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If you thought ranches and rodeos were the only place for cattle herds, you haven’t been to an airport!
There’s no doubt TSA agents have a tough job keeping travelers safe, and it’s easy to see all the potential threats they deal with daily, from questionable liquids to sharp objects and always that one traveler who forgets to pack deodorant.
But on the receiving end, it’s a frustrating ordeal being moved like livestock in tight spaces where every airport seems to have different rules, which can add precious time to getting to your gate.
Plus, just when you think you’ve struck gold with a TSA PreCheck emblem on your boarding pass, somehow the PreCheck line always seems to be longer than the standard line of normies.
Security checkpoints and the boarding process may be the most annoying parts of travel, and a busy spring season surely won’t change that, but the TSA just issued a new travel alert urging travelers to follow 4 essential tips to make your experience at airports as seamless as possible.
Pack Wisely And Think Ahead
We’ve all been behind that one person who seems like they’ve never traveled before. Oh, that’s me. Sorry.
Despite having traveled to nearly 40 countries, that should speak volumes about how unorganized each airport around the world can be.
Well, with the exception of Oman – that place is spotless and a well-oiled machine!
But here in the U.S., it’s a fustercluck come spring, followed by summer. No matter how many places I go, it’s always a guessing game if liquids and electronics need to be removed and if I remember to take off my metal-clasped bracelet that always sets off that stupid machine.
TSA is asking travelers to meticulously organize their carry-ons for when these situations arise. This means having your liquids and electronics accessible so as not to hold up the line.
Sorry, guys. I’ll be better.
Furthermore, you can text or tweet (is that still a thing?) TSA with any questions regarding compliance.
Text: 275-872
X: @AskTSA
Arrive Early: Don’t Believe The ‘Airport Theory’
Just like we’ve all been behind people like me in airport lines, we’ve surely also tested fate by arriving way too close for comfort, ultimately missing our flight entirely or making it by the skin of our teeth.
TSA is urging travelers to arrive early and not take part in the current TikTok ‘airport theory’ which tests if you really need to arrive the suggested 2 hours before flight departure.
Newsflash: it doesn’t work!
As spring is one of the busiest times of year, it’s best to face the music and arrive early to ensure you make the vacation you’ve been waiting for all winter.
TSA considers spring’s peak season March 6 – 24, so if your trip falls in this window, expect crowds.
Last Call For REAL IDs!
The time has finally arrived. REAL IDs will be required for all flights this spring with few exceptions.
The goalpost has been pushed back until May 7, 2025 when TSA will be enforcing the new requirement to board flights.
While nobody wants to visit the DMV, nobody wants to miss their flight either over something so simple.
Every passenger aged 18 and over must show a valid ID or U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card.
There are some other options to bypass the new REAL ID requirements. For example, I don’t need one since I have a SENTRI card.
To view a full list of exemptions, click here.
A Little Patience Goes A Long Way
As frustrating as airports can be, try to remember TSA agents are human like you and me and are simply doing their job to keep us all safe.
While certain tactics and rules may seem over the top, it’s for our own good whether we like it in the moment or not.
The truth is if you’re an avid traveler this spring, you’re going to experience some airport headaches, so it’s best to simply embrace it’s going to happen.
A little patience goes a long way and helps keep the security process running smoothly. And just know it’s illegal to harass and impede the work of federal employees, including TSA.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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