TSA Agents Reveal 9 Common Bag Blunders Killing Airport Security Lines — Here’s the Fix

These simple gear changes guarantee a more seamless experience.

When it comes to airport security screenings , both the traveler and TSA agents share a common goal: a quick and smooth procedure. "Ensuring people move swiftly through the X-ray line is crucial for our success," said TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers. Travel + Leisure A streamlined security procedure becomes particularly relevant during the busy holiday season When more people start traveling, it leads to bigger crowds at airports, and this year, the TSA anticipates record-breaking traveler numbers .

To maintain the flow of traffic, Dankers recommends paying attention to the directions from the TSA officer at the start of the conveyor belt; however, fundamentally, it boils down to this: how you pack That creates the most significant impact. She clarified, "The screening technology differs between airports." Consequently, "They will inform you whether you should keep items in your bag or remove them; they will clarify all details, so make sure to pay attention to their instructions."

Before the busy holiday travel season begins, Dankers and her team are highlighting nine typical errors people often make with their luggage when going through TSA security checkpoints. They also suggest simple changes in baggage items that can help improve your overall airport journey (all of these recommended products start from $13 and are available on Amazon). massive Cyber Monday sale You'll also discover helpful suggestions for travel accessories that will assist you in navigating TSA security smoothly.

Mistake: Bringing an Oversized Carry-on Suitcase

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The entrance of the X-ray machine is compact, yet not smaller than what most airlines allow as carry-ons, according to La Toya Maestas, TSA Assistant Federal Security Director. This means that baggage doesn’t pose much trouble during inspection; however, rather than testing limits, choosing a suitcase shorter than 22 inches in length and 9 inches tall would be more secure. Think about selecting a hard-shell spinner such as the Samsonite Omni 20-inch Carry-on Instead of using a soft-sided duffel bag, which might get squished into irregular shapes that could have trouble fitting through the X-ray machine slot.

Caleb Harmon-Marshall, who served as a TSA officer for seven years, now authors a newsletter titled Gate Access Packed with travel advice, he suggests using hard-shell luggage to safeguard your belongings: "As you send your bags through the X-ray machine, often you can’t retrieve your bag quickly enough, causing it to be crushed by the subsequent baggage."

Error: Lacking a Secure Location for Unstored Objects

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Large items can hinder the screening process if you're not familiar with preparing them for the X-ray machine. According to Maestas, if you're carrying a stroller or car seat, everything inside must be taken out including the child, as well as any toys, pacifiers, or blankets present.

In this scenario, keeping a compact bag handy to store your kids' cherished possessions—the items they refuse to part with for even a couple of seconds—will save you considerable time. Eddie Bauer Stowaway Totes Are large, versatile bags available in a range of bright colors and designs; additionally, they are collapsible, making it simple to store them in your pocket until needed. You can unfold them during security checks and use them to hold your child’s belongings before rolling them up again and stowing them in your carry-on luggage once everything is ready.

Error: Using an Inflexible, Traditional Stroller

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When discussing travel with young children, Maestas pointed out that even though selecting your travel stroller or car seat ultimately boils down to personal preference, these essential items can surprisingly cause delays at TSA checkpoints. If you're aiming to streamline your security check process, remember that compact strollers are more advantageous. can’t Fold-up strollers will need to be cleaned individually. As stated by Maestas, this implies you'll be required to step aside and await a security officer. Alternatively, consider using a foldable stroller such as the one offered by Summer by Ingenuity, which can easily pass through the X-ray scanner, thus maintaining efficiency.

Error: Clumsily Removing Your Laptop From Its Case

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As airports undergo upgrades, numerous screening lanes are adopting Computed Tomography, which "enables travelers to keep their laptops inside their carry-on bags," according to TSA representative Daniel D. Velez. Nonetheless, because not all airports have these devices yet, it's advisable to follow the directions provided by security personnel regarding the placement of your laptop or sizable electronic items.

Following Dankers' example, it's wise to travel with a like this particular one from Coolife , featuring a dedicated laptop compartment allowing you to quickly take out your device and place it in the screening trays. She advised, “Don’t assume you’ll breeze through the X-ray machine; ensure these items are readily accessible, either via a specific pouch within your luggage or simply by positioning them at the top of your carry-on.” Luggage equipped with rolling wheels and integrated laptop compartments offers an excellent option for addressing this concern effectively.

Error: Attaching a Non-TSA-Approved Luggage Lock to Your Bag

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Imagine this scenario: You secure your carry-on using a lock not approved by TSA. It gets flagged for inspection, but you can't find the key readily available. In such cases, as mentioned by Maestas, they must remove the lock by cutting it off. Because their staff has universal keys, opting for a TSA-compliant lock would be preferable. Use a lock approved by the TSA for your suitcase. because you’ll never know when you or a TSA officer may need to open the bag. Again, if you’re fumbling around to find the key or the TSA officer needs to cut it off, it’s going to take more time and slow down everyone’s screening experience.

Alternatively, consider upgrading your favorite suitcase to the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on , featuring an integrated TSA-approved lock (to eliminate concerns about forgetting your own lock or needing to purchase a replacement for a defective one), and currently discounted by 42% during Black Friday.

Error: Packing a Weighty Roll-aboard That Is Too Cumbersome to Lift

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To keep the TSA security lines running smoothly, every traveler must place their belongings onto and then remove them from the conveyor belt themselves. However, as Maestas pointed out, it’s quite typical to observe individuals who have laden luggage finding difficulty lifting overstuffed suitcases, backpacks, and handbags, which can lead to extended delays.

“Each individual passenger should know their limit of how much they can lift,” she explained. An easy way to avoid heavy luggage is to choose a softside option like the on-sale Bagsmart Duffel Bag As it tends to offer lighter constructions. Additionally, should you've gone shopping extensively during your trip and find your suitcase too cumbersome to carry on your way back, you can utilize the tote to better manage the load.

Error: Placing Unsecured Personal Luggage Items

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Canvas tote bags are ideal for quickly stuffing various last-second essentials inside them; however, regarding keeping things organized and secure, these fall short. Should your preferred carryall lack a zip closure, anything placed within might tumble into the Transportation Security Administration inspection tray. Consequently, you'd be hurriedly retrieving all the dispersed possessions as soon as they reach the end of the sorting line.

“Absolutely, that’s a strong case for using zippers,” Harmon-Marshall stated, noting that many travelers overlook the fact their luggage could tip over inside the X-ray machine. If you head over to Amazon, you can find several of these items. Bagsmart Tote Bag , currently priced at $19, features a robust top zipper designed to secure all contents safely and keep them organized as you go through the TSA security checkpoint, sit in your airplane seat, or drive up to your hotel.

Error: Neglecting to Remove Your Phone From Your Pant Pocket

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"Cell phones are integrated into our lives," Dankers reflected. Therefore, when an officer inquires whether you have a cell phone in your pocket, it’s best to verify. According to Dankers, too frequently she notices passengers hastily claim they do not carry one in their pocket, which ultimately slows things down as these individuals trigger alarms and then need to go back through the metal detector.

Furthermore, you can opt for a practical personal item bag such as the BesTour Belt Bag This design includes numerous easily accessible storage compartments, allowing you to effortlessly retrieve your phone whenever necessary without causing delays. It’s equally convenient for carrying your wallet, particularly useful when you have to swiftly present your boarding pass or identification to the TSA agent prior to reaching the security screening area.

Error: Failing to Remove the Batteries from Your Intelligent Luggage

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USB port bags won’t hinder your progress. But those powered by batteries certainly will," emphasized Harmon-Marshall. "Any bag with an integrated battery will invariably be inspected closely so the officer can confirm their exact nature.

If holding up the line isn't your thing, choose battery-free luggage such as a stylish duffel bag or travel backpack—our top pick being the Matein Carry-on Backpack. able to accommodate a week’s worth of clothing As per reviews, it features a convenient USB port allowing you to charge your gadgets while traveling using a power bank. without being marked for additional screening at airport security.

Additional Handy TSA-Approved Travel Accessories:

Rather than updating your equipment, consider making minor adjustments to your travel essentials to ensure your upcoming trip through the airport goes smoothly. Take a look at these TSA-agent recommended items that happen to be discounted right now. Amazon's Black Friday sale .

Eoout 24-Pack Mesh Travel Bag Collection

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Using a transparent, zipped pouch for your belongings ensures they stay protected and helps you breeze through TSA checkpoints effortlessly. "It’s crucial to keep your possessions secure so once you pass the screening area, all your items remain accounted for, eliminating the need to check the lost and found," Dankers recommended.

For instance, one of these Eoout Mesh Travel Bags offers an ideal way to safeguard small and precious personal belongings—such as your smartphone, Apple AirPods, passport, and wallet—that you usually carry in your pockets but must take out during the security check.

Narway Clear Toiletry Bag

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Similarly, get the assistance of a transparent toiletry bag like this. on-sale one from Narway To securely transport liquids, instead of placing them freely in your carry-on, Dankers recommended. This way, if a security official stops you to inspect your luggage, they can simply check one container rather than rummaging through your whole suitcase looking for a misplaced bottle.

JoyTale Dog Leash

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If you're traveling with a tiny pup that can fit inside a pet carrier, make sure to remove the furry friend from the carrier before placing it into the X-ray machine for screening. According to Maestas, keep your pet safely contained within the carrier up until just before your turn at security, ensuring their leash is easily accessible so you can quickly clip them on and prevent any incidents (keep in mind pets must remain leashed after exiting the carrier).

Rather than struggling with a bulky leash that’s difficult to fasten quickly, keep the discounted one handy. JoyTale Dog Leash In your pet carrier, carry-on, or personal item bag, ensuring you stay ahead of the chaos. This product is compact, user-friendly, and priced at just $7 right now.

Brita Purified Hard-sided Plastic Water Bottle

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Velez points out that water is typically the top item passengers leave behind when clearing security. It’s advisable to finish drinking it or empty the bottle prior to reaching the security checkpoint. However, if you frequently neglect to do so, he recommends opting for a transparent water bottle instead. Brita water bottle featuring an integrated filter To attach it externally to your bag. This way, you'll constantly be aware of the water level and won’t face unexpected hold-ups when heading to your gate.

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