Travel Tips for 2025 Thanksgiving: TSA Expects Unprecedented Passenger Numbers, What You Need To Know

Published on November 23, 2025

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates a historical influx of air passengers as the Thanksgiving holiday period draws near. It is estimated that between the 25th and the 2nd of December, 2025, more than 17.8 million individuals will go through security screenings at airports, and this country-wide situation will lead to unprecedented traffic in all US airports. This also covers more than 3 million travelers on Sunday, the 30th of November, one of the busiest days recorded by the TSA.

This year marks a significant increase in air travel as millions of Americans take to the skies to celebrate the holiday season. As TSA anticipates an all-time high in traveler volume, the agency is gearing up to manage this influx with enhanced procedures designed to ensure efficiency and safety.

Record-Breaking Numbers Ahead

TSA officials are preparing for one of the most crowded holiday seasons on record. In fact, Sunday, November 30th, 2025, is expected to be one of the busiest days in TSA’s history. This surge is a part of a broader trend, with eight out of the ten busiest TSA travel days having occurred in 2025. The daily volume of air passengers is steadily increasing, with TSA reporting a daily average of 2.48 million travelers this year, up from 2.47 million in 2024. This uptick reflects a growing trend in air travel, especially during the holidays.

The rise in travel is attributed to several factors, including more affordable airfare options and improved flight schedules. Travelers are eager to reunite with loved ones after the pandemic, making this Thanksgiving season one of the most significant in recent memory. TSA has also credited the tireless efforts of their officers, whose commitment ensures smooth operations even during peak times.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

With airports expected to be extremely busy, TSA has issued essential travel tips to help passengers navigate the security process with ease. First and foremost, travelers are advised to have their identification ready, including a REAL ID, passport, or another approved form of identification. This will help speed up the process as travelers approach the security checkpoint.

Packing smart is also crucial. Ensuring that items are easily accessible and adhering to TSA guidelines can make the screening process faster and more efficient. For those who have questions or concerns about airport security, TSA provides a virtual assistant service, which is available 24/7 via text message.

For frequent flyers, enrolling in TSA PreCheck is recommended. This program allows passengers to enjoy faster, more efficient screening. Families with children under 18 can also benefit from this service, as minors can travel with a parent or guardian who has TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.

Travelers with disabilities or medical conditions can contact TSA Cares, a program designed to provide assistance during the screening process. TSA Cares offers personalized support for those needing extra help at the checkpoint, ensuring a more comfortable and stress-free experience for all.

Preparing for the Holiday Rush

The travel industry expects a considerable uptick in passenger volume during the Thanksgiving holiday, and TSA is working hard to accommodate this surge. Airlines, airports, and ground transportation services have all adapted their services to meet the increased demand, ensuring that travelers have a smooth and efficient journey.

For many, Thanksgiving is an important time to travel, and despite the challenges posed by the higher volume of passengers, TSA’s preparedness and proactive measures will help minimize delays and disruptions. The high volume of travel on the busiest days of the year will undoubtedly be challenging, but TSA’s dedication to security and passenger service remains unwavering.

Stay Prepared for a Busy Thanksgiving Season

As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, air travel will be busier than ever. With over 17.8 million people expected to travel over the Thanksgiving period, including more than 3 million on the peak day of November 30th, airports will be bustling. TSA has developed strategies to manage this increase in traffic while ensuring the safety and efficiency of the screening process.

To ensure a smooth experience, travellers should arrive early, follow TSA guidelines, and take advantage of services like TSA PreCheck and TSA Cares. By staying informed and prepared, passengers can make the most of their holiday travels and avoid unnecessary delays.