TSA issued some travel tips for the airport security checkpoint:
• Be ready when you enter the checkpoint line — have an acceptable ID and boarding pass out of your wallet and ready to hand to the TSA officer. Once you get to the divesting tables, remove laptops, any electronics larger than a cell phone and liquids from carry-on baggage and place those items in a checkpoint bin.
• If you are unsure if an item is allowed through security, get live assistance by tweeting your questions and comments to @AskTSA or via Facebook Messenger on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on weekends/holidays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.
• Prepare for security when packing — put large liquids, gels, creams and aerosols, such as shampoo, conditioner, suntan lotion, shaving cream and anti-perspirant, into checked bags. If you’ve only got a carry-on bag, make sure all of your liquids follow the 3-1-1 rule — 3.4-ounce bottles or less; 1 quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag; and 1 bag per passenger.
• If you are carrying powder substances, it is recommended (not mandatory) to remove them from your carry-on bag and place them in a bin for easy screening. Many powdered substances result in an alarm, which will result in a bag check. Removing the powder items is likely to reduce the need for a bag check at the checkpoint.
• Consider minimizing items that you wear to the airport such as bulky jewelry, scarves, hair accessories, large belts and other bulky items as these articles are likely to require additional screening. Remove all items from your pockets and put them into one of your carry-on bags so you won’t lose them.
• Equally important, travelers are reminded to check the bins when collecting all belongings after going through screening and before leaving the checkpoint screening area. Often, travelers leave behind laptops, wallets, ID, phones and loose change.
