PANAMA CITY – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared for the busy Thanksgiving travel period and wants to make sure travelers are ready for it.

According to a press release from TSA, the agency expects to screen 18.3 million people from Tuesday, November 26 to Monday, December 2. That would be a volume increase of about 6% over the same holiday season in 2023. (On Monday, AAA predicted record numbers of travelers in Florida and nationwide for Thanksgiving.)

As you prepare for your Thanksgiving trip, here are some TSA travel tips:

What are the busiest airport days during the Thanksgiving holiday season?

“TSA expects the three busiest travel days to be the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday,” the TSA release said. “The agency expects to screen more than 2.8 million people on Tuesday, November 26, 2.9 million on Wednesday, November 27, and more than 3 million people on Sunday, December 1.”

How should air travelers pack for the Thanksgiving travel season?

TSA advises passengers to pack smartly and start with an empty bag. Passengers who do this are less likely to accidentally bring prohibited items through the checkpoint.

Related coverage: From TSA liquid limits to carry-on rules, your most pressing TSA questions answered

Which items are prohibited at the security checkpoint?

“All liquids, gels and aerosols may weigh 3.4 ounces or less when packed in a carry-on bag,” the statement said. “Certain foods such as gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam and preserves – which are considered liquids or gels – must be packed in a checked bag if they weigh more than 3.4 ounces.

“If you can spill, spray, spread, pump or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol or gel and you must put it in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4 ounce limit,” the release said.

Passengers are allowed to take cakes and other pastries through the checkpoint.

More Thanksgiving travel news: Best/worst times to drive, top destinations and more

Where can I find more travel tips?

Check out TSA’s top travel tips for an efficient and successful journey through security this holiday season.

“This holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest travel times ever, and the vigilant people at the Transportation Security Administration stand ready to ensure the safety and convenience of travel,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said in the press release. . “Many members of the TSA staff will be on duty throughout Thanksgiving day and week and I am extremely grateful for their selfless dedication and professionalism.”

This article originally appeared in The News Herald: Is airport part of your Thanksgiving itinerary? Here’s some TSA advice