The Transportation Security Administration is issuing its yearly holiday reminder of what travelers can and can’t pack in their luggage for travel.
“We see a lot of presents during the holiday season,” said Tahara Pleasure-Lebron, master security transportation inspector. “Keep in mind, we want you to use gift bags because if you come with anything that’s wrapped, we do have to search it.”
And, if you’re thinking of sneaking some of your grandma’s favorite jams into your carry-on, think again.
“They cannot go through the screening checkpoint, however, a fruit cake can go through the screening checkpoint,” said Pleasure-Lebron.
This year, AAA projects more than 122 million people will travel to their holiday destination. Just over 8 million of them will fly. So, what you pack may determine how quickly you get from point A to point B.
TSA recommends starting with an empty bag since you’re less likely to pack something that’s prohibited.
Also, pack a valid ID and leave two hours early to give yourself enough time to move through the airport and accomodate any unforeseen delays.
“The general rule of thumb is that if you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it’s not a solid,” said Brian Bushnell, TSA acting federal security director for upstate New York. “If it’s more than 3.4 ounces, it should be packed in a checked bag.”
Bushnell said TSA will roll out its Confirm ID Program on Feb. 1. This is for travelers without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification like a passport. There’s a $45 fee to verify identity that’s valid for 10 days.
If your trip is longer than 10 days, you’ll have to have your identity reverified before you can fly home. This can be done in advance at pay.gov. A receipt will be emailed to you which you can bring to the TSA checkpoint.