TSA Agents Can't Believe Travelers Still Make These 12 Airport Security Mistakes-Plus, What to Do Instead

""The top three things that travelers can do to assist with a seamless screening experience are to be prepared, be attentive, and follow the direction of the officer providing assistance," she told me. While Barker says she doesn't get easily annoyed, she admitted that passengers' lack of preparation-when it comes to what they're wearing and packing in their carry-on bag -plays a major role in slowing down the screening process."

""Working PreCheck can be quite annoying because you're dealing with a few passengers who believe they are entitled to bypass security," said Caleb Harmon-Marshall, a former TSA agent who now shares his top travel tips via the newsletter Gate Access. He also answered a burning question I've had for ages. Why are TSA procedures different at different airports? "TSA follows the same guidelines and rules as a whole; however, they may be running different screening procedures at the time of your visit," Harmon-Marshall told me."

TSA screened a record-breaking 3 million passengers and their luggage in a single day last year. TSA is hiring. Passengers can also help by being prepared, attentive, and following officers' directions. Lack of preparation about clothing and carry-on contents significantly slows screening. Frequent travelers using PreCheck sometimes act entitled, creating frustration for officers. TSA follows the same overall guidelines, but screening procedures may vary by airport or time; passengers should listen to airport officers rather than rely on muscle memory. Good packing habits can expedite screening. TSA agents recommend dropping common carry-on mistakes and adopting practical habits.

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