Tips for People Who Fly

If you are a first time flyer, I have some tips that could save you a lot of hassle, money, and time. With the ever-changing rules of the TSA, some of these may not apply, depending upon when you are reading this.

First, and most importantly, you never put anything valuable in your suitcase that is to be stowed. All valuables go in your carry on. The same thing applies if you have anything breakable.

When packing, remember to wear your heaviest items, like jeans, and your running shoes. This saves on baggage fees.

If you are staying at someone's house or even a hotel, don't bring toiletries unless you have special needs like Head and Shoulders shampoo. Hotels provide you with free travel size products, and if you are staying at someone's house, the chances they have soap, toothpaste, and shampoo are pretty good, don't count on them having conditioner, as not everyone likes conditioner.

If you have any metal in your body due to surgery, be sure to carry some paperwork with you as proof. Doing so will help you avoid a strip search.

If you are bringing a laptop, be prepared that it has to be removed from your case for security to examine it.

If your suitcase is black, add something to it that will make it stand out. I have a bright orange buckle on my luggage, and added a white stripe to the sides. When it comes down the belt, I know it's mine. I can't tell you how many times I've flown to see people picking up luggage that isn't theirs because so many of them look alike. This is why it's great to have luggage that has a pattern.

Carry on weight doesn't matter, they care about the size, so don't worry if your carry on weighs more than you think it should. As long as it can handle the weight, pack that baby to the max!

Any prescription medication should be placed in your carry on as well. Narcotics should not be trusted to the TSA.

When packing creams, lotions, or liquids of any kind be sure to place them in storage bags that don't leak, then group them all together in a larger one. This way if one bursts you have a backup to catch the liquid. Nothing is worse than landing, and discovering your clothing has been ruined.

Show up two hours early to your flight to avoid any hassles that may occur.

Get a TSA approved lock for your luggage.

Don't waste your money on Travelers Cheques, as long as you have a VISA, American Express or MasterCard you are safe. Note not every place accepts American Express, or Discover Card, so call ahead and plan wisely.

When traveling to your destination, be sure to pack one outfit in your carry on. This works as padding, as well as an emergency, like if your luggage is lost, or stolen you at least have something to wear. Don't worry about doing this on your way back, as you have clothing at home, only do this if you need to use it as padding.