Airport Security Guidelines: Carry-on Baggage Rules for Clueless Travelers

With all the rules on what you can carry and how you can carry it on commercial airlines, today it is enough to make a person rule out air travel. This is not practical for the world traveler or businessperson, so here are a few suggestions to make getting from the entrance of the airport to your flight easier.

Packing

With airport security getting tighter and tighter each day you need to examine everything you are planning on packing. While examining, these items ask yourself what is the possibility that airport security might see as threatening or may raise suspicion. An example would be a manicure kit since nothing considered a knife of any size is acceptable. Also, keep in mind not to over pack you carry-on so it can be opened and examined easily if needed. Organizing the contents will also make the procedure quicker and easier.

The new rules set in place as of August 2006 ban almost all liquids, gels, and creams from being carries aboard flights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a "3-1-1" guideline to help you remember what you can bring on in your carry-on luggage.

• Toiletries and other liquids that may be permitted such as gels or lotions must be in a 3-ounce container or smaller.
• Use a 1-quart size clear, plastic, zip-lock bag to pack these items together.
• One bag like this is permitted per passenger and must be removed from your carry-on bag and placed in a bin to go through screening.

You can bring bottled water aboard if it is purchased in the secure boarding area. Also, be aware that some food items are considered liquids. This would be such as jams, salsa, sauces, syrups, and dips, which will not be allowed unless they are in containers three ounces, or less and in a one-quart zip-top bag.

The exceptions to the rule are formula, breast milk and baby food. They are allowed in quantities greater than three ounces, and do not need to be packed in zip-locked bags. To do this you must:

• Be traveling with a baby or toddler.
• Take only the amounts needed for the plane trip.
• Declare these items for inspection at the security checkpoint.

There are also allowances for creams, medicines and other essential items for your child.

A very important point to remember is that at any point and time rule for carry-on can change. So please check with the airline you are planning you trip with.