Spring break beckons students and families to board flights to vacation destinations across the globe. TSA estimates that approximately 1.7 million passengers will be screened each day at airports across the country during this year’s spring break holiday.

TSA is committed to minimizing wait times at the checkpoint without compromising your security. Passengers can get updates on wait times and other useful information using the MyTSA app.

Although airline security is a national priority, it does not have to be stressful. Navigate through screening quickly and smoothly by familiarizing yourself with TSA’s Travelers Site to learn about permitted or prohibited items for checked and carry-on bags, packing and travel tips, and information for passengers with special needs or traveling with children.

Packing: Your trip begins before you head to the airport. Know the 3-1-1 Rule for carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols through the checkpoint. Items found on TSA’s Prohibited Items list are not permitted on board aircraft.

Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport early to permit time for parking, check-in, and going through security. Recommended arrival times, typically 60 to 90 minutes before departure, vary by airline and day of travel, so check with your airline. Remember that a boarding pass and valid government photo ID are required to enter the checkpoint.

Clothing: Avoid wearing clothing with metal that may alarm the metal detector and stow all metal and valuable items in your carry-on. Many airports have Advanced Imaging Technology in place. Before going through this technology, remove ALL items from pockets and certain accessories, including wallet, belt, bulky jewelry, money, keys, and cell phone. Removing all of these items will reduce the chances of needing additional screening after exiting the machine.

Footwear: Travelers are required to remove footwear for X-ray screening and footwear that is easily removed helps speed up the screening process. Have you heard about TSA Pre✓™? If not click here to learn more about the new screening process that could allow you to keep your shoes on.

Electronic Devices: Portable electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, game consoles, and other personal electronics are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. When going through an airport security checkpoint, larger items, like game consoles and laptop must be taken out of carrying cases and placed in screening bins for screening. Smaller items, like mp3 players, tablets, and smart phones can remain in carry-on baggage. All electronic devices may be subject to enhanced screening.

If You See Something, Say Something. It is a shared responsibility to keep our skies safe. Please report suspicious activities to a TSA representative, airline employee, flight crewmember, or airport police.

If you are not sure what you can bring in your carry on or checked baggage, please check our prohibited items lists or “Can I Bring…” function on our homepage.

Need Help?

Call the Contact Center toll-free on 866 289-9673 or TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov

Disabilities and Medical Conditions: If you have a disability or medical condition that requires special screening or assistance, please contact TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227. TSA Cares assists travelers with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint prior to flying.