The holidays are hectic enough, let’s not make it harder on ourselves by getting held up at airport security. You and the other 119 million Americans traveling during the holidays can ensure your trip goes smoothly by knowing what Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) are looking out for that could slow down your trip.
Of course, TSOs are responsible for upholding transportation security to get passengers to and from their destinations safely. However, some common behaviors might draw extra attention from them without you trying to.
The most common TSA red flag is acting distracted. Though you might be waiting in line listening to music or scrolling on your phone, explicit aloofness could put you on a TSO’s radar. In fact, TSOs are trained to look out for travelers avoiding eye contact, fidgeting and so on.
Other behaviors and things that might raise suspicion can be the way you dress (if it’s opposite of the current season of your departure or destination), carrying excessive cash, being extra chatty (often used to distract), overt aggression, packing coffee in your carry-on (a common scent used to cover up contraband), etc.
TSOs are required to undergo 100 hours of training to sharpen their skills and their eye for detail. However, the TSA screening program has long since been ridiculed for its ways.
Moreover, there are plenty of changes and requirements going into effect in 2025 so be sure to stay on top of everything you will need for whichever destination you’re headed to. For example, much of Europe will be doing away with passport stamps and instead using a new EES system.
Furthermore, if you’re traveling to the UK as an American, you’ll need to apply for an ETA for entry. Meanwhile, Americans heading to Schengen states will need to apply for an ETIAS. Even if you’re staying within the United States, you’ll need a REAL ID eventually to travel domestically.