It's not always over the river and through the woods to grandma's house. For many families nationwide, getting to grandma's involves boarding a plane.
For many, the holidays may be the only time of year they set foot in the airport. So here is a refresher on the rules and some tips for a hassle free journey.
Before Packing
- Remember 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids: 3oz or less bottles of liquids; 1 quart, clear plastic bag; 1 per passenger.
--Larger liquids such as breast milk, baby formula and medications can be declared at inspections.
- Check the TSA.gov website for prohibited items
When Packing
- Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.) (Pack For Security)
- Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for easy accessibility.
--(attach a card with contact info to large electronics)
- Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in the front pocket of your carry-on for easy accessibility
- Limit carry-on items: each traveler is allowed to take one bag and one personal item, such as a purse or briefcase, through the security checkpoint.
- Place all your valuables in your carry-on bags.
- Leave all gifts unwrapped
When Should I Get To The Airport?
Factors to consider: What day are you traveling? How busy is the airport? Do you have kids that may slow things down? Do you have to go through customs?
- The general rule of thumb is: 1 hour before for domestic flights / 2 hours before for international.
- Allow extra time during peak travel times: Early morning hours from 5am-8am and early evening from 3pm-7pm.
- Check your FLIGHT STATUS before you leave to make sure everything is still on schedule.
Going Through Security
- Have your 3-1-1 bag easily accessible, preferably in your hand as you approach the screener.
- Remove your coat and any metal objects, including keys, cell phones, watches, etc.
- Be ready to remove your shoes when you go through the metal detector. (Passengers 12 and under are now able to leave their shoes on when going through security)
- Keep boarding passes and photo IDs out and visible
Navigating Airports
- If you find yourself wandering through the airport searching for the best restauant, worry no more as there is an app to help you on your travels, called iFly.
- The app is based on the website iFly.com's guides to nearly 700 airports and includes restrooms, restaurants, and retail stores.
Tips For Families
- Allow extra time for the security screening process when traveling with small children
- Remove babies and children from their infant carriers and strollers before proceeding through the metal detector
- Place all child-related luggage and equipment on the e-ray machine
- Make arrangements for children traveling alone. Only ticketed passengers are permitted past security checkpoint; however, arrangements may be made for non-travelers to accompany children. Contact your airline to make arrangements.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA), PTI, RDU