Things You'll Need:
- Correct documents
- Slip off shoes
- Zippered jacket or sweater
- Plastic bag full of gels and liquids
- Patience
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Step 1
Arrive at the airport early. There is nothing more stressful than standing in a long line praying you won’t miss your flight. There is no harm from getting to the airport a half hour earlier than planned. With heightened security and holiday travel, plan on getting to the airport at least 90 minutes in advance rather than the suggested 75 minutes for domestic travel. Allow more time for international travel.
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Step 2
Check in online. Most airlines allow you to check in online up to 24 hours in advance. Check in online and leave luggage with the skycap at the curb. If your airport doesn’t offer that feature, use a self-service check in and dodge the lines for check in.
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Step 3
Unlock your luggage and don’t pack unauthorized items. For a list of items that airlines won’t allow, check your airline carriers website or www.tsa.gov Never lock your luggage and remove all personal items like medication, passports, car keys, and cameras with film.
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Step 4
Wear slip on shoes and zip up jackets or sweaters. Because of heightened security all airports now require you to remove shoes and outerwear to go through security. Save yourself time at security by wearing shoes you can slip on and off and sweaters and coats that are easily removable.
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Step 5
Prepackage all liquids in plastic bags. The TSA only allows one-quart size bag for each passenger for liquid and gel items. These items can only be up to 3 oz each. For a list of items that are not allowed check your airlines website or www.tsa.gov Compile them in a baggie before reaching the airport so TSA agents don’t have to inspect your luggage.
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Step 6
Choose bras and belts without metal. If you don’t want to feel like your privacy is invaded, choose belts that don’t have metal buckles. Women, because under wire in bras sometimes set off security systems, choose a bra without an under wire or opt for a sports bra. Put your cell phone, money and jewelry in your purse or carry on luggage to prevent having to go through security numerous times.
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Step 7
Follow direction. Listen carefully. You may not put anything in a bin with a computer or video game console. You must remove laptops from bags. By listening for specific instruction you will avoid have to repeat the security process and forgo excess security checks.
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Step 8
Have patience and cooperate with TSA agents. Snippy airline passengers only ignite TSA agent’s anger. Complaining does not help anything and only makes everyone have a negative attitude.
