Picture this. 

You're hyped about your upcoming vacation and can't wait to get to the airport to start your trip.

You took every precaution beforehand. 

You checked in well in advance. You got your boarding pass ready to go on your phone, and you arrived early, so you will have plenty of time to kick back and relax before you board your flight.

But wait!

While waiting in line for security, you noticed that you have the letters "SSSS" on your boarding pass…what could that mean?

Don't worry. While SSSS seems particularly ominous, it is likely not a big deal. Let's explain why.

What does SSSS mean?

SSSS is an abbreviation for "Secondary Security Screening Selection."

This means that you've been randomly selected for an additional security screening by the TSA before your flight. 

SSSS is part of routine TSA security protocol, which aims to enhance air travel safety. A secondary screening is exactly what it sounds like; it's another screening beyond what you usually experience when going through security.

This could mean that the TSA will do an in-depth search of your carry-on, a thorough pat down, or any other additional screening methods.

Why does SSSS show up on boarding passes?

Typically, SSSS will randomly show up on your boarding pass. However, a few factors could explain why you will receive this designation.

Last-minute flight

You might be flagged for an additional screening if you booked your flight at the very last minute or made several changes to your itinerary close to your boarding time.

Paying for your flight with cash has also been known to cause SSSS on your boarding pass. 

One way ticket

A one-way ticket could trigger an additional screening, especially if you fly to certain destinations.

Traveling internationally

You could be viewed as an "at-risk traveler" if you travel internationally to a high-risk country, as the State Department deems. Turkey is one example that has been problematic for several people and certain countries or regions in the Middle East or Asia.

Essentially, anything that seems somewhat suspicious could cause TSA to flag you and place an SSSS designation on your boarding pass. 

What happens during an SSSS screening

As noted above, an SSSS screening is really just an extra inspection. 

It could be a detailed pat-down, carry-on bag search, hand swab, a scrutinized identity verification, and screening of electronic devices like laptops, tablets, and other such devices. 

 Of course, this will take some time, so if you see SSSS on your boarding pass, plan ahead and give yourself plenty of extra time before your flight.

It's also important to remain calm and cooperate with TSA officers during your secondary screening. 

While going through an additional, lengthy screening can be annoying and is undoubtedly a pain, the whole process is designed to bolster safety protocols and protect everyone at the airport and aboard your flight. 

Getting an SSSS designation on your boarding pass can be unnerving, but remember, it's just part of TSA's comprehensive approach to safety and security.

Plus, now that you know what will happen during your SSSS screening, you should be able to have a smooth experience that hopefully is stress-free and doesn't lead to any unwanted delays.