The rules for when to arrive at the airport have changed a few times in the last couple of years, and even today the required time of arrival will depend a great deal on the airport you're using. Small local airports tend to be more flexible, and you can arrive fairly close to the time of take-off and still be able to board the plane. However, if the airport is fairly busy or if you're unsure of how early to arrive, please show up at least two hours before your flight to check your bags.
Make sure you know how long it takes to get from your home to the airport. If you're leaving your vehicle there, factor in time to get a parking spot and walk to the terminal as well. Some airlines have policies that allow them to cancel your reservation if you have not checked in and obtained a boarding pass a certain amount of time before take-off. This time is usually twenty minutes to half an hour; make sure to check your airline's policies when planning your schedule.
Checking In and Boarding the Airplane You should expect to wait in line when checking in at the airport. Many airlines offer timetables on their websites that show peak waiting times and how long the wait is expected to be. Don't attempt to arrive late in order to avoid waiting in line. Be patient, particularly if you are checking bags. Allowing yourself plenty of time will reduce the stress of waiting in line and the fear of missing the flight.
You will be asked to remove your shoes during boarding, and you'll also be required to go through a metal detector. Make this process simple by wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off, and minimizing the amount of metal on your clothing. If you're carrying loose change or keys with you, put the items into a small plastic bag so that it's easy to drop them into the security box and walk through the detector, then pick them up again.
Preparing Your Luggage for Travel Plan ahead when packing and preparing your luggage before a flight. Make sure that all bags that will be checked are properly secured and tagged with your personal information. If you're carrying holiday gifts, either in your checked luggage or in your carry-on, please wait until you arrive at your destination to wrap them so that airport security can examine them easily.
Carry-on bags cannot exceed a certain size limit (typically 9x14x22 inches). If your bag is overstuffed or is an unusual shape, it may be rejected, even if it technically falls within the size limits. For best results and to minimize stress, choose the smallest carry-on bag possible that still holds everything you need. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag, plus one "personal item" such as a purse or briefcase. Check with your airline if you're unsure of the regulations.
There are many items prohibited from carry-on luggage, and with the rules changing in recent times many people are not aware of all of the restrictions. The following are some current guidelines for carry-on luggage from flights in the United States.
Liquids, aerosols and gels must be in containers that are three ounces or smaller in size. The containers must be sealed into one-quart clear plastic bags. This rule applies to any liquid, aerosol or gel-- from toothpaste to strawberry jam, from deodorant to pop or juice. Containers larger than three ounces that are half-full are not allowed. The items must be put onto the conveyer belt for screening during the boarding process. If you need larger amounts of these products, they must be checked with the rest of your luggage. Exceptions to this rule are breast milk, prescription or over-the-counter medications, and items used for medicinal purposes such as nutrition gels for disabled passengers. Present these items for separate inspection at the screening area.
No knives are allowed, with the exception of rounded tip or butter knives. Pocket knives, Swiss Army knives, and keychain knives will be confiscated. Most sharp objects, in fact, are prohibited, with the exceptions of shaving razors, knitting needles, and small scissors, which are still allowed. Avoid bringing box cutters or razor-type blades.
Common sporting goods items are also not allowed as carry-ons. This list includes baseball bats, golf clubs, or hockey sticks. Most tools are prohibited, as well as items such anything flammable or explosive (this includes cigarette lighters and matches).
If you're unsure whether or not a specific item is allowed, please check with your airline before packing it and bringing it to the airport. If the item is not allowed on board, you will have it confiscated. Simply leaving the item at home, or packing it in your checked luggage, will avoid this problem, so it's extremely important to learn the restrictions beforehand.
Do keep in mind that the regulations at the airport are designed to keep you safe, and the employees there are protecting you by prohibiting certain items on board. Be pleasant and cooperative and the experience will be much less stressful for everyone involved.
The other important thing to remember when traveling by air is to have all necessary paperwork with you at all times. You should have at least one form of identification-- a driver's license or photo ID is best-- and all of your boarding information and passes. International travel requires a current passport. If you're traveling with small children, have their birth certificates on hand-- some airlines require validation of the child's age before allowing them to travel. Small infants may need a medical release form in order to fly. Again, check with your airline if you're unsure of what you're required to bring.
Remember that the process of airline travel can be made considerably easier by following the regulations and knowing what to expect. Arriving with your items properly packed, having everything you need in hand, and allowing yourself plenty of time will make traveling much easier for you as well as the other passengers and the airline employees. Airline travel can be stressful -- but it's important to remember that for the informed traveler, it doesn't have to be.
