With the return of international travel and domestic holiday travel season approaching, we take a look at the latest TSA rules so you can stay safe and protect others too. Don't forget that official advice from the CDC says you should get up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travelling, check any restrictions and guidance at your destination and consider getting a test before travelling.

Many airlines and airports will have their own guidance, however, you should arrive at the airport earlier than usual to ensure you leave enough time for checking in bags, completing security screening and getting to the departure gate. While airports are getting busier again, the effects of the pandemic are still affecting staffing and operations.

Ensure you're always observing the recommended six feet (2m) distancing between yourself, other passengers and TSA officers. Expect longer lines at security checkpoints as passengers will be asked to space out where possible and there will be visual reminders and markings on the floor. TSA explains that no two airports are alike so the rules will most likely vary at different terminals.

To avoid potential cross-contamination, you're no longer required to give your boarding pass to a TSA officer directly. Instead, place your boarding pass on the reader yourself and hold it up in front of the officer for inspection. The TSA is also in the middle of phased implementation of acrylic barriers at points where interaction between passengers and TSA officers is required, so don't be surprised to see them too.

Although the Executive Order on face masks at airports no longer applies, both CDC and TSA advise wearing one, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune system. TSA officers are no longer required to wear a mask, however, you'll notice some officers wearing gloves and eye protection and clear plastic face shields at some locations.

You will be asked to remove your mask to check your identity and should comply. Make sure to wash or sanitise your hands immediately after you've touched your mask and don't touch your face or eyes.

Officers are already required to wear disposable gloves, which have to be inspected and changed regularly. However, if you're asked aside for a pat-down, you can ask the officer to change their gloves. The same measure applies in the unlikely case that a TSA officer has to go through your check-in bags and personal belongings.

Travellers are encouraged to pack small items like belts, keys, money and phones in their carry-on before passing through security screening. While these items are usually dropped in the bins, this new procedure helps reduce touch points during the screening process to protect everyone. 

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As food items can often trigger an alarm during the screening process, TSA is now asking for passengers to remove all their food items from their bags, put them in a clear plastic bag and place it in the bin. This means that the TSA officer won't have to open your carry-on bag for inspection, reducing the chance of cross-contamination and the need for a TSA officer to touch your personal belongings.

TSA are asking passengers to be extra mindful of whether they're carrying any prohibited items in their carry-on to minimise the need to touch passengers' personal belongings and ensure social distancing. Make sure all liquids are no greater than 3.4oz (100ml). If there is a prohibited item in your bag, you will likely be asked to return outside the security area to remove the items and queue for security screening again, rather than have an officer search your luggage.

In response to COVID-19, passengers are allowed to carry one liquid hand sanitiser up to 12 ounces (340ml) per passenger in their carry-on. The hand sanitiser must be removed from the carry-on before it passes through the X-ray for scanning and has to be screened separately.

The TSA Twitter account has also confirmed that pre-moistened wipes, including antibacterial wipes, are allowed in carry-on bags without size restrictions. They also don't need to be packed with travel-size liquids, which is especially handy if you're travelling with kids.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of carrying coronavirus is washing your hands regularly. The TSA advises thoroughly cleaning your hands before and after going through the security screening process, while the CDC has a helpful five-step method and tips on the most efficient way to do it.

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If you've not been able to renew your ID, like a passport or state driver's license that's expired after 1 March 2020, TSA will still accept an expired ID a year after the expiration date. Remember that these rules only apply to domestic travel.

While there is a long list of IDs you can use, there are also some you can't, like temporary IDs and paper driving licenses – although it's not a new rule, it's still worth remembering. Rules around IDs will be changing in May 2023, when REAL ID will come into effect.

In case you've misplaced or forgotten to pack your ID, you might still be able to board a domestic flight. You might be asked to complete an identity verification process which includes stating your name, current address and other personal information to the TSA officer, who can then confirm your identity. In this instance, you will be subject to additional security screening, including a pat-down and screening of carry-on property.

Initiated in 2011, the TSA PreCheck programme is a great way to speed up your journey through the airport and is even more relevant now. Subject to approval, PreCheck passengers are allowed to leave shoes, a belt and a light jacket on. They also don't need to remove liquids and laptops from their carry-on bag at security screening. The five-year membership costs $85 (£75). 

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To make your airport experience even smoother, sign up for CLEAR. A new platform certified by the Department of Homeland Security and the Safety Act, CLEAR allows passengers to skip the TSA security screening and head straight for a designated lane where your biometrics are used to check your identity. The membership costs $189 (£168) a year and can be used not only in airports, but also to attend events at stadiums and arenas. The scheme is currently available at more than 60 locations across the US.

If you're a frequent flier or just want to be up to date with the most recent security information, download the MyTSA app. It offers access to countless travel tips, answers most frequently asked questions and has all the security information and latest updates.

This four-legged friend was discovered hidden in a check-in suitcase during a regular security screening at the Erie International Airport in Pennsylvania. This could have been an extremely dangerous flight for the cat, however, TSA officers made sure she was given proper care at the local humane society. It's worth knowing that pets are allowed on board (depending on airline T&Cs) and are allowed to pass through a security checkpoint, but you have to get them a ticket first. 

Ahead of the holidays, TSA has also warned not to pack your gifts already wrapped. Whether they're tucked away in your checked luggage or in your carry-on, TSA can and will unwrap any presents if they need to check the contents. It's also worth reminding yourself of the prohibited items list so you're packing your presents safely.

If you're only travelling with cabin bags and want to surprise your hosts at the other end with a festive charcuterie board, be mindful that only solid cheeses can be brought on board. Similarly, drained olives are fine, but any dips and foods in oil or brine either need to be left behind or contained to containers no larger than 3.4oz (100ml).

If you're planning to travel with something in your carry-on or checked baggage that you're not quite sure about, the AskTSA Twitter account is a great resource to get in touch with TSA and also to see what other travellers have asked. Similarly, travel tips as well as some surprising items that have been confiscated from travellers' bags are often shared on TSA Instagram account.

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