What Would You Change About TSA? Here’s What Travelers Are Saying — and How I Can Help You Beat the Lines

Airports. Security lines. Shoe shuffle. Tiny liquid bags. If you’ve traveled by air in the last two decades, chances are you’ve sighed your way through a TSA checkpoint wondering: “Why is this still so stressful?”

As a travel advisor who helps clients navigate not just where to go but how to get there stress-free, I’ve been paying close attention to the big changes TSA is rolling out in 2025 — and what travelers wish would change next.

The good news? Some changes are already here. The better news? You don’t have to navigate them alone.

Let’s break down what’s really happening at TSA checkpoints this summer, what travelers are saying about it, and how working with a professional travel advisor can make your next trip through security (and beyond) much smoother. 

What’s New With TSA in 2025?

You may have already heard: TSA is finally starting to ease its notorious “shoes-off” requirement at security checkpoints. Thanks to advanced scanning technology, travelers at more and more U.S. airports can now keep their shoes on while passing through.

The rollout began as a pilot program in 2024 and, as of July 2025, it’s available at nearly 60 percent of TSA checkpoints nationwide — primarily at major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, and Los Angeles.

For the first time in years, travelers are walking through security with their dignity (and footwear) intact.

But here’s the catch: 

• Not every airport or terminal has the technology yet.
• Even in participating airports, some lanes still require the old procedure.
• Rules can change based on staffing and security level. 

So while this progress is exciting, travelers still face inconsistency, confusion, and occasional frustration. 

What Travelers Wish TSA Would Fix Next

This summer, I asked my own clients and community: “If you could change one thing about TSA, what would it be?” 
Here are the top five answers I heard — and what you can actually do about them. 

1. Make the Rules the Same Everywhere

“At one airport I keep my shoes on. At another, I have to take them off. Then they tell me my bag is fine here, but it’s flagged there.”

Travel advisor tip: I keep up with TSA policies, airport by airport, so I can advise you what to expect at your departure and return airports. No surprises means less stress. 

2. Eliminate the Liquids Rule

“Enough already with the tiny bottles and plastic baggies!”

Good news: TSA is actively testing scanners that detect liquids without removing them from your bag — and it’s likely the 3-1-1 rule will be phased out by 2027. In the meantime, I help clients pack smart so they breeze through security. 

3. Speed Up the Lines

“Even with PreCheck, I still end up waiting sometimes.”

Pro tip: Some airports also offer CLEAR, a separate service you can combine with PreCheck. I can help you decide which program fits your travel style. 

4. Be More Family-Friendly

“Traveling with kids through TSA is a nightmare.”

Pro tip: I plan family itineraries that build in extra time for security — and I help parents pack and prepare so the whole family has a smoother experience. Yes, even with strollers. 

5. More Kindness and Clarity 

“It’s not always clear what they want from me, and the agents seem stressed too.”

My philosophy: A little empathy goes a long way. I coach my clients on how to be prepared, calm, and confident — which usually leads to a better experience for everyone. 

Why Working With a Travel Advisor Makes All the Difference

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years helping clients craft unforgettable vacations, it’s this: traveling well starts long before you reach your destination.

It starts with: 

• Choosing flights that give you the best chance at smooth connections and efficient security.
• Knowing which airports and terminals offer upgraded TSA technology (or even better alternatives).
• Having a pro to guide you through the small details — like when to arrive, what to pack, and which services to sign up for ahead of time. 

When you book with me, you’re not just getting a vacation. You’re getting: 

• Expertise on the latest travel trends and policies.
• Personalized planning that fits your style, budget, and priorities.
• Peace of mind knowing someone’s in your corner every step of the way. 

“Whenever I work with my clients, I look at each of their situations differently.  For a client who starts to travel more than once a year internationally, I would start to suggest getting Global Entry.  For a client who is very nervous about making a connection, I would build extra time into their flight schedule, or choose an airport that is easier to get around in.  That’s what nice about working with a travel advisor, we sit down and listen to make sure that the vacation fits the client needs best so that the client has the best experience possible.  You don’t want to spend a lot of money and time on vacation and then have a horrible experience at the airport.  Plus, when you are at the airport, and if something does go wrong – we are there to support you every step of the way.” - Tina Moczynski, Travel Specialist and Advisor, Shores And More Travel. 

What Would You Change About TSA? 

I’d love to hear from you: What’s your biggest frustration — or your best tip — for breezing through airport security? Leave a comment below and join the conversation.

And if you’re ready to stop worrying about security lines and start focusing on your next unforgettable journey, let’s talk.

Because life is too short to spend it in the wrong lane. 

Ready to Make Your Next Journey Unforgettable?

Contact me today to start planning your next adventure — I’ll take care of all the details so you can simply pack your bags and live your list.  

Not quite ready to plan just yet? That’s perfectly okay — let’s keep in touch. Join my Live It List Club and you’ll receive travel tips, destination inspiration, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to help you dream big and travel well.