Last updated : Thursday, January 7, 2010

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3 Tips to Help You Through Airport Security

In the aftermath of the recent Christmas Day terrorist threat, airport security has been heightened to new levels and many travelers are experiencing long delays and added stress. So what can you expect at the airport and how can you speed up the process? iMag put together a list of helpful tips to ease your worries and improve your airport experience.  

1. Be Prepared:

Know what you can and cannot put in your carry-on bag. It saves time and confusion to pack the correct way. Only bring carry-on liquids that are up to 3.4 ounces and seal them in a clear quart-size zip lock bag. Also do not carry on any weapons, or anything that could be considered a weapon. If you have further questions or concerns, contact your flight provider. 

When flying internationally expect higher security measures on your way into the United States. There are 14 countries that have been put on a “countries of interest” list.  These countries include: Cuba, Iran, Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, Algeria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and Yemen. Passengers are picked at random to go through intense screenings that consist of a full body scanning, an in depth look through carry-on luggage, and detection for explosives. Although these security measures have been in effect before, the TSA is taking it to another level and screening more passengers more thoroughly.

2. Be Prompt: 

Arrive at the airport with enough time to get your bags checked, get through security and make it to your terminal. Most airlines suggest arriving two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This is all depending on if you have to check a bag, get your ticket, and get through security. Even if you don’t have a bag to check, the lines to check in for your flight can be very long, so plan accordingly. You may end up waiting around for your plane to board, but in this situation, it is definitely better to be safe than sorry.  

3. Be Patient: 

With the increase in random screenings, it may feel like you're in bumper to bumper traffic, but it's not the airport/fellow flyers' fault you are stuck waiting in line to get through security.  Everyone is going through the same thing you are; bring crossword puzzles or a good book to read.  The easier you make it for them, the easier they’ll make it for you. 

For information on new airport safety regulations visit the TSA Web site. 

Now that you're prepared for the airport, get ready for the rest of your trip by visiting the Travel section of iMag.

 

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