TSA offers packing tips as holiday travel gets underway

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – The year’s busiest travel days are here.

More people are expected to travel over the next few days both nationally and in Milwaukee compared to last year.

Experts predict 11,000-12,000 passengers will travel through General Mitchell International Airport daily during the holidays. Meanwhile, more than 25 million people are expected to pass through airport security across the nation and TSA wants the process to go as smooth as possible.

The agency has several tips for the public this holiday season.

Items like pies, cakes and cookies are allowed in carry-on luggage but gels or liquids like cranberry sauce and eggnog are not.

Cheese must be solid or frozen as spreadable cheese will be taken away. If a wrapped present sets off an alarm, TSA officers may have to unwrap the gift. Authorities say the best tip is to pack smart.

“Be prepared for security when packing,” General Mitchell International Airport security director Mark Lendvay said. “Ensure that no prohibited items, knives, tools, some of your common household things that you may have, are not inside your carry-on bags.”

More information on accepted and prohibited items can be found on the TSA website.