Airport Security Made Simple

By: maxine greco


Following a few simple rules will help you on your way through airport security quickly and efficiently. Begin by knowing the airline regulations for the particular airline you're flying. Most airlines allow a carryon bag and a personal bag. Carryons usually must be no larger than 45" measuring the height, length and width. Some of the airlines also have a weight restriction on the carryon bag. Be sure to check with the airline you're using before you get to the airport. The personal bag can be a camera case, a handbag or tote, a briefcase or a laptop case. It should also be able to fit under the seat if you have another carryon, because there is not always room for two pieces in the overhead compartments. Most of the lightweight luggage available today has a matching tote bag that will fit on top of the carryon bag for ease in wheeling through the airport. That will comprise your two pieces. You usually cannot take a third bag no matter how small unless it will fit inside one of the carry bags. Wheeled carryons are the easiest way to go because of the time spent pre-boarding at the airport terminal. Even lightweight bags start to feel heavy when you're walking a great distance to get to your gate. Many of the personal bags are now also available with wheels. These will usually fit on top of the carryon bag so you will not have to wheel two separate pieces through the airport.

If you are taking a laptop case, you'll need to remove it from your carry bag and send it through security separately. There are laptop sleeves, which will protect the laptop as it goes through the conveyer belt. These are just for added protection and will still enable your laptop to fit inside the laptop case. These sleeves are popular as corporate gifts and can be individually monogrammed with initials or a company name or logo. The new airline regulations also restrict the amount of liquids or gels you can take onto a plane. All liquids carried on must be in a clear, zippered one quart sized bag and the containers inside must be three ounces or less. Several manufacturers have this 3-1-1 case available with the correct size containers included. You can fill the bottles or spray containers with your own shampoo, mouthwash, etc. The bottles can be reused for each trip. This 3-1-1 case must also be removed from your carryon and sent through security separately.

Take into consideration what you will be wearing when you have to go through airport security. Metal objects need to be removed, or you will set off the alarms and hold everyone else up in line. Belts with buckles will need to be removed. Small earrings or rings can be left on, but larger pieces of jewelry and most watches must be removed. Shoes must also be removed and sent through security separately. You cannot wear a jacket, sweater or coat and that must also be removed and sent through security. Change in your pocket and your wallet will need to be put in your carry bag. Keys will also need to be removed and placed in your carry bag. If you have any type of surgery that has used metal pins in your body, carry a doctor's note for expediency.

Pack your carry on and personal bag neatly and efficiently. Do not overstuff the bag. Security may decide to go through your bag, and it will be harder to re-pack if you already have too much in the case. Packing cubes are a great idea for small objects and underwear. It makes re-packing quick and easy, and keeps security from having to go through each and every item of personal clothing. You'll find these cubes to be a lifesaver when packing your discount luggage to go through security. The cubes are available in a huge array of sizes to organize your case to the maximum. You don't want your entire belongings on display should it be chosen by security to be personally checked. Follow these simple rules and have a safe trip!


Maxine Greco has been in the luggage and travel business for over 38 years. She is currently working at Village Luggage and Gifts.