Mitchell International Airport warns holiday travelers to plan for long lines

Milwaukee (CBS 58) -- To get some TLC, you first have to get through the TSA. With Memorial Day just around the corner, airports are seeing an uptick in travel. 

It's an increase that's happening nationwide. At Mitchell International Airport, Frank Pipia says this one of the busiest weekends he's seen. 

“We’re gonna be seeing over 10,000 today and this is one of the slowest days," said Pipia, a TSA spokesperson. “Ramp up to 19,000 or more on Saturday.”

It's a case of the post pandemic travel bug. 

“We have a lot of inexperienced travelers during the holiday seasons, so people that may never have traveled or traveled infrequently," said Pipia.

That's why TSA agents say you want to be sitting on the other side of the checkpoint as quickly as possible. Agents are also reminding travelers to obtain a Real ID as soon as possible. The nationwide requirement to travel will go into effect in less than a year. 

“Get here early, up to two hours," said Pipia.

This holiday weekend, Pipia says there's no such thing as being overprepared. 

"Make sure that you’re ready. Pack smart," said Pipia.