Travel Tips: Security Screening Tips

Before heading out of town, take a look at these useful tips for getting through security at BFM.

1. Plan to Arrive Early

On the peak travel days of Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, getting through security can take longer at BFM. We recommend arriving 90 minutes before domestic flights and two (2) hours before international flights

2. Checked Baggage

While you’re packing your checked baggage, remember to pack items in layers, place any liquids larger than 3.4 ounces in your luggage, and avoid bringing any prohibited materials. View TSA's security screening tips.

3. Luggage Locks

IIf you lock your luggage, please keep in mind TSA has been given master keys under the Safe Skies Luggage and Travel Sentry. This allows TSA to avoid cutting certain locks to inspect luggage. View TSA's security screening tips.

4. Firearms & Ammo

If you are traveling with firearms and/or ammunition, please review the following:

Firearms may only be transported in checked baggage only.
Firearms must be placed unloaded, in a locked hard-side container.
Notify the airline when you are checking in that you are transporting a firearm and/or ammunition.

If you need more information about traveling with firearms, please review TSA’s travel tips.

5. Carry-on

All carry-on items must be screened at the security checkpoint. While you're packing your carry-on, remember to pack items in layers, make sure all liquids follow the 3-1-1 rule, and avoid bringing any prohibited materials. View TSA's 'What Can I Bring?' tips.

6. Liquids Rule

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids in your carry-on. All liquids must follow the 3-1-1 rule; liquids should be in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or less per item. Any container larger than 3.4 ounces must be in checked baggage. There are exceptions for passengers traveling with medicine or baby formula food. View TSA’s special procedures.

7. Electronics

Electronic devices larger than a cell phone must be removed from carry-on bags and placed in separate bins for screening. View TSA’s travel tips.

8. Food

Surprisingly, the TSA allows almost all food items through the security checkpoint, so long as none of them are liquids in amounts exceeding 3.4 ounces. This means you can even bring pies and cakes with you through the checkpoint—though they will be subject to additional screening. View TSA’s travel tips.

9. Gate access

Only ticketed passengers with an ID can access the gates. There are exceptions for children under the age of 18.

10. Proper Identification

If you are over the age of 18, you must show identification at the security checkpoint to be allowed to travel. View TSA’s rules on identification.