If you are preparing to join the record number of people expected to travel for Thanksgiving this year, you should be ready for traffic and other potential delays, especially if you are planning to fly. The Transportation Security Administration is expecting to screen 18.3 people from November 26 through December 2 at airports across the country.

If you are planning to make some of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes when you fly or bring leftovers home with you, you have to make sure you know the rules so you can breeze through the security checkpoint without any hassle.

The TSA allows passengers to travel with 3.4 ounces or less of liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bags. The containers must be placed together in a clear plastic bag. Any liquids, gels, or aerosols larger than 3.4 ounces must go in your checked bag. That includes "certain foods, such as gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam and preserves."

The TSA has the following easy-to-follow rule if you are unsure: "If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it is a liquid, aerosol, or gel and must be packed in your checked bag if it exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit."

Other items you should make sure are carefully packed in your check bags include wine, champagne, sparkling cider, and canned fruits and vegetables, as they usually contain liquid.

Many other Thanksgiving staples can be brought in your carry-on, such as baked goods like cakes, cookies, or brownies. You can also bring frozen, cooked, or uncooked meats, stuffing, casseroles, and fresh fruit and vegetables.

If you are unsure, you can reach out to the TSA, and an agent will let you know how you should pack your food when traveling. You can get live assistance from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET by texting "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872). You can also reach out on X at @AskTSA or on Facebook Messenger at fb.com/AskTSA

Jeffrey T. Mason