Managing the Post-9/11 Security Checkpoints
Following these tips will help you reduce your wait time at the security checkpoint:
- Do not pack prohibited items in your carry-on luggage or have them on your person.
- Place valuables such as jewelry, cash and laptop computers in carry-on baggage only.
- Tape your business card to the bottom of your laptop.
- Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry and accessories that contain metal. Metal items may set off the metal detector.
- Avoid wearing shoes that contain metal or have thick soles or heels. Many types of footwear will require additional screening even if the metal detector does not go off.
- Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment will damage undeveloped film. Checkpoint x-ray will not damage any undeveloped film under 800 speeds.
- Declare firearms & ammunition to your airline and place them in your checked baggage.
- If you wish to lock your baggage, use a TSA-recognized lock.
- Do not bring lighters or prohibited matches to the airport.
- Do not pack wrapped gifts and do not bring wrapped gifts to the checkpoint. Wrap on arrival or ship your gifts prior to your departure. TSA may have to unwrap packages for security reasons.
Most importantly, arrive at least 60-90 minutes prior to the departure of your flight to allow yourself adequate time to check in and be screened. Unfortunately, the screening process cannot be speeded-up, even if your flight is leaving in just a few minutes.
Further information, including a list of prohibited items, can be found at http://www.tsa.gov/public/.
————-
Kit loves to fly, and hopes to make your airplane travel more enjoyable. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
————-
