These Simple Mistakes Slow Down Airport Security the Most, According to the TSA-and Not Having This 1 Item May Cost You

"The biggest cause for slowdowns at checkpoints is when passengers simply forget the TSA's key rules. Those who try to bring prohibited items like liquids over 3.4 ounces and firearms through the checkpoint will ultimately slow down the process. Small oversights can add up quickly, and even the most well-traveled passenger can recall a time when they forgot they had a half-filled water bottle or a small pocket knife, leading to extra time in line."

"Any personal electronic device larger than a cell phone, like laptops, tablets, and e-readers, needs to come out of a bag and go into a bin on its own. When these are left in your bag, the bag gets flagged, pulled, and screened again, backing up the line for everyone behind you."

"Not fully emptying your pockets before walking through the scanner can trigger the alarm, requiring a full physical screening by a TSA officer. Holidays and popular travel times like spring break make TSA lines even busier with the increased number of travelers passing through."

TSA checkpoint efficiency depends largely on passenger compliance with security procedures. The primary causes of slowdowns include bringing prohibited items like liquids over 3.4 ounces and firearms, leaving electronics in carry-on bags instead of removing them for separate screening, and failing to empty pockets before walking through scanners. These oversights trigger additional screening that delays not only individual travelers but entire lines. Peak travel periods, such as holidays and spring break, compound these issues by dramatically increasing passenger volumes. During 2025's Christmas and New Year's season, the TSA screened over two million passengers daily. Flight disruptions during busy times further jam checkpoint lines unexpectedly.

Read at Travel + Leisure