AIR TRAVEL - WHAT TO PACK / CARRY ON

The TSA Web site has a complete chart of safe items acceptable for travel on planes. Also indicated are items that must be checked and that are not permitted on planes. Please check the Web site for the complete list. Keep in mind that persons who bring prohibited items to security checkpoints may be criminally or civilly prosecuted or, at the least, asked to rid themselves of the item. You can carry on or check items such as cigar cutters, corkscrews, cuticle cutters, eyeglass repair kits, eyelash curlers, knitting/crochet needles, round bladed or plastic knives, nail clippers and files, plastic or metal blunt-tipped scissors (pointed metal scissors are not allowed in your carry-on bag).

Medical paraphernalia, such as diabetes-related supplies, nitroglycerine pills, and prosthetic device tools and appliances are allowed; however, they will be examined to ensure that prohibited items are not concealed. Insulin/nitroglycerine in any form or dispenser must be properly marked with a professionally printed label identifying the medication or manufacturer’s name or pharmaceutical label.

Camcorders or camera equipment are allowed. However, since all checked bags are now inspected via heavy-duty x-ray, TSA recommends that you place film in a carry-on bag to prevent damage.

Most sports equipment, including golf clubs, are not allowed in your carry-on bags and must be checked. The same is true for tools, firearms, or martial arts/self-defense items (including pepper spray or mace). A non-exclusive list of prohibited items is available at www.TSATravelTips.us .

Avoid over packing your bag, as TSA employees may have to search it. Spread books and documents within your baggage. Avoid packing food and drink in your checked baggage, and consider packing your personal belongings in plastic bags to reduce the amount of items the inspectors will have to handle. Most importantly, do not lock your bags. If they choose to search your bags your locks will be destroyed, and you will not be compensated. (The TSA will put a note in your bags if they are opened, although the note does not tell you why your bags were suspicious.)

Bring your boarding pass, ticket or ticket confirmation, and a government-issued photo ID for everyone over the age of 18. If you have a medical implant or other device that is likely to set off the alarm on the metal detector, bring evidence verifying this condition; this will expedite the screening process.

Remember, carry-on baggage is limited to one carry-on bag plus one personal item, (personal items include laptops, purses, small backpacks, briefcases, or camera cases). Check with your airline for limits on checked baggage. Place identification tags IN and ON all your baggage.

Once you arrive at the airport, keep the following tips in mind to keep your passage through security a breeze.