Texas Has a Record Number of Spring Break Travelers This Year
Look around right now and you'll probably see more out-of-state license plates than usual and most of them are probably headed to Padre for Spring Break. We've got a record number of spring breakers traveling through Texas this month, and that could mean slow-going for all of us.
The Transportation Security Administration says its agents will screen an estimated 107 million passengers and crew members between March 14 and April 28, and that's up more than three percent compared to the same period last year. In other words, big airports like Houston Hobby and DFW International will have longer lines than usual, and we should pack patience along with the 3.4-ounce shampoo bottles.
Have you ever had to toss something in the trash at the TSA checkpoint because it's a rule-breaker? Me too. With the heavy spring break travel, the TSA is offering the friendly reminder that toiletries like shampoos or conditioners have to be 3.4 ounces or less to be in your carry-on luggage. Bottled water also has to be at least 3.4 ounces. Some things like prescription meds might be okay, but they'll have to go through additional screening first. And items that have to be checked in include razor blades, bottle openers, large scissors and tools like pliers and hammers. When in doubt, leave it out. That's what Mama would say.
A lot of our East Texas elementary, middle, and high schools are on Spring Break this week, and others will have Spring Break next week. Colleges will have their breaks later, and those will run through April so expect the SUVs full of beach bags and Yeti coolers to continue to make their way through Tyler and Longview on their way to the coast for the next few weeks.
This is all good news because it's a sign that spring is finally here! We'll have better weather, some good 5Ks, and festivals, and a whole lot of grillin' and chillin' to do in the backyard soon. Staying home in East Texas will be fun too, and there's no TSA line to deal with between the fridge and the back yard. Score.