The Transportation Security Administration at Lehigh Valley International Airport is preparing for a surge in Thanksgiving travelers and offering guidance on which holiday foods passengers can pack in carry-on luggage.
TSA expects to screen 17.8 million people nationwide from Tuesday, Nov. 25 to Tuesday, Dec. 2, with more than 3 million travelers anticipated on Sunday, Nov. 30 alone. The agency projects the three busiest travel days at LVIA will be Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and Sunday after the holiday.
To help passengers move through security screening more quickly, TSA released packing tips for travelers planning to bring food items on their flights. The general rule allows solid items through checkpoints, but passengers carrying items that can spill, spread, spray, pump, or pour and are larger than 3.4 ounces must pack those in checked baggage.
Travelers can bring baked goods, including homemade or store-bought pies, cakes, cookies, and brownies, through security checkpoints. Meats such as turkey, chicken, ham, and steak are permitted whether frozen, cooked, or uncooked. Stuffing, candy, spices, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruits can also travel in carry-on bags.
Solid casseroles can go through checkpoints, but those with liquid or semi-liquid components must comply with TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule, which requires each liquid item to be in a container of 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a single quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. Mac and cheese must be solid and already cooked in a pan, though passengers may travel with ingredients to cook at their destination.
Items that must be packed in checked baggage include cranberry sauce, gravy, canned fruits or vegetables, preserves, jams, jellies, and maple syrup.
Passengers uncertain about specific items can download the free myTSA app, which includes a “What can I bring?” tool. Travelers can also ask questions on Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA, or by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).
TSA reminds travelers to follow food safety guidelines to prevent foodborne illness. Ice packs are permitted but must be frozen solid when going through security screening. Additional holiday food safety tips are available on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website.
Generative AI was used to draft this story, based on information provided by the Transportation Security Administration. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff.
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