Over 18.5 million travelers are expected to take to the skies during the Fourth of July travel period, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The travel window runs from Tuesday, July 1, through Monday, July 7, with the busiest day forecasted for Sunday, July 6, when nearly 2.9 million passengers are expected to pass through U.S. airport security checkpoints.
This surge comes just days after TSA set a new record by screening 3.1 million travelers on Sunday, June 22, the busiest day in its history. The agency says it is fully staffed and ready and it’s sharing Fourth of July air travel tips to help families and vacationers navigate the upcoming rush.
“We are deploying technologies and procedures to improve security and enhance the passenger experience, including for families,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill. “We ask travelers to pack their patience as we work to provide maximum hospitality.”
Family-Friendly Screening Measures
Flying with kids this Fourth of July? TSA has made several efforts to ease the screening process for families:
- Children 12 and under may accompany a TSA PreCheck-enrolled parent or guardian in PreCheck lanes with no restrictions.
- Children will not be separated from their parents or guardians.
- Strollers, baby carriers, car seats and booster seats are permitted through checkpoints but must be screened via X-ray.
- Modified screening procedures are in place to reduce the need for pat-downs.
Get Help While Traveling
TSA offers fast and convenient support for travelers:
- Text AskTSA at 275-872 or message @AskTSA on X (formerly Twitter) for real-time answers.
- Travelers with disabilities or medical conditions can contact TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before their flight.
Don’t Forget Your REAL ID
With the REAL ID requirement now in effect as of May 7, travelers must present a REAL ID or other TSA-acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, at security checkpoints. TSA reports that nearly 94% of travelers are now compliant with the new rule.
Firearms and Packing Reminders
Planning to travel with a firearm? TSA reminds passengers to “Prepare, Pack, Declare”:
- Firearms must be unloaded, packed in a hard-sided, locked container and placed in checked baggage only.
- Start with an empty bag to avoid accidentally packing prohibited items.
- Review the TSA list of prohibited items before heading to the airport.
So, if you’re traveling over the upcoming holiday, remember these tips for an easier, more enjoyable experience:
- Arrive early, especially on peak travel days like July 1 and July 6.
- Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck to expedite screening.
- Check your airline’s website or app for real-time updates on your flight.
For the latest on security procedures and holiday travel tips, visit the official TSA website.
KEEP READING
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–Travel hack: How to use your wireless headphones to watch in-flight movies
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