TSA predicts record-breaking travel for Thanksgiving week, a 6% increase from last year

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — The Transportation Security Administration says this Thanksgiving could break travel records.

TSA is expecting next Tuesday, Nov. 26, Wednesday, Nov. 27, and the Sunday after Thanksgiving, Dec. 1, to be some of the busiest travel days. 

That Sunday could even exceed 3 million travelers screened, which would be the biggest day in TSA history.

"We have a little saying at TSA, 'pack your patience,'" said Grant Goodlett, the TSA's acting federal security director.

TSA expects to screen more than 18 million passengers nationwide between Nov. 26 and Dec. 2. That's a 6% increase from last year.

"Passengers are really back moving all around the world after Covid," Goodlett said. "I think there was some probably pent-up travel needs that people had."

To make the holiday easier for agents and yourself, TSA asks to have your ID ready at checkpoints, empty your pockets, and check all liquids over three ounces.

"Things that are liquid - that you can spread, or pump, or pour - gravies, cranberry sauce, wine, please put those in your checked baggage," Goodlett explained.

If you're bringing a firearm, make sure to check it properly.

Goodlett said 15 firearms have been brought to checkpoints just this year in Milwaukee. That can result in up to a $15,000 fine.

"Almost 100% of the time, I've worked at a lot of different airports, people almost always say they forgot," Goodlett said.

He recommends to start packing with a completely empty bag. That way you aren't bringing anything through the checkpoint that's not allowed.

TSA says to arrive at the airport two hours before your flight.

"Going through the checkpoint is only part of your journey," Goodlett said. "We have to find parking, work with your airline carriers to get your bags checked, and everything checked in. Sometimes we have more families traveling during this time of the year."

Officials say they're properly staffed and prepared for the week ahead.

"We're very confident in our ability to work with our partners, the airlines, and the airport to make sure that this is a good process for everyone coming through," Goodlett explained.

A full list of what you can and can't bring is on TSA.gov.