RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has projected that it will screen a record number of travelers this summer.

The administration said the summer travel season begins Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor Day.

Friday, May 24 is expected to be the busiest travel day of the long Memorial Day weekend, with nearly three million passengers expected.

TSA said from May 23 through May 29, more than 18 million passengers and crewmembers are expected to be screened, which represents a checkpoint volume increase of roughly 6.4% compared to the same timeframe last year.

To ensure that traveling goes smoothly during this time and to abide by guidelines, the administration has provided the following preparation tips:

• If you carry a firearm, you must prepare by packing it unloaded in your checked baggage in a hard-sided case and declare it to the airline when checking in.
• Pack your liquids in containers less than 3.4 ounces into a quart-sized bag in your checked baggage.
• Make sure you have a REAL ID or another acceptable ID.
• For those with TSA PreCheck, make sure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is on your reservation. Those who wish to become a PreCheck member can enroll online.
• Plan ahead to ensure you have enough time to park or return a rental car, take a shuttle if needed, check in and drop your bags and prepare for security.
• Contact TSA with any questions or assistance by texting 275-872 or by calling the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.