Get through airport security without any issues!
If you’re not a very frequent flyer, airport security rules can seem very confusing. Especially the rules set up by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can feel overwhelming. But with these tips, you will be able to get through security without any issues.
What not to bring
If you want to avoid any issues with security at the airport (and get to your gate on time), it is important to know what you shouldn’t bring in your carry-on bag.
- Liquids: if you’re carrying liquids, they have to be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less. And all of your containers all have to fit into a clear zip-lock bag. If your items don’t fit into a zip-lock bag or they’re bigger than 3.4 ounces, you have to put them in your checked bag. This goes for e-liquids too.
- Sporting goods: you can not bring golf clubs, baseball bats or ski poles in your carry-on luggage. Some items are allowed but sometimes it might be better to be safe than sorry. So, put these items in your checked baggage instead. Just to avoid any issues and delays.
- Sharp objects: even though there are some exceptions to this rule, if you have checked baggage, you might just want to put any sharp object in there. If you don’t have any checked luggage, then remember that almost all knives, picks, razor blades, etc. are not allowed in your carry-on luggage.
- Candles: there are some types of candles that you’re not allowed to bring on a flight. Gel-type candles have to be in your checked luggage if you want to bring them on your flight.
- Weapons and self-defense items: pepper spray, guns, martial-arts weapons and bear spray isn’t allowed on your carry-on luggage (that last one isn’t allowed in your checked baggage either).
There are other items that you can not bring on your carry-on ánd your checked luggage. Like flammable items, things that are explosive, or chemicals.
What can you bring?
So, there are a lot of items that you can not bring in your carry-on bag. But what cán you bring?
- “Sharp” items: even though most sharp items can’t be in your carry-on bag, there are some less-sharp items that you’re allowed to bring. Like nail clippers, small scissors, butter knives, knitting needles or small screwdrivers and other tools (as long as their less than 7 inches long).
- Lighter and matches: you’re allowed to have a lighter with you in your carry-on bag. That goes for one book of safety matches too (these aren’t allowed in your checked bag).
- Gifts: you can bring gifts on your flight. But keep in mind that the TSA will probably unwrap the gift to check it’s contents. So, if you have to get through security fast; don’t wrap your gifts before the flight.
- Vapes or electronic cigarettes: these can not be in your checked bag. So, you have to bring them with you in your carry-on.
- Razors: if you have disposable razors or an electrical razor, you’re allowed to bring it in your carry-on bag. Razor blades need to be in your checked bag.
To save time
- Electronics: if you want to save time going through security, you should bring small electronic items like a phone or tablet. If you bring anything bigger than a standard-size laptop, you’re going to have to remove it from your bag.
- Medication: you can bring your medication or medical equipment in your carry-on bag. Just make sure you declare your items before going through security (this only applies to medical equipment). That will save you some time while trying to get to your gate before boarding.
If you’re unsure whether or not you can bring something, always check with your airline to make sure you won’t run into any issues and delays while trying to make it to your flight on time.
Read more: The 10 Craziest Airplanes Ever To Exist
Source: Real Simple | Image: Unsplash, American Green Travel