TSA's holiday traveling tips

The holidays are the busiest travel time of the year. The TSA works every holiday season to ensure travelers are prepared for the security measure in place

This holiday season, the TSA has the following links, lists and tips to help prepare holiday travelers for a smooth experience at airports around the country:

3-1-1 Policy for liquids, gels, and aerosols

The TSA is still requiring travelers to limit the size and quantity of liquids in carry-ons. Containers less than 3.4 ounces (100ml) must fit into a 1 quart-sized clear, plastic, zip-top bag; only 1 bag per passenger.

Larger liquids such as medications, baby formula, and baby food are allowed in reasonable quantities are not required to adhere to the 3-1-1 policy. These items must be declared at the security checkpoint and additional screening may be required.

Traveling with Food or Gifts

Passengers might be tempted to bring their favorite holiday foods or gifts to their destination - or even back home as holiday leftovers.

Pies and cakes are allowed through security checkpoints, but may be subject to additional screening. Wrapped gifts are not prohibited, but travelers should be aware that security officers may need to unwrap to take a closer look.

Items purchased in the airport after the security checkpoint have been pre-screen and can be taken on planes.

Snow Globes must contain less than 3.4 fluid ounces (about the size of a tennis ball) and fit in the traveler's clear plastic bag to be allowed through the security checkpoint.

The TSA has provided the following list holiday list of food and gifts that should be put in a checked bag, shipped ahead or left behind of they are above 3.4 ounces:

• Cranberry sauce
• Cologne
• Creamy dips and spreads (cheeses, peanut butter, etc.)
• Gift baskets with food items (salsa, jams and salad dressings)
• Gravy
• Jams
• Jellies
• Lotions
• Maple syrup
• Oils and vinegars
• Perfume
• Salad dressing
• Salsa
• Sauces
• Snowglobes
• Soups
• Wine, liquor and beer

TSA Cares Help Line

TSA Cares is a helpline for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. It is recommended that passengers call 72 hours ahead of their expected travel time for information about screening.

TSA Cares: 1-855-787-2227

TSA's Holiday Travelers Checklist (PDF)

Includes what travelers should do:

• Before packing, such as taping a card with your name and contact information on elections;
• When packing, such as placing large electronics on the top layer of carry-ons for easy accessibility.
• Before leaving for the airport, such as calling the TSA Cares toll free helpline at 1-855-787-2227 if traveling with a passenger with a disability or medical condition.
• Before entering checkpoint, such as having ID an boarding pass out and ready.
• After entering checkpoint, such as removing shoes, coats and jackets for quick screening.

See the entire checklist for more.