How not to be “That Guy” at the airport checkpoint (2024)

FAQs

How not to be “That Guy” at the airport checkpoint? ›

Be ready when you get in line.

You may be required to undergo a pat-down procedure if the screening technology alarms, as part of unpredictable security measures, for enhanced screening, or as an alternative to other types of screening, such as advanced imaging technology screening.

Remove all items from your pockets and place them into your carry-on bag. Empty your pockets completely. That means everything, even non-metallic items from tissues to breath mints. This helps avoid pat-downs.

1. Apply for TSA PreCheck® TSA PreCheck® can be a great way to save time when flying domestically. In addition to skipping the longer security lines, members aren't usually required to remove laptops, shoes, belts, light jackets or toiletry liquids at security screening checkpoints.

In Standard Screening Lane

Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt. Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.)

Farbstein said the short answer is no, you can't refuse a pat-down. If the millimeter wave scanner is set off, TSA is required to investigate. “If somebody triggers an alarm at the checkpoint, the way to resolve the alarm is to do a pat-down,” Farbstein said. “This has been the procedure for years.”

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

If you're otherwise looking to skip the TSA line, you may consider enrolling in either TSA PreCheck or Clear. Although these services aren't free, there are credit cards that offer statement credits to offset the charges you'll incur.

Is chapstick a liquid TSA? ›

Chapstick, lipstick, and solid lip balms are not considered liquids by the TSA. They can be in your handbag, carry-on or hand luggage without being separated into your clear plastic liquids bag.

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

By occasionally selecting passengers who don't exhibit any obvious risk signs, security systems can catch someone dangerous who might otherwise slip through. Random checks also distribute security measures more evenly across all passengers, helping to mitigate perceptions of profiling or discrimination.

The screening is conducted by a TSA officer of the same gender. The officer will explain the pat-down process before and during the screening. Since pat-down screening is conducted to determine whether prohibited items are concealed under clothing, sufficient pressure must be applied in order to ensure detection.

Why Does the TSA Swab Hands? The Transportation Security Administration randomly swabs passengers' hands at security checkpoints and airport gates to test them for traces of explosives. The TSA swabs are analyzed for nitroglycerin, nitrates, glycerin, or other chemicals.

Clothing and Fabric: Certain types of clothing, fabrics, or folds in clothing can create the appearance of an anomaly in the crotch area on the scanner's image. Loose-fitting clothing, heavy fabrics, or items like belts, buttons, or zippers in that area can trigger alerts.