Thanksgiving 2024: TSA Guidelines for Carrying Liquids and Record Traveler Numbers

Thanksgiving Travel in the U.S.: What You Need to Know

The United States is preparing for a busy Thanksgiving weekend. A record number of passengers are expected to travel for the holiday. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is ready for the high volume of travelers and offers tips to make the security process smoother.

Packing for Thanksgiving

You can pack as much solid food—like turkey and stuffing—as you want in your checked or carry-on luggage. However, liquids must follow specific TSA rules. According to their official X account, “You can pack any amount of solid food. But for liquids, there are limits.”

Liquids Guidelines

The TSA outlines the following rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage:

• You can bring one quart-sized bag for liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes.
• Each item must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
• Place these containers in the quart-sized bag and keep them separate for easy inspection at security.
• Containers larger than 3.4 ounces must go in checked luggage.
• Any liquid that alerts security will require extra inspection.

A TSA representative stated, “Anything that can spread, spill, spray, pour, or pump must go in checked luggage.” They also highlighted that the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols still applies for carry-on items.

Travel Projections for Thanksgiving 2024

The TSA forecasts a record number of travelers for Thanksgiving 2024. Between November 26 and December 2, they expect to screen 18.3 million passengers, a 6% increase from the previous year.

A TSA spokesperson noted that agents often encounter various situations during this busy season, especially since many travelers bring food for distant gatherings. This year, travelers should be prepared for the usual busy air travel periods.

Plan ahead, know the rules, and have a great Thanksgiving!