Security lines at airports are fast, but sometimes they can cause a slight delay for travellers or require more screening. While many travelers just think of a boarding pass and luggage size, they don’t think about all the little things that get them noticed at the TSA checkpoints. Airlines continue to experience delays at airports around the country due to typical mistakes, ranging from packing to attire and lost items. By familiarizing themselves with these common TSA errors, travelers can navigate the screening process more smoothly and stress-free.
Forgetting Liquids Inside Carry-On Bags
One of the most frequent causes of a flagged bag during screening is still large liquids, gels, and aerosols. Most liquids allowed as carry-on items in TSA are 3.4 ounces or less.
Leaving Electronics Buried Deep in Luggage
Some airports may need to screen large electronics, gaming devices, and laptops separately. They may be packed in inaccessible areas, which can slow down inspections.
Wearing Excessive Metal Accessories
Large belt buckles, heavy jewelry, chains, and metallic accessories are often a problem at checkpoints, as they can set off alarms and add additional screening procedures.
Packing Prohibited Items by Accident
For some reason, people still usually bring pocketknives, tools, lighters, and some sporting goods on board in carry-on bags after use or travel. TSA releases revised lists of prohibited items via screening guidelines.
Forgetting To Empty Pockets Completely
Items such as phones, keys, wallets, coins, and earbuds left in pockets can set off scanners and secondary screening at the checkpoints. Be careful with these items and check your pockets before the screening queue.
Wearing Difficult Footwear
Tall boots, lace-up shoes, and complicated footwear can cause delays in check-in queues, particularly in airports where normal passengers still take their shoes off while being screened.
Carrying Unlabeled Medication or Powders
Drugs are usually permitted, but sometimes the presence of unlabeled containers or quantities of powder drugs is the cause for further inspection for verification.
Using Overpacked Carry-On Bags
The overload of packed electronics, cables, food items, and layered clothing in luggage could make it more difficult for officers to see through the bags and could lead to more bag checks.
Arriving Unprepared at the Checkpoint
Losing your ID, boarding pass, or having to take something off at the last minute can cause significant delays for others and in the lines. It is always a good idea to recall or recheck everything before leaving your hotel or home.
Wearing Bulky Clothing Layers
Sometimes oversized jackets, hoodies, or multiple outfits will make it hard to see the body on a body scanner and be subject to further screening or pat-downs.
