WASHINGTON (DC News Now) - With just a week away from the Thanksgiving holiday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicts this will be one of the busiest travel seasons, and said they are prepared to make the experience as smooth as possible for passengers. TSA is preparing for an estimated 18 million travelers this Thanksgiving holiday. That's a 6% increase compared to last year, and a 17% jump from 2022. "We are totally ready for this," said David Pekose, leader of the TSA. TSA gears up for busiest Thanksgiving travel period, expects to break record Many passengers at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) are excited about their Thanksgiving travel plans. "I'm actually going to be in Cecily for Thanksgiving. So I'm doing a solo travel and excited to just get away," said passenger Brian Stewart. "I'll be visiting with my sister and I'll be going deer hunting with my nephew and just kicking back and relaxing a little bit," added Tom Van Ardsall. The Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday are expected to be the busiest days. "If you travel often enough, you can get through it pretty smoothly. Just be patient and recognize people are trying to do their jobs and getting irritated and doesn't make a bit of a bit of help," explained Van Ardsall. "I know that the holidays really bring out the worst in people. But I just like to make sure that I pack efficiently and get to the airport on time," said Stewart. TSA: Essential Do’s & Don’ts for Thanksgiving food travelers Officials encourage passengers to pack smart, arrive early to the airport, ensure liquids, gels and aerosols in your carry-on bags are 3.4 ounces or less, and if you plan to bring a firearm ensure its in your checked luggage. "Think of the things that we don't permit in the checkpoint just to make your own process through checkpoint easier, but importantly for all the people behind," said Pekose. With possible delays and concerns, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg said passenger protection has been a priority under the Biden-Harris administration. "Our department stepped up and stepped in to use every power within our authority to improve service and to improve the flying experience for airline passengers. Refunds for canceled and changed flights, refunds for late baggage, refunds for services not provided like wi-fi or seat selection or in-flight entertainment during disruptions, free rebooking meals, hotels related to transportation. No more family seating, junk fees for several airlines," said Buttigieg. To make your travel experience smooth here's a list of items you can not bring through TSA: Firearms Ammunition Fireworks Knives (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives) Box cutters Utility knives Razors Tools that could be used as weapons Flammable liquids like gasoline Aerosols Large quantities of liquids exceeding the 3.4 oz limit per container, and any items that could potentially be used to harm others or disrupt the flight For more information from TSA, click here.