5 Mistakes That Slow Airport Security Lines, According to TSA
From packing prohibited items to arriving unprepared, these common traveler mistakes can bring airport security lines to a crawl for everyone
Another day, another TSA headache—or so recent headlines might have you believe.
Headlines aside, few parts of air travel are more frustrating than inching through a long airport security line. While some delays are beyond your control, others happen because travelers arrive unprepared or miss simple instructions at the checkpoint.
We tapped a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) spokesperson about the most common mistakes that delay security screening and what travelers can do to keep the line moving.
1. Not having an acceptable form of ID
Travelers need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, to clear security. While face recognition technology through CLEAR and TSA PreCheck allows for Touchless ID—which does not require a physical card—that feature may not be operating or available at every airport. That’s why it’s still smart to carry physical identification as a backup.
Fumbling through a bag or suitcase to find an ID can also cause an unnecessary bottleneck, so having it ready can help you avoid the grunts, groans, and eye rolls from fellow travelers.
If you don’t have proper identification, either by mistake or circumstance, there is now an emergency alternative: Travelers who are unable to provide an acceptable ID can pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID, an at-the-airport identity verification process in which TSA officers attempt to confirm a traveler’s identity through alternate methods before allowing them through security.
To prevent further delays, however, travelers are encouraged to visit the TSA ConfirmID website and prepay through Pay.gov before arriving at the airport.
2. Packing a prohibited item
Prohibited items remain one of the biggest causes of delays in airport security lines.
TSA maintains a long list of prohibited items, yet many passengers—especially infrequent travelers—still accidentally (or sometimes knowingly) pack them in their carry-ons. Those who intentionally do this may hope they’ll make it through security unnoticed, a gamble that almost always slows things down.
According to a TSA spokesperson, when a prohibited item is flagged during the X-ray screening process, officers must stop to manually search the bag and locate the item, which can slow down the line for everyone. To avoid delays, travelers are encouraged to double-check their carry-ons before leaving for the airport and consult the What Can I Bring? tool on TSA.gov if they’re unsure about an item.
Some of the most commonly confiscated items include:
- liquids over 3.4 ounces
- gel heating pads
- corkscrews with a blade
- liquor containing more than 70% alcohol
It’s also wise not to overpack. A tightly stuffed carry-on can make personal belongings more difficult to inspect during an unexpected bag check, adding time to the screening process and contributing to longer lines.
3. Ignoring instructions from TSA officers
During the often-hectic screening process, TSA officers are tasked with moving travelers through it as safely and efficiently as possible. Their instructions may include removing shoes, taking keys and wallets out of pockets, stepping into open lines, or shifting to checkpoint areas with shorter lines.
A TSA spokesperson noted that screening procedures can vary by airport depending on the technology being used—meaning a passenger’s screening experience may look slightly different from one checkpoint to another.
Don’t be that person who ignores their instructions. For a smooth experience, follow the signs and listen to TSA officers’ directions to ensure the process remains safe for everyone.
4. Not taking advantage of special services
For travelers who may need extra time or assistance getting through security, TSA offers TSA Cares, a support program designed to help passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances that may require additional accommodations.
According to a TSA spokesperson, the program helps travelers understand and prepare for the security screening process, connecting them with resources that can make navigating the airport easier and less stressful.
Services may include:
- checkpoint assistance
- help with medical devices and medications
- accommodations for mobility needs and disabilities
- support for neurodivergent travelers and sensory sensitivities
- access to trained passenger support specialists
Requests for complimentary safety escort services can be made in advance via the TSA.gov website.
5. Not asking for help
A little preparation goes a long way toward making the airport experience smoother, and travelers don’t have to figure out everything on their own. Passengers with questions or concerns before a flight can reach out through a few support channels, including:
- texting #275-872 (“AskTSA”)
- messaging @AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger
- calling the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673
Automated help is available 24/7, and live staff can assist daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
Travelers are encouraged to visit TSA.gov before heading to the airport to avoid last-minute surprises and longer airport security lines.
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Disorganization or a lack of preparation can lead to unnecessary stress, wasted time, and long lines once the security process begins. If at any point the airport experience feels confusing or overwhelming, officers are trained and available to step in and help.
Stay alert, but most importantly, stay calm. Travel days are stressful enough, and sometimes a positive attitude can make all of the difference.