Are You Unwittingly Raising Red Flags for TSA Agents?
As you make your way through airport security, you’re probably trying to get to your gate as quickly as possible, but some behaviors could be making you stand out to TSA agents in all the wrong ways. From using your phone at the wrong time to displaying signs of nervousness, there are several common activities that can land you in the dreaded additional screening line.
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The Art of Not Drawing Attention
You know the feeling: you’re trying to get through security, and you just want to blend in with the crowd. Maybe you’re running late, or maybe you’re just anxious about flying. Either way, you’re probably trying to avoid drawing attention to yourself. But, ironically, this very effort to remain under the radar can sometimes have the opposite effect.
Acting Distracted
Try to avoid acting distracted while going through security checkpoints. Keep your eyes on the prize (or, at the very least, on the TSA agent giving you instructions). Distracted behavior like fidgeting, darting eyes, or consistently avoiding eye contact can be a red flag for TSA agents. And, yes, this even includes loading up your phone with your favorite playlists or scrolling through social media.
| Common Distracted Behaviors | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|
| Darting eyes | Look directly at the TSA agent when they’re speaking to you. |
| Excessive fidgeting | Keep your hands and feet still, and try to relax. |
| Avoiding eye contact | Make an effort to look the TSA agent in the eye when they’re giving you instructions. |
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The Phone Factor
Using your phone while going through security checkpoints creates another layer of concern for TSA agents. Think about it: if you’re too busy texting your aunt or scrolling through Twitter, you might miss important instructions about removing items from your pockets or placing electronics in separate bins. And, let’s be real, we’ve all been guilty of getting completely absorbed in our screens at some point or another.
Phone Etiquette in the Security Line
So, what’s a phone-loving traveler to do? Here are some tips for using your phone in the security line:
| Phone No-Nos | Phone Dos |
|---|---|
| Don’t text or scroll through social media while in the security line. | Use your phone to keep yourself entertained while you’re waiting in line. |
| Avoid looking at your phone while going through security checkpoints. | Take a quick glance at your phone to check the time or your flight status, but then put it away. |
Other Red Flags for TSA Agents
Of course, using your phone at the wrong time or acting distracted isn’t the only way to raise red flags with TSA agents. Some other behaviors to watch out for include:
Signs of Nervousness
We all get anxious when we’re traveling, but try to keep your cool while going through security. Here are some signs of nervousness to watch out for:
| Common Signs of Nervousness | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|
| Throat clearing | Take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down. |
| Heavy breathing | Try to relax and focus on the present moment. |
| Stammering | Take your time when answering the TSA agent’s questions. |
Consistently Missing Instructions
Finally, make sure you’re paying attention to the TSA agent’s instructions. Consistently missing these instructions can land you in additional screening, which is definitely not what you want when you’re trying to catch your flight.
The Bottom Line
The good news is that avoiding these behaviors isn’t rocket science. By being aware of your actions and taking a little extra time to relax and focus, you can make it through security without raising any red flags. So, the next time you’re standing in the security line, try to take a deep breath and be present. Your chances of getting through security without a hitch will be much higher.
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