Every year when the holiday season rolls around, there is a massive increase in travel — it’s just part of the deal. That can make traveling around this time of the year extremely stressful, even when it doesn’t have to be. At this point, TSA has announced that holiday travel is expected to reach pre-pandemic levels of passengers. That means about 2.5 million travelers the day before Thanksgiving and on the Sunday after. So how can you reduce the amount of stress if you do plan on traveling during this time?
Holiday Travel Is Expected To Grow Dramatically This Year
According to TSA administrator David Pekoske: “We expect to be busier this year than last year at this time, and probably very close to pre-pandemic levels. We are prepared to handle the projected increase in travel volumes…”
TSA reminds travelers that some foods are not allowed to be placed in the carry on bag. While solid foods like cakes and cooked meats are allowed, liquids like cranberry sauce, gravy, wine, and jam, must be placed in a checked bag. A good way to know what can or cannot be packed in a carry-on is to follow TSA’s advice: “If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, then it is a liquid and must be packed in a checked bag.”
There Are Many Ways To Avoid Holiday Travel Chaos
There’s also a “What Can I Bring?” website that can be helpful if you’re still unsure. You can also send TSA a message on Facebook or tweet them questions on Twitter, their handle is @AskTSA.
They also remind travelers to pack items like firearms, which are not ever allowed in a carry on, to be packed safely in their checked bags and “properly packaged and declared at the airline ticket counter.”
Of course, it’s also very important for travelers to travel with the proper ID in order to avoid unnecessary travel stress. This includes a passport or driver’s license. While not necessary this year, starting in 2024, it will be necessary for a driver’s license to be a REAL ID, which is an enhanced issued driver’s license or ID card, so make sure you think ahead about that for future travel plans.
If you follow all of the proper protocols, you should not have any issues during your travels during the holiday season or the rest of the year. Happy travels!
Make Sure You Follow The Protocol To Avoid Stress
