Miami TSA and Immigration

Question

Hi hope everyone's well. I was just curious as to whether I would be required for further screening. If I was to travel from LHR to Miami with just handluggage. I have booked checked luggage but I am considering purchasing a larger suitcase from Miami if needed because I tend to overdo it when shopping for souvenirs. I will be visiting solo in September. I have visited New York in November gone with a friend where I was screened further but was allowed to enter without an issue after basic questions on my links back in the UK. I don't have any family/friends or ties to the USA, apart from just enjoyinf visiting the USA and am just trying to visit all the states on my bucket list going forward.

Thanks

Answer

Traveling from London Heathrow (LHR) to Miami, you will go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival. Since you’re visiting solo and this is not your first time traveling to the U.S., the process will be familiar, but there are some points to consider regarding screening and luggage.

Even if you’re traveling with just hand luggage, all passengers arriving in the U.S. must go through immigration and TSA-style security checks if connecting flights are involved. Your past experience in New York suggests that occasional secondary screening can happen randomly and is not uncommon, especially for solo travelers or those without close U.S. ties. This does not indicate a problem; it’s part of standard U.S. border security procedures.

Regarding checked luggage:

If you initially plan to travel with hand luggage only, you will still go through the standard immigration process. Purchasing a larger suitcase in Miami for shopping is perfectly fine, and you can check it for your return flight or carry it as hand luggage if it meets airline size requirements.
Random secondary screening can include questions about your travel plans, intentions in the U.S., and your return flight. Officers may ask about your lack of family or U.S. ties, but as long as your answers are consistent and show intent to visit as a tourist, there should be no issue.
Ensure you have proof of onward travel or return tickets, as this can help smooth the process if questioned.

Additional tips to help minimize delays:

Have all travel documents ready: passport, ESTA or visa (if required), and flight itinerary.
Be prepared for random secondary screening—it’s routine and not a reflection of any issue with your travel history.
Consider Global Entry if you plan to visit the U.S. frequently, as it expedites customs and immigration processing.
Keep your luggage plan flexible: buying a larger suitcase in Miami is common among travelers who plan to shop for souvenirs.

Overall, arriving in Miami with only hand luggage is fine, and occasional secondary screening is normal. Being honest and clear about your travel intentions, and having all documents ready, will make the process smooth. Planning to buy extra luggage in Miami for souvenirs is also a practical approach and should not pose any problems.