TSA Expects 18 Million Passengers Over Memorial Day Holiday — Here’s How To Prepare

Memorial Day weekend is historically a busy travel period, and we can expect the same this year. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says it is prepared for an influx of passengers, but wants travelers to be prepared as well.

Here’s how to prepare for Memorial Day weekend travel.

18 Million Passengers Expected To Fly Memorial Day Holiday

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen about 18 million passengers and crew for Memorial Day weekend travel between Thursday, May 22, and Wednesday, May 28.

Memorial Day weekend starts the busy summer travel season, with increased travel until Labor Day weekend in September.

“TSA is ready for the additional passenger volume, and we look forward to welcoming families traveling during this peak period,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha McNeill. “As a friendly reminder, to ensure a smooth screening experience, bring acceptable forms of ID like your REAL ID.”

The new REAL ID requirement is a new wrinkle that may complicate your travel plans. The Real ID Act sets federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards, and since May 7, 2025, having one is required for air travel and entry into federal facilities.

Since implementing REAL ID on May 7, TSA says 93% of passengers have presented a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, like a passport.

How To Prepare For Memorial Day Holiday Travel

Millions of people are expected to travel by air during the Memorial Day holiday, so expect longer-than-normal lines.

There are several steps you can take to help you travel seamlessly over the holiday weekend, even with larger crowds or longer lines:

• Make sure to travel with a passport or a REAL ID (You can check this link to see if your ID is REAL ID-compliant)
• Keep your boarding pass handy. Consider adding your boarding pass to your smartphone’s wallet for easy access.
• Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus (or apply if you don’t have it). Both services expedite the screening process for low-risk travelers. Children under 17 can join an adult with TSA PreCheck when TSA PreCheck appears on the child’s boarding pass.
• Take liquids out of your bag. Consider having a pouch or separate bag for the items you’ll need to take out during the screening process, including electronics or liquids.
• Don’t arrive late. TSA recommends arriving at the airport 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights. However, you may want to arrive even earlier if you’re traveling over the Memorial Day holiday.
• The TSA maintains a list of permitted and prohibited items on its website. If you’re unsure whether to bring a specific item, refer to it or contact @AskTSA on X (formerly Twitter).

Final Thoughts

Approximately 18 million passengers are expected to fly during the Memorial Day holiday period. That means you can expect longer lines at airport security. However, there are ways to make your travel less stressful. They include having a REAL ID, arriving early, and using expedited security screening services like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR.