Brought to you by: The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)
Guide to Airport Security
The challenges of air travel and airport security shouldn’t scare you. We will ease your way through airport security — often the most time-consuming part of your journey.
Airport security regulations
Whether you are checking your luggage or doing carry-on baggage, here are few rules to follow.
Carry-on Luggage
Electronics – You will be asked to remove electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. Examples include laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles.
Only carry liquids, aerosols, and gels in three-ounce containers. If you pack loose lithium batteries (used in digital cameras, cell phones, PDAs, and laptops) – only 8 grams (100-watt hours) of lithium batteries are allowed in your carry-on baggage. And they must be adequately protected in original packaging or a protective case.
Guide to airport security
Checking in Luggage
Locks – Choose TSA friendly locks, if bags can’t be open you may lose your lock during an inspection.
Weight allowance – Check the rules for weight and size allowance. (visit www.TSA.gov for the official list of prohibited items).
Prevent unintentional short-circuiting and fires, and batteries must be installed in the devices.
Pack Smart
Your travel advisor knows the different airline security regulations; for most airlines, maximum size of any carry-on is 45 linear inches (example bag = is 20x10x9”). Save yourself the hassle by checking anything larger and pack your carry-on as light as possible.
Tips for packing light
Layout your packing items, be selective about what you need. Instead of 5 pairs of pants, think about only bringing 2.
Re-wear outfits, hotels provide laundry service.
Where possible, roll your clothes. The more efficiently you pack, the lighter your suitcase.
Remember, it will be with you through all flights and transfers.
Join Trusted Traveller programs
For frequent flyers, it’s beneficial to sign up for a Trusted Traveller program. There are several programs offered by Transportation Services Agency (TSA) including
TSA Precheck (TSA Pre✓®)
Cost: USD $85 and TSA Pre✓® saves time and stress during domestic travel.
Apply Online – The online application can be completed in 5 minutes or less, and schedule an appointment at the enrolment center. (Note some travel agencies provide this service in-house).
Enroll – Attend an in-person appointment to provide fingerprints, supply citizenship, and Identification documents.
Enjoy TSA Pre✓® – Once approved, add your Known Traveller Number to your airline reservations and enjoy a 5-year membership. See the list of participating airlines. www.tsa.gov/precheck/participating-airlines
Benefits
No removal of shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets
Expedited security screening
Enjoy benefits at more than 200 airports within the U.S. on 60 airlines
Children under 12 may accompany a parent/guardian with TSA Pre✓® in the designated lanes.
Global Entry
Cost USD $100 and includes ease of entry into the U.S. from International Destinations.