Read the instructions.
Ask an airport or airline employee where you need to go.
Then follow the screening procedures.
There's no benefit to panicking.
## Will You Still Be Allowed to Fly?
Being selected for additional screening does not automatically mean that you won't be allowed to board your flight.
The screening process has to be completed before you can proceed.
If the additional screening takes time, that's why arriving at the airport early is especially important.
A passenger who arrives at the last minute may find the situation much more stressful.
If you have an SSSS designation, give yourself extra time.
You may need to wait while security personnel complete the additional procedures.
You may also have to wait for your belongings to be examined.
The exact process depends on the airport and circumstances.
## What Happens During Secondary Screening?
The experience can vary.
You may be asked to undergo additional screening of your person and belongings.
Security officers may inspect your carry-on items more carefully.
You may be asked questions about your trip.
Your luggage may be examined.
The process can involve several steps, depending on the circumstances.
It is understandable to feel uncomfortable when your belongings are being inspected more closely than usual.
But remember that security personnel are performing their assigned duties.
The best strategy is to remain polite and cooperative.
If you don't understand an instruction, ask for clarification.
There's nothing wrong with saying:
“Could you please explain what I need to do?”
## How Long Does It Take?
There isn't one universal answer.
Some travelers may experience a relatively short additional screening.
Others may have to wait longer.
The duration can depend on airport conditions, staffing, passenger volume, the type of screening required, and other factors.
That's another reason travelers who see SSSS should avoid cutting their airport arrival time too close.
Even if the additional screening itself isn't lengthy, a busy airport can turn a few extra minutes into a much longer delay.
## Should You Arrive Earlier?
Yes.
If you notice SSSS on your boarding pass before leaving for the airport, consider giving yourself additional time.
You already know that your security process may take longer than usual.
There is little advantage to arriving at the last possible moment.
Extra time gives you room to deal with unexpected delays without immediately worrying about missing your flight.
For international travel in particular, planning ahead is sensible because airport procedures can take longer than expected.
## What If You Don't See SSSS Until the Airport?
That can happen.
You may not notice the designation until you print your boarding pass or receive it through an airline app.
If you discover it at the airport, don't panic.
Ask an airline employee or security officer where you should go and what you need to do.
You don't need to assume the worst.
Airport personnel deal with security procedures every day.
A simple question can usually point you in the right direction.
## What Should You Bring?
You generally shouldn't change your entire travel plan simply because SSSS appears.
Bring the documents you normally need for your trip.
Have your identification and travel information readily available.
Keep your belongings organized.
Avoid packing unnecessary items that could complicate an already lengthy inspection.
If you have medication or other essential items, make sure they're packed according to applicable airport and airline requirements.
Organization can make the process easier.
## What About Electronics?
Travelers sometimes worry that their phones, laptops, cameras, and other electronics will automatically cause problems.
That isn't a reason to panic.
Security personnel may inspect belongings more thoroughly during additional screening.
If an item needs to be examined, cooperate with the instructions you're given.
Keeping electronics organized and accessible can make it easier to comply with requests.
Don't argue simply because your bag is receiving more attention than you expected.
The goal is to complete the process and continue your trip.
## What If You're Traveling With Children?
Traveling with children can already be stressful.
Seeing SSSS on a boarding pass can make parents especially anxious.
The best approach is preparation.
Explain to children that airport security sometimes involves additional checks.
Keep important documents together.
Give yourself extra time.
Make sure children know to follow security instructions.
Most importantly, don't let your own anxiety make the situation seem frightening to them.
Children often take emotional cues from adults.
If you're calm and matter-of-fact, they are more likely to remain calm too.
## Can SSSS Be Removed?
Some travelers report receiving the designation repeatedly.
If you experience repeated secondary screening and believe there may be an issue with your travel records, there are official channels available for travelers who want to seek information or address screening-related concerns.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security operates the **DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program**, commonly known as DHS TRIP.
Travelers can use the program to seek assistance with certain recurring travel-screening problems.
It's important to understand that submitting a redress request does not guarantee that a future boarding pass will never receive additional screening.
