TKO’s Travel Tips

Written By Angela Oliver

As Memorial Day and the summer season approach, so do many exciting travel plans. Trans and nonbinary folks—especially those who are Black, Brown, Muslim, or visibly gender-expansive—deserve to travel with safety, joy, and dignity. We know that this world can be cruel and target us for our differences, but you don’t have to tolerate mistreatment, and instances of mistreatment are not your fault. In other words — don’t let them people play with you!

Whether you’re taking a road trip to your family reunion, counting down to takeoff for your beach vacation, or city-hopping to see Cowboy Carter, here are just a few tips to help you move through the world with confidence, safety, and self-respect.

AIRPORT & TRAIN/BUS TERMINAL TIPS

1. Know Your Rights at TSA & Security Checkpoints

Understanding your rights equips you to confidently assert them.

  • TSA must screen you based on your gender identity. You can request a same-gender officer and a private screening at any time.

  • If you are wearing a binder, packer, prosthetic, or have a medical device, you can carry a doctor’s note or explanation card, but it’s not required.

  • You are not required to answer invasive questions about your body or identity. You can say: “I prefer not to answer that,” or “That’s inappropriate.”

  • If you are mistreated, request a supervisor and file a complaint with the TSA, or the Department of Homeland Security's civil rights office.

2. Prepare Your ID and Back-Up Documents

Whether or not you have updated identification documents, you can travel safely by planning ahead.

  • Real ID enforcement started on May 7, 2025. If you don’t have a Real ID, carry a valid passport or other TSA-accepted ID.

  • Bring a copy of your name change or gender marker documents, if available, especially for international travel.

  • Consider carrying a pronoun/name card to hand to TSA agents if you’re misgendered or dead-named.

  • TSA is not allowed to deny you access to your flight solely because your ID’s gender marker or name does not match your presentation. However, having your documents updated can reduce scrutiny.

3. Protect Against Racial & Cultural Profiling

Security screenings often disproportionately target Black and Brown trans and gender-expansive people.

  • Black and Brown folks are disproportionately targeted for "random checks"—especially if you wear natural hairstyles, hijabs, or religious garments.

  • You have the right to request that hair/head coverings be searched in private and only by someone of your gender identity.

  • Say clearly and assertively: “I’m wearing this for religious/cultural reasons. I’d like a private screening with an officer of the same gender I identify with.” 

  • You can also request this search be done in a private room and with a witness present.

ROAD TRIPS, RIDESHARES, & BUSES

4. Plan Safe Routes Through LGBTQ+ Friendly Areas

If driving through rural or conservative areas, research safe towns, gas stations, and rest stops using tools like:

5. Keep a Travel Safety Kit

Having a few extra tools with you can make a big difference.

  • Include: updated ID, car registration, insurance, health card, emergency contact info, cash, and a phone charger.

  • Pack gender-affirming items like toiletries, spare clothes, and medications in an accessible bag.

  • Bring printed contact info for legal support (e.g., ACLU, Transgender Law Center, local LGBTQ+ centers).

6. Stay Vigilant at Rest Stops and Public Facilities

When it comes to protecting yourself, you can never be too careful. 

  • Stick to well-lit, busy gas stations or stores.

  • If you’re unsure about using a public restroom, check for single-stall or family restrooms.

  • Avoid disclosing personal information to strangers unnecessarily, especially in isolated areas.

SOCIAL & CULTURAL SAFETY

7. Prepare for Misgendering or Harassment

Sadly, misgendering and invasive questions can happen. Stay safe, but remember that you have the right to advocate for and defend yourself.

  • Have phrases ready, such as: “I use they/them,” or “I prefer not to answer that.” Keep it short and neutral.

  • If confronted or harassed, safety comes first—remove yourself if possible, and only engage when you feel secure.

  • Document incidents with time, location, badge numbers, and witness info if you feel your rights were violated.

8. Connect to Community Wherever You Go

Joining a travel support group for trans folks or QTPOC can help you share tips and access real-time updates from people who’ve had similar experiences.

  • Use apps and hashtags like #TravelingWhileTrans, QTPOC travel groups, or Facebook LGBTQ+ travel groups to connect with locals or travelers.

  • Let a trusted friend or loved one know your route and check in regularly, especially if you're traveling solo.

  • Bookmark a few LGBTQ+ centers or legal organizations along your route—just in case you need support. You never have to go at it alone!

Angela Oliver
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In Honor of Kaitoria Bankz