Travellers have been left baffled by mysterious letters on their boarding passes (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)
A couple were left completley baffled while at the recently, after discovering which left them separated.
Going to the airport can be a fun experience as you check-in for your , wonder around the shops and perhaps grab a bite to eat before a trip away. But, it also requires plenty of organisation from passengers and security checks.
One holidaygoer, Jordyn Verzera, was confused after noticing a cryptic stamp on her ticket – and shared what happened in a viral video on her page , real name Jordyn Verzera, shared her unexpected airport ordeal after noticing the cryptic stamp on her ticket. She noticed a code reading ‘SSSS’.
This code meant she had to undergo extra security checks by the TSA, leading to a frantic bag search, swabs, and, ultimately, an unexpected separation from her boyfriend before their flight.
Viewers flooded the comments, desperate for answers: “What does it mean?”, said one. “Is it random?,” asked another.
: [TRAVEL]
Here’s what SSSS means⬇️ SSSS stands Secondary Security Screening Selection. Basically, on flights to/from the US you can get “randomly” selected to undergo a much higher level of security. For me, this meant separating all of my things from my boyfriend’s, pulling absolutely everything out of my bag, swabbing everything, and then making sure that my laptop turned on (which was rough because my laptop broke only a few days prior and would only turn on once in 10 tries??????). Any questions about SSSS? Drop them below⬇️ & follow @themobilehomie for all things travel!
: [HOLIDAYS] [WARNING] [RAILWAY]
“Do they cover your missed flight if it makes you late?,” thought another. Others could relate all too well, as one shared: “Me and my BF both got SSSS when we went to San Francisco!”
Another agreed, and added: “This happened to my dad—we were delayed forever!” “I always get that since I was little, so we arrive two hours early just in case,” shared one other.
has revealed why the stamp appears on selected boarding passes, and how to avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.
The ‘SSSS’ stamp stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection, meaning the passenger has been flagged for additional security checks before boarding. This can involve extra bag searches, hand swabs, and questioning, leading to potential delays at the airport.
The security process primarily applies to flights to or within the United States, but it is not exclusive to U.S. travel. If passengers are not prepared, the four-letter code can lead to longer airport delays, extra bag searches, and even missed flights.
The travel experts added that booking last minute can land you with an ‘SSSS’ stamp. The exact selection process remains somewhat of a mystery, but it is typically linked to random selection, travel history, last-minute bookings, one-way flights, or international travel to certain destinations.
Those with mismatched travel details or frequent flyer activity that raises flags may also be more likely to receive the stamp. By preparing in advance, you can avoid unnecessary delays and make your journey through security as stress-free as possible.
Top tips to get through the additional security screening with minimal hassle:
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Arrive early – Additional screening can take anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour, so allow extra time before your flight.
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Be cooperative – Security checks can feel frustrating, but staying calm and following instructions can speed things up.
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Have documents ready – Keep your boarding pass and passport easily accessible for multiple checks.
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Know what to expect – You’ll likely face extra bag searches, hand swabs, and possible questioning, so don’t be caught off guard.
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Pack hand luggage appropriately – Ensure your bag is security-compliant and easy to search by using clear pouches for liquids, keeping electronics accessible, and avoiding overpacked luggage.
Have you experienced this? Comment below…