As spring break travelers prepare for their vacation getaways, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is up for the challenge and is offering practical tips to help them plan for a smooth journey as they go through the security checkpoint and take to the skies. The busy peak spring break travel season begins around March 7 and continues through March 25.
But what will this mean for travelers who fly out of Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)? Pittsburgh Magazine reported in January that passenger traffic in 2024 at PIT not only surpassed pre-pandemic levels but was the most in nearly two decades.
TSA knows travelers put a lot of time and effort into planning the perfect spring break getaway, so we are providing the following tips and tricks to help make sure your special trip gets off to a great start:
- Pack smart and remember the 3-1-1 rule.
- To ensure you don’t accidentally pack any prohibited items, start with an empty bag. If you’re planning a trip to the beach, you might be curious about how to pack your sunscreen. Remember that any liquids, sunscreen containers, or alcohol exceeding 3.4 ounces should be stored in a checked bag. You can bring liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on, provided each item is 3.4 ounces or smaller and fits into a single quart-sized bag. Each traveler is permitted one quart-sized bag for these items. To avoid delays, passengers should search TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” webpage.
- Be checkpoint ready and bring a valid ID.
- Arrive at the checkpoint with either a mobile or printed boarding pass, along with a valid ID readily available. Pay close attention to the instructions provided by TSA officers as they guide you through the screening process. At many locations, you may be required to insert your physical ID into one of our Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units, where a boarding pass may not be necessary. Nearly 30 airports utilize a second generation of CAT, known as CAT-2, which features a camera with optional facial recognition technology and a smartphone reader. This advanced technology is more effective at identifying fraudulent IDs. If you prefer not to have your photo taken, you may request a manual ID check from the TSA officer without losing your place in line. For more information on how TSA is using facial recognition technology, see our TSA Facial Recognition Technology Fact Sheet. Reminder: starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. 2024 is a good time to get your REAL ID. Contact your state DMV for more information.
- Arrive early and please be patient.
- Spring break travelers should allow ample time to navigate traffic, parking, rental car returns, airline check-in, security screening, and any airport shopping before boarding their flight. The airport can be a stressful setting, so it’s important to stay patient and remember that everyone else is also on their own journey. Passengers who exhibit disruptive behavior at checkpoints, in the gate area, or during the flight may encounter significant penalties and could potentially face criminal charges.
- Call ahead to request passenger support.
- Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and/or medical conditions can reach out to the TSA Cares helpline at the toll-free number 855-787-2227 for any inquiries regarding screening procedures and what to anticipate at the security checkpoint. If you contact them at least 72 hours before your travel, TSA Cares can also arrange assistance at the checkpoint for travelers with particular needs.For more information, visit the TSA Cares website.
- Ask TSA before you travel.
- You can contact the TSA by sending a message to @AskTSA on X or through Facebook Messenger. Additionally, passengers can text 275-872 (“AskTSA”) from any mobile device. An automated virtual assistant is available around the clock to answer frequently asked questions, while AskTSA staff are on hand every day of the year from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET for more complex inquiries. Travelers can also call the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673, available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET on weekends and holidays. An automated service is accessible 24/7.
TSA encourages all passengers to remain vigilant. If You See Something. Say Something®. Those traveling abroad for spring break should check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Know Before You Go page to learn about required documentation.