by a few minutes, but if you plan with enough time, it should be a fairly simple process. Normally, the random checks are normally just a hand swab or a few-minute extra check.

 

These tips are meant to help you simplify your trip through TSA and help you prepare so you don't feel stressed through the process. And if you get chosen, it's only for bad luck like me, and it only takes a few extra minutes to get to your flight.

 

1)Plan Enough Time

If you're traveling, expect long security lines, especially during the holidays. This is when TSA agents are at their busiest, so be patient and be prepared to move quickly. It can be stressful when they are trying to get people through quickly, so the lines don't back up. Try planning at least 30 minutes to get through security, just in case something happens.

2) Have your ticket and State ID/ Passport Ready

When you arrive at the airport, go to the kiosk to get your ticket. Have your ticket, state ID, or passport prepared for the TSA officer to verify your identity.

 

Note: U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires passengers 18 years of age and older to have a REAL ID to travel after May 7th, 2025.

3) Listen and Follow the TSA Officer’s Instructions

Keep your ears open and listen to the TSA Officer's instructions. Following the instructions will help keep you moving through the security checkpoint. A TSA officer can pull you out of line to do a personal security check, while it could take you longer to go through airport security.

4) Get in Line Behind an Expert Traveler

When you are in line, follow someone who looks like they are an expert traveler. You can identify that person because they start taking out their laptop or tablet from their bag and taking off their shoes, belt, or watch before arriving at the bins. Follow their lead and place your items in the bin.

5) Know the 3-1-1 Liquid Rule

Knowing what liquids and containers you can bring in a carry-on will save you time and money. TSA Officers will confiscate liquids that aren’t in the allowed container and bag. Remember to keep liquids in bottles that are no more than 3.4 oz. and carried in a 1-quart clear bag. Passengers are only allowed to bring one bag on the plane.

6) Wear Easy-To-Remove Shoes at the TSA Checkpoint

All travelers must remove their shoes to go through the x-ray machines. Wear footwear that can easily be removed, like sandals, loafers, flip-flops, or slip-on sneakers. Putting your shoes back on when you’re done going through TSA will be a breeze.

7) Don't Wear or Keep a Lot of Metal on You

Only wear the essentials when it comes to jewelry and accessories. The more you have, the more you will have to take off before going through the metal detector. Keep it basic - only wear wedding rings and watches. Limit what you carry in your pocket to your car and house keys.

 

Try to get rid of your coins before going to the airport so you don't have to fumble around pulling them out of your pocket.

 

If you have had a past surgery that placed metal in your body, make sure to mention it to the TSA agent to let them know where it's located and that the machine will go off. Please expect to be pulled aside for an additional pat down or metal detector wand for them to confirm.

8) Pack Your Bag Accordingly

When packing your carry-on, only bring the essentials. Put your extra pair of shoes at the bottom and layer your clothes. Place your 1-quart clear bag with liquids and any electronics on the top layer to gain easy access to place it in the bin at the security checkpoint. You can also do this by having a separate bag dedicated to things you will need to get out for the security check. 

 

If you're bringing food that you packed yourself and isn't prepackaged, plan for them to pull that as well.

9) Don't wrap your gifts

Whether it's the holidays or going out of town for a special occasion, don't wrap gifts until you arrive at your destination. TSA will unwrap gifts they deem suspicious.

 

Keeping them unwrapped will allow officers to go through the contents quickly, plus all that work you put into wrapping the gift won't be wasted.

10) Wait for your items at the end

After you have gone through the detector, wait at the end of the conveyor belt for your items. After you have the bins, you can start putting on your easy-to-slip-on shoes, belt, and jewelry. Put any items back in your pockets or bag, and don't forget your boarding pass.

 

What if I accidentally forget something in my bag that is prohibited?

If you leave something in your bag that goes against TSA guidelines, they will either take it or throw it out. This also applies to your checked bag; if they find something in your bag, they will let your airline know, and then they will decide if the item goes against their policies as well.

 

Going through the TSA security checkpoint can be stressful and challenging, but it does serve to protect you and fellow flyers. Preplanning and acting on these tips will relieve stress and save you time. Let PreFlight help you make your trip more enjoyable when you park at one of our airport parking facilities.