Airport Security Doesn't Have to Be the Hardest Part of Your Trip
For many older travelers, getting through airport security can be one of the most stressful parts of flying.
There may be lines, instructions coming from several directions, bags to manage, personal belongings to keep track of and pressure to keep moving while other passengers wait behind you.
The answer isn't to rush.
The better approach is to prepare before you reach the checkpoint, give yourself enough time and clearly communicate when you need assistance.
You don't win anything by being the fastest person through airport security. Take the time you need to travel safely.
Give Yourself More Time
One of the simplest ways to reduce airport stress is to avoid creating an unnecessary race against the clock.
Arrive with enough time to check in, handle your luggage, reach security and move through screening without feeling that every minute puts your flight at risk.
Extra time is particularly valuable if you have difficulty walking long distances, standing for extended periods or moving quickly through crowded areas.
Tell TSA What You Need
Don't assume security personnel know that standing, walking, lifting or moving quickly may be difficult for you.
If you have a disability or medical condition that affects screening, explain your needs to the TSA officer.
A Simple Way to Say It
“I have a medical or mobility condition and may need assistance during screening.”
Clear language can be much more useful than struggling silently and hoping someone notices.
What Is TSA Cares?
TSA Cares is a helpline for travelers who have questions about airport security screening or who need additional assistance during the screening process.
Travelers requesting checkpoint assistance are encouraged to contact TSA Cares before traveling. TSA currently recommends making the request at least 72 hours before the trip when possible.
TSA Cares may coordinate assistance with a Passenger Support Specialist, depending on the airport and the traveler's needs.
TSA Cares
Phone: 1-855-787-2227
Contact TSA Cares before traveling if you have questions about screening or believe you may need additional checkpoint assistance.
Because procedures and contact information can change, confirm current information directly with TSA before your trip.
What Is a Passenger Support Specialist?
Passenger Support Specialists are TSA employees who receive additional training to assist travelers who may need help navigating the screening process.
If you arranged assistance through TSA Cares, a Passenger Support Specialist may be part of that assistance.
If you encounter concerns at the checkpoint, you can also ask whether a Passenger Support Specialist or supervisory TSA officer is available.
Prepare Before You Reach the Checkpoint
Don't wait until you are standing in front of the screening equipment to begin organizing yourself.
Before entering the checkpoint area, make sure important travel documents and identification are easy to reach.
Keep medications and medically necessary items organized. Know where your phone, wallet and other important belongings are.
Most importantly, listen to the instructions being given at your particular checkpoint. Screening procedures and equipment can vary, so don't assume today's instructions will be identical to what happened on your last trip.
Don't Let the Line Behind You Rush You
This is an easy trap for older travelers.
You see people waiting behind you. Someone is moving quickly. You feel as though you're holding everybody up.
Suddenly you're trying to handle shoes, bags, identification, electronics and personal belongings faster than is comfortable.
Slow down enough to remain safe and keep track of your possessions.
The people behind you will get through security. Your job is to get through safely with your belongings.
Traveling With Medication
If you travel with medications or medical supplies, check TSA's current rules before leaving home.
Rules can differ depending on whether an item is a liquid, medically necessary liquid, medical device or another type of medical supply.
Rather than relying on something you heard years ago—or even what happened on your last flight—verify the current requirements before each trip.
What If You Need a Pat-Down?
If additional screening is required, TSA officers should explain the procedure.
Travelers may ask questions before screening begins, and TSA procedures provide an option for private screening when appropriate.
If you don't understand what is about to happen, ask.
It's Okay to Say
“Before we begin, would you please explain what the screening will involve?”
Wheelchairs and Mobility Assistance
Airport mobility assistance and TSA security screening are related parts of the travel experience, but they are not the same service.
If you need help traveling through the airport to the security checkpoint or your gate, arrange appropriate airport or airline assistance as well.
Read our companion guide: Airport Assistance for Seniors .
Five Simple TSA Tips for Seniors
1. Arrive with time to spare. Don't turn security into a race.
2. Organize before entering the checkpoint. Keep identification, medication and important belongings easy to reach.
3. Listen to today's instructions. Procedures and equipment can differ between airports and trips.
4. Clearly explain medical or mobility needs. Don't expect security personnel to guess what assistance you need.
5. Ask questions. If you don't understand an instruction or screening procedure, politely ask for clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does TSA provide special assistance for seniors?
TSA provides assistance for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other circumstances requiring screening assistance. Age alone should not be assumed to qualify someone for every accommodation. Explain your actual needs and ask what assistance is available.
What is TSA Cares?
TSA Cares is TSA's helpline for travelers with questions about screening and for passengers who may require additional assistance at the security checkpoint.
When should I contact TSA Cares?
TSA currently recommends contacting TSA Cares at least 72 hours before travel when requesting checkpoint assistance.
Can I ask questions during TSA screening?
Yes. If you don't understand an instruction or need an explanation of a screening procedure, communicate with the TSA officer.
Travel Smarter, Not Faster
The goal isn't to prove that you can race through an airport like you did twenty years ago.
The goal is to reach your destination with as little unnecessary stress and exhaustion as possible.
Prepare ahead. Give yourself time. Know what assistance is available. And when you need help, use clear words to ask for it.
The Smart Senior Travel Guide
How Travelers Over 60 Get Better Treatment, Less Stress, and More Help Simply by Using the Right Words
Bruce Goldwell's practical guide shows older travelers what to ask and what to say during airports, flights, security, delays, cruises, international travel and other common travel situations.
More Smart Senior Travel Help
Learn more about airport assistance for seniors or return to The Smart Senior Travel Guide .