Latest news with #TransportationSecurityAdministration
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
5 ways to make a TSA officer hate you — and how to avoid it
Ever feel like a TSA officer has it out for you? You're not alone. The Transportation Security Administration screens millions of passengers daily. If you've never worked security at an airport, you probably can't imagine what it's like repeating the same instructions every few seconds, only to be ignored half the time. So, yes, some officers may seem short with you, but often, it's less about rudeness and more about exhaustion. TSA Officers don't actually hate you. But the truth is, they might be extremely annoyed with you—and for good reason. Still, knowing what grinds their gears can help you breeze through security faster and with fewer hiccups. Here's your unofficial guide to not being that traveler. You're late. Your gate is boarding. And you're contemplating begging a TSA officer to let you cut the line. Let me stop you right there. It's not going to work. If TSA made exceptions for every late passenger, there'd be chaos. Officers follow protocol to maintain fairness and order. But here's a Gate Access Tip: build rapport. When I was a TSO, frequent flyers who took the time to say hello, ask how I was doing, or follow up on previous conversations occasionally got waved through during slower moments. So instead of pushing your luck with entitlement, try kindness and consistency. You might be surprised how far it gets you. Trying to speed things up by handing over your family's entire batch of boarding passes? Don't. Each passenger is expected to present their own ID and boarding pass. This ensures accuracy, particularly in the age of facial recognition technology. It also reduces confusion and keeps lines moving smoothly. Gate Access Tip: If you're unsure, just ask: 'Would you prefer we go one-by-one?' Officers appreciate the courtesy, and it helps keep you from being added to their already long list of annoying travelers. You know that moment when the officer asks, 'Anything in your pockets?' and you say no, but the body scanner flags you anyway? Chances are, you left a crumpled tissue or receipt in there. And guess what? That 'harmless' tissue just made your screening process 10 minutes longer. Body scanners are extremely sensitive, designed to detect even the smallest objects. When you set off an alarm, it creates extra work and may trigger a pat-down. And no, saying 'It's just paper' won't help your case. Gate Access Tip: Before you get in line, do a full pocket sweep—not just for metal, but for paper, gum, and even ChapStick. If you didn't know, you can keep Chapstick in your hand. All you have to do is open the top so the TSA officer can take a quick look inside the tube. When your bag gets pulled aside, hands off. Seriously. That 'restricted side' of the conveyor belt isn't just a holding area—it's a controlled inspection zone. TSA officers are trained to inspect bags in a specific order, and interfering, even just to grab your shoes, can be seen as a security breach. Gate Access Tip: Want to avoid being barefoot for 10 minutes? Send your shoes through in a separate bin. That way, if your bag is flagged, you can still grab your shoes and at least stand comfortably while you wait. Choosing a pat-down over the full-body scanner is 100% within your rights. You have the legal authority to opt out of the scanner for any reason, whether for religious beliefs, health concerns, or personal discomfort. That said, TSA officers dread this option. Why? Because it requires stopping what they're doing, calling for a same-gender officer, and going through a time-consuming physical screening process. If you choose this route, pack your patience. It may take longer, especially during peak travel times when staff are stretched thin. But don't let officer frustration deter you because it's your right, and you should feel comfortable exercising it. TSA officers aren't trying to ruin your vacation; they're actually there to make sure you make it to your vacation safely. They're doing a high-stress job, often under tight time constraints. By avoiding these common missteps, you'll not only make their day a little easier, but you'll also make your own journey smoother. So next time you're at your home airport and navigating through the TSA checkpoint, try to stand out and be known as non-problematic, especially if you're a frequent flyer. It might not get you upgraded to first class, but it could save you some serious hassle.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Why you never want to see SSSS on your boarding pass before a flight
Plus, the little-known discounts your boarding pass can get you on holiday which save you hundreds of pounds TAKE OFF Why you never want to see SSSS on your boarding pass before a flight ONE traveller has revealed a code on boarding passes that you will want to avoid at all costs. Chloe Jade Meltzer, 30, has shared that some boarding passes have an 'SSSS' code on that actually mean you have been selected for additional security checks. Advertisement 4 A traveller has revealed a code on boarding passes that you will want to avoid at all costs Credit: SWNS 4 Travel blogger Chloe shared how the 'SSSS' stamp on a boarding pass means you will get extra checks Credit: SWNS Chloe has been travelling the world since 2015, racking up a total of 162 countries visited. Out of the hundreds of times she has travelled, she is lucky enough to only have had 'SSSS' on her boarding pass six times. The four letters stand for 'secondary security screening selection' and mean that a passenger has been flagged for an additional security check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before boarding their flight. In practice, this means that the selected passenger will have to have more pat-downs, hand swabs and thorough luggage checks before boarding their flight. Advertisement Chloe said one of the most common signs a traveller will have 'SSSS' appear on their boarding pass, is if they don't get it handed to them immediately. The New York-based travel blogger said: "I have gotten 'SSSS' on my boarding pass periodically over the years. "When I get one, I will just try get the checks out of the way and head straight to the boarding gate to be screened again by airline staff. "Usually, how long it takes depends on how fast you get to the boarding gate, how your bags are packed and how fast they are at searching." Advertisement She added that if you are one of the unfortunate ones who gets flagged, then you will be pulled aside at the gate before you board your flight. You will then most likely be given a pat down or a detailed search of your luggage. TSA Rolls Out New CAT-2 Tech: What Flyers Need to Know Before the Real ID Deadline Some passengers might even be tested for explosives. Chloe added: "You also might be asked a few extra question like where you're going and how long you're staying there. Advertisement "It can feel very targeted but usually this will be going on for a few other people as well or sometimes half the plane. "I personally don't like this because it takes longer, you can't do this before boarding, they do it exactly at boarding." There are many reasons why a traveller may get the code on their boarding pass, but Chloe shared that one reason is because of the countries you may have travelled to. Some countries are flagged and indicate potential issues or alerts, for example, if you only purchased a one-way ticket. Advertisement The blogger added that it is important to not panic when you get the code on your boarding pass though, as it is issued randomly. 4 Some countries you many have travelled to, get flagged and indicate potential issues or alerts Credit: SWNS "They say it is randomly selected, sometimes it's because you have travelled to certain countries that are flagged, or because you bought a one-way ticket," she shared. "Sometimes you might be on a watch list because you name is similar to one that they have flagged, or you have two different passports, you have passport irregularities. Advertisement "If you get the dreaded 'SSSS' don't worry, it doesn't mean you're in trouble because it is random. "Just deal with it, be ready to board early and get it done." There is also a major change for travellers as boarding passes and check-in to be scrapped in new airport rules. Plus, the little-known discounts your boarding pass can get you on holiday which save you hundreds of pounds. Advertisement
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
The TSA limits these snacks in carry-on bags
If you're traveling by air this summer, you're probably wondering what you can pack. Traveling means you'll probably need a lot of snacks to stay energized and hydrated, and you'd rather pack your own food than spend money on expensive airport food. Here are a couple of snacks that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) restricts in carry-on bags. Carry-on bags are subject to a TSA rule that limits liquids, gels and aerosols to travel containers of 3.4 ounces or less. The 3.4 ounce rule in carry-on bags applies to all items, including food. According to Yahoo Life, the restricted snacks include: Spreadable and scoopable snacks (ex. hummus and peanut butter) Yogurt Pudding Soft cheeses (Brie and Camembert) Honey Salsa This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Flying with food in your carry-on? The TSA restricts these snacks
CNET
4 days ago
- CNET
Carry-On Luggage: What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind) for Stress-Free Travel
Summer has officially arrived, delivering scorching temperatures and vacation season for millions of Americans. If you've got a trip planned, it's best to prepare early to ensure that you can relax while traveling, instead of stressing about every detail. Part of that preparation includes finding the carry-on that suits your needs, and knowing how to pack it properly. A carry-on bag ensures you have your entertainment and snacks during the flight and all the essentials at your destination, even if your checked luggage gets lost. Items like passports, prescriptions, electronics, toiletries, cash and clothes are must-haves when it comes to carry-ons. (Believe me, packing extra clothes in mine saved me when my checked bag was lost on the way to London.) Following Transportation Security Administration guidelines for each major US airline is also a must. Doing a little research on the latest rules and regulations can help you ace the experience without getting held up. You can't control what TSA officials confiscate, but you can control what you pack and how you pack it. Here's how to pack your carry-on bag efficiently for any flight, so you can breeze through TSA security lines. For more travel tips, explore these travel essentials you need for every vacation and then take a look at this travel checklist. You should also read about the new Real ID requirement to get through airport security. The best carry-on travel bags Before you start packing, you'll have to find the right carry-on bag. Here are a few important things to keep in mind. What size carry-on should you get? The first and most important aspect to think about is size. Federal Aviation Administration regulations say carry-on items can't exceed dimensions of 22 by 14 by 9 inches, though you might find an inch or two of difference depending on the airline. The general rule is that it must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane. Here's a quick reference for size limits for the most popular US airlines. Carry-on items by airline Airline Cabin Maximum size Air Canada All 55 x 40 x 23 cm; 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 in Alaska Airlines All 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in American Airlines All 56 x 36 x 23 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in British Airways All 56 x 45 x 25 cm; 22 x 18 x 10 in Delta Air Lines All 56 x 35 x 23 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in Frontier Airlines All 60.96 x 40.64 x 25.4 cm; 24 x 16 x 10 in Hawaiian Airlines All 55.9 x 35.5 x 22.9 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in JetBlue Airways All 55.88 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in Southwest Airlines All 60.9 x 40.6 x 25.4 cm; 24 x 16 x 10 in Spirit Airlines All 56 x 46 x 25 cm; 22 x 18 x 10 in United Airlines All 56 x 35 x 22 cm; 22 x 14 x 9 in Carry-ons should have an easy access tech compartment If you decide to bring electronics like a laptop, iPad, Kindle or other tablet on board, your carry-on should ideally have a separate, padded compartment for secure packing. Be sure these compartments are easily accessible, since at security checkpoints, the TSA will require you to remove your electronic devices and place them in the plastic X-ray tray. Make sure your carry-on is comfortable on your back or shoulder Remember, you'll need to lug your carry-on bag or suitcase across the airport and down long corridors, and you might even need to run with it so you don't miss your connection. Consider whether you need padded handles or cushioned straps or a backpack or a rolling suitcase for ease. The general rule is that all carry-ons must fit under your seat or in the overhead enclosed storage compartment on the plane. Getty Images How to pack your carry-on the right way Though what to pack in your carry-on ultimately depends on your preferences, there are a few guidelines for the best way to pack your luggage: Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.). Pack the things you'll use the least at the bottom of the bag. Keep most of your valuables in your carry-on luggage, and store them in side compartments or safely padded around other items. Place valuables at the bottom of your bag, away from the opening. Keep your wallet, credit cards and cash in an inner pocket so they'll be harder to steal. Pack a small, separate bag for toiletries. (Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule: 3.4 ounces or less per container; all liquids must fit in one quart size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; one bag per passenger.) Roll your clothes tightly to save space in your luggage. Sometimes you lose your luggage. It happens. Though it's frustrating, it's important to pack a spare set of clothes (including socks and underwear!) in your carry-on to hold you over until your bags are found and returned. Pack clothing that can easily be rolled up and put in the bottom of your bag. Rolled clothing can save space in your tight bag or suitcase. Getty Images Essential items for your carry-on bag There's some items that are just better in your carry-on luggage. If you do decide to check a bag, be sure to keep these items with you on the flight. Most of these carry-on essentials are items that would be hard to replace or purchase when you get to your destination. Prescriptions and medications Contact lenses or glasses Valuables like jewelry, wallets, passports, IDs and boarding passes Cameras and smartphones Entertainment like tablets, books and laptops Headphones to watch TV or movies if a longer flight Chargers for electronics Printed itinerary, or hotel and flight confirmations Explore this complete guide for essential travel items you may forget to pack. Place your larger electronics in secure yet easily accessible compartments, since you'll need to pull them out at TSA security checkpoints. Getty Images What you should never pack in your carry-on bag The TSA has specific guidelines covering which items are banned from flights, and the agency takes those rules very seriously. In 2023 alone, the TSA screened more than 858 million passengers and crew members nationwide, and it confiscated a record number of firearms (6,737) and many other items. TSA policy says that individuals carrying weapons, especially loaded firearms, can face fines or criminal penalties. These are some of the most commonly confiscated items: Firearms Fireworks Box cutters, utility knives and razors Bats, clubs and blades Swiss Army knives Sharp If in doubt, always refer to the TSA's guidelines on packing for flights, to ensure you have safe and easy travels. If you're planning a vacation soon and are stressed about packing or preparing, CNET has plenty of resources to help. Get ready for your next trip with these hacks and tips:
Fox News
4 days ago
- Fox News
July 4th travel surge expected as TSA announces record-breaking screening from past weekend
With summer travel in full swing and July 4th just up ahead, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced another record-breaking day of flying already achieved. Agents screened nearly 3.1 million travelers this past Sunday, marking the busiest day nationwide in TSA's history, according to a press release. Sunday, June 22, also set a record at Chicago O'Hare International Airport for the most people screened on a single day. The TSA screened some 114,000 individuals that day, it said. "On our busiest days, our officers remain laser-focused on delivering a safe and efficient screening experience to all passengers traveling through our airports," said Jim Spriggs, federal security director for TSA Illinois. Spriggs added, "We appreciate those who arrive at the checkpoint prepared with REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID, and with no prohibited items in their carry-on bags." The announcement comes as TSA has released its prediction for Fourth of July travel, expecting over 18.5 million Americans to take to the skies on Independence Day. TSA's prediction includes the Tuesday leading up to the holiday and the Monday following it. It is expected that the highest travel volume will be on Sunday with 2.9 flyers. "With high travel volumes expected to continue this summer and into the holiday travel seasons, travelers should arrive at the airport in plenty of time to park or return a rental car, check bags, and complete security screening before making their way to their gate," TSA reminded passengers in the press release. AAA released its "Independence Day Travel Forecast" report, finding that 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home this July 4th. Of the millions predicted to travel, 8% or 5.84 million Americans will be flying to their destinations.
