TSA Announces Expectations for Fourth of July Weekend

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting a busy Fourth of July weekend and it's offering travelers some tips to make it easier.

The TSA "is staffed and ready to screen over 18.5 million travelers at the nation’s airport security checkpoints during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday," the agency wrote in a news release on June 24. 

"This year’s projection includes Tuesday, July 1, through Monday, July 7, with the highest passenger volume – approximately 2.9 million – expected on Sunday, July 6. TSA screened nearly 3.1 million travelers on Sunday, June 22, the busiest single day in the agency’s history," the agency noted.

“TSA continues to work closely with our industry partners and ensure our airport security checkpoints are fully staffed and prepared to handle the heavy rush of traffic,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill in the news release. 

“We are deploying technologies and procedures to improve security and enhance the passenger experience, including for families. We ask travelers to pack their patience, especially during peak travel days, as we work to provide maximum hospitality to our customers," the release noted.

TSA offered some advice for "families with vacation plans" who are "traveling with children."

TSA noted that "Children 12 and under may accompany a TSA PreCheck®-enrolled parent or guardian in TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction."

In addition, the agency advised, "Passengers should bring their REAL IDs or other acceptable forms of IDs to the checkpoint. Since implementing REAL ID on May 7, nearly 94% of passengers are presenting a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport. Travelers can find a full list of acceptable IDs on TSA’s website."

Related: U.S. Travel Warnings Urge 'Increased Caution' in Germany, Spain

.