TSA Agent Tips on Making Connections

Each second counts if you want to make your connecting flight. Making a domestic flight after arriving from an international airport is not one of the easier connecting flights. That’s because when you’re flying from an international airport into a main U.S. airport hub, you’ll need to clear customs and then the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) line—You can find out more about this by clicking here.. Flight delays are also out of your control. baggage rechecksBeing on time to catch your connecting flight becomes an Olympic event. 

Travelers need to be able to understand the variables in this situation. It is in their hands to save as much time as possible when going through the security checks and cutting out pit stops for snacks. Below, TSA experts who have witnessed countless panicked travelers miss their flights due to time-wasting mistakes, share the most common connection flubs they’ve seen on the job—plus, how to avoid these slip-ups like a pro.

Travel essentials that are the Best Value for Time

Not paying attention to gate changeovers

Solution: Keep your phone charged

Anker Magnetic Portable Charger 621

Former TSA agents and current travel newsletter Caleb Harmon Marshall was a founder who witnessed passengers not paying enough attention to gate changes during his tenure. Harmon-Marshall says that Orlando International Airport has several terminals which are only one-way accessible. Many travelers receive their connecting ticket when they check in their luggage at the airport of their first departure, explains Harmon-Marshall. “They rely solely on that ticket to tell them what their connecting gate is.” But it could change.”

He always recommends digital boarding cards, as they are updated frequently by the airline. Charge your phone to use digital boarding passes. Always keep a wireless. portable charger You can carry your digital pass in your carry on to access it at any time and arrive at the gate that is most current.

Mistake: Walking out of security without permission

Solution: Bring snacks, such as nuts and dried fruits.

Seleware Stackable Containers for Food Storage

One of the most common mistakes that travelers make is walking outside the secured terminal area. You will have to go through security if you make this mistake. again, You may need to walk some distance to reach the departure area, depending on where you are at the airport. 

Harmon-Marshall says that people who have a long layover often make the mistake of looking for food options. Pack your own nonperishable snacks like trail mix, beef jerky, and dried fruit. organized snack containersYou’ll get to the gate faster and be able fuel up while you are on your way. 

Overpacking toiletries

Solution: Purchase a set of travel-sized bottles

Cheodin Travel Toiletry Bottles Set

A TSA spokesperson says that despite the fact that this regulation has been in place for almost two decades, “oversized bathroom items are commonly found at check-in,” despite it being a law. The maximum size of liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage is 3.4 ounces. They recommend that you travel with your toiletries rather than playing a guessing-game with what you have. refillable, 3-ounce containers. It will make sure that your toiletries always have the right proportions, and you won’t be held up in security. 

Bring your drinks through the security checkpoint

Solution: Packing clear, reusable bottles of water

Yeti Yonder Clear Water Bottle

TSA recommends packing for a TSA checkpoint refillable water bottleIt is important to keep hydrated when traveling, particularly to destinations with warm climates. However, their spokesperson insists that you empty it completely before going through the security checkpoint. A little liquid left behind could cause you to be pushed to the back. 

If you want to make sure that your bottle will not cause any delays (and is completely empty), purchase a transparent water bottleLike this one by Yeti. 

Checked Bags: A common mistake

Solution: Travel with only a carry-on bag

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-on

Carry-on only isn’t right for everyone. But when you consider how much time you could save on a connection flight, you may be convinced to give it a try. Whether connecting domestically or after an international flight, “many travelers are confused about when they have to go collect their baggage and when they don’t,” says Harmon–Marshall. Many travelers are confused about when they need to collect their baggage and when they don’t, says Harmon-Marshall. 

Travel with us instead of worrying about whether your luggage will be moved or if you’ll accidentally leave the secured side of the airport and have to check in again. only carry-on luggage You’ll be surprised at how much time you can save on your next journey.

Incorrectly packed goods

Duty-free Travel Sleeves

Coidea Reusable wine bags for Travel

“Coming back from an international destination with improperly-packed duty-free goods is a big one that leaves travelers really upset,” says Harmon-Marshall, as this mistake can cost you tons of time—and, potentially, your newly-purchased items. If you have to travel from another country to reach your final destination and need to board a connection flight, this can be a big problem. you will have to go through TSA again Before you can fly.

If you have purchased duty-free liquids like perfume or spirits that weigh more than 3.4oz, you will not be able pack them in your carryon. If you are a duty-free addict and will be packing your bottles in checked baggage, make sure to bring bubble-wrap sleeves made for glass bottles. As soon as you receive your luggage, put the bottles inside these sleeves. Then place them in your checked baggage before going through TSA. This hack makes it easier for TSA agents to screen your bag and saves you valuable time.

Travel documents not complete

Solution: Trackable, organized holders

Allive AirTag Passport Holder

TSA suggests using a travel bag to store important documents and have them ready when you need them. “Once the IDs have passed inspection, return them to their original case. [their] “A spokesperson said that the safekeeping of these items is important. You’ll know exactly where your passports are and not have to dig through your luggage at the airport or security. 

Pro tip: Get one with an AirTag holder that’s built-in, such as this option from Allive. You’ll then be able track it down if you happen to lose it on your trip.

You forgot to put something in your pocket

Solution: Use a bag with pockets for personal items

Bagsmart Weekender Duffel Bag

You may forget to take your wallet, keys, boarding passes, phone or boarding pass out of your pocket as you enter the security area. You can lose a few seconds if you make this mistake. You’ll need to return to the bins and place the items you forgot on the scanner belt. 

Travelers often make a mistake when this occurs. You can also find out more about the other common mistake—forgetting those items were in a separate bin from the one they used for their luggage. Get a carry-on with a front pocket that is easily accessible. $30 option from Bagsmart. TSA recommends this method to allow you quickly place your belongings inside the bag once you have shown your boarding pass.

Use of unlabeled prescription pill holders

Make it easy to inspect your medication

Bagsmart TSA Clear Organizer 2-pack

A TSA official spokesperson says that “Medications are allowed in liquid, solid or pill form, but they must be screened for security.” You don’t want security to pull you aside because your prescriptions are not labeled when you’re rushing to catch a flight. If possible, place your prescriptions in the original bottle and in one container. clear, easy-to-open container. You can also use a compact pill organizer with labels—just make sure you’re able to pull up your prescription quickly, if needed.

Mistake: wearing laced shoes

Wearing slip-ons is a great solution

Konhill Women’s Slip On Sneakers

The truth is that the TSA has largely phased out the ‘shoes off” rule For security checkpoints. However, this rule may not be implemented in every airport. Even if you are TSA-pre-checked, you might still be asked if your bags are too bulky. 

TSA says shoes that are too tight or laced up will slow down your speed. Wear shoes that you can easily remove and replace, such as loafers, clogs, or slip-on sneakers. walking shoes from Konhill, above. They continue: “And wear socks!”

Use metal leashes instead

Solution: Purchase a non-metal option

TSA Fast Pass Metal Free Leash Harness

When bringing your pet through the metal detector you must remove any leashes that have metal. the TSA advises. If you forget to take it off, you’ll have to go back to the start of the line or go through additional screening—both a major waste of time. The purchase of a metal-free travel leash It will help you keep your pet under control as you walk through the metal detection device without worrying about Fido getting lost or setting it off. More about the Author delay.

Mistake: Using unapproved luggage locks

Purchase TSA-friendly alternatives

Sure Lock TSA Luggage Locks

They advise that while scanners allow officers to screen your luggage electronically without having to open it, there are certain instances where they must physically examine a piece. If you are the type of traveler that likes to take extra precautions with your luggage, then you will want to ensure the luggage locks you use are TSA-approved. If it is not, officers won’t be able to open it using their universal master key, so they might have to cut it to get in. 

It can damage your zippers and take up so much time that you miss your flight. What’s another reason to use TSA-approved locks? The TSA-approved locks are the right size to avoid snagging on airport conveyor belts. A lock that is too large can cause major delays or worse, damage your suitcase.

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