Making the Most Out of Your Next Flight

If you are planning on taking a vacation this year, to make the most out of your trip, by following these simple steps you’ll ensure that your journey will be as good and hassle free as possible.

Of course you’ll be planning your vacation however by having a bad experience at the airport or aboard your plane can spoil even the best made plans.  To prevent this from happening you only need to follow these rules…

Air Travel Rules: First of all, in order to make the most out of your flight, familiarize yourself with the air travel rules.  The best way to do this is to note the items that are prohibited in airports and aboard planes. With the crack-down on prohibited items, many people are unaware that what they carry aboard their carry-on luggage may actually be prohibited.  If you bring prohibited items aboard an airplane, this could lead to your items being confiscated, a flight being missed, detaining by airport security, and, yes, even in some cases, being arrested.

It is a very simple matter for you to learn what items are and aren’t allowed aboard a plane.  Just review the restrictions that your airport/s and airlines have.  Contact the airline or airport or visit their online websites.  You’ll probably discover that items banned are more numerous than you’d thought.  These items include many liquids (including water), sharp objects (including nail clippers and knitting needles), most sports equipment and, of course, flammable items.  You can also determine if any items you plan on carrying can be stored in your checked luggage.

The Airport Screening Process:  In addition to familiarizing yourself with prohibited items, it’s also important to be aware of the airport security checkpoints and the airport screening process.  As airports become more and more crowded, it seems like more and more problems arise.  Therefore, for a domestic flight it’s recommended that you arrive at least two hours prior to departure and for international flights, double the time to four hours.  Different airports do have different flights and are different sizes so check in advance as far as what your airport recommends.

Arrive on time.  This can make all the difference between a smooth flight (and the start of a great vacation) and an airport nightmare story.  Although waiting around an airport is not the most fun, an even worse time is the panic you feel when you are rushing to make your flight.  If you arrive on time, or even early, the worst thing is that you’ll have to wait, however, if you arrive at the airport early.  Just bring a book or magazine and find a chair at the gate.  Due to overbooking, many times all the chairs are filled early, so this is also important…you don’t want to have to stand or sit on the floor.

Cooperate.  This is basically “it” in a nutshell.  Make sure that you cooperate with airport officials, airline employees and especially airport security.  If, for instance, a banned item is discovered in your luggage, acknowledge the mistake and continue on.  The item will probably be confiscated but if you make a fuss, you could be detained by airport security and even miss your flight.

All in all, if you follow these 4 simple rules, your flight and your time in the airport will be much easier.

International Airports versus Domestic Airports

More and more Americans are becoming first time flyers every year.  As exciting as this can be there is a disadvantage.  This can be an overwhelming and frustrating experience as they try to understand the airline rules, the security or airport rules of domestic versus international travel.  By becoming familiar with international airports and their differences in advance you will be able to reach your destination with the least amount of trouble.

The two main types of airports in the United States are, domestic and international.  A confusing fact is that while only certain airports are considered international, most all can be considered domestic.

Domestic airports are simply airports that are in the US and have flights from one city to another or to and from other states.  The planes never leave American soil so the flights meet the definition of domestic only.  Many of these domestic only airports are quite small to moderate in size, with a majority of their terminals connecting to each other.  Travel between gates and terminals in these airports is usually quick and without too much travel time required.

Internationl airports are ones that offer flights from the United States to other foreign countries.  While most will be labeled as international, they will most likely handle domestic flights as well.  Many international airports are quite large due to the amount of domestic and international traffic they handle.

The size of an international airport can be daunting to a first time traveler.  Many have multiple terminials, hundreds of gates, and some even have shuttles, or trains between the terminals to help move passengers from here to there.

The major similarities between most international and domestic airports are their security screening and baggage.  Airport security concerns have caused the airlines to impose some very strict rules about items that may be carried aboard the aircraft and what items will be screened.  A little research ahead of time with your airline will yield the exact rules regarding banned items and the allowed travel sizes for items allowed onboard the aircraft.  Transferring through security can be fairly simple, if you follow the security personnel’s directions.  Allow ample time in your schedule to allow you to go through security as you may find that all airline passengers will be subject to the same security screening point.

Flying either domestic or international can be a fairly painless process now that you know the differences and similarities.  Now you can move with the seasoned travelers through the airport and security checkpoints effortlessly and be able to enjoy your chosen destination.

Common International Air Travel Rules

Each day many people in the United States travel overseas or to a foreign country.  International travel increases in popularity for many reasons and, as international travel becomes more affordable, it is likely to continue.  If you have decided that you would like to visit a foreign country, it’s important, especially since 9/11, that you become familiar with international air travel rules.

A common misconception that many people who are unfamiliar with international air travel rules make is that they assume that the rules for international travel are the same as for domestic.  This simply is not true.  While the rules are similar, it’s important that you learn and familiarize yourself with the international air travel rules also.

The first thing that someone traveling internationally needs to familiarize themselves with is the airport screening process.  All airports require that prior to boarding you go past a security checkpoint and screening.  The screening includes an examination of your personal belonging as well as you passing through a metal detector.  The airlines now are required to check for explosive, illegal and flammable items.

Sometimes passengers are co-mingled on domestic as well as international flights so the passenger screening process is the same.

When going through the security checkpoint, passengers need to remove their shoes as well as any accessories which may set off metal detectors.  Your shoes and other items are sent through an x-ray machine to ensure that they are not dangerous.

There is a difference when an international traveler first checks in.  Passengers need to register themselves at the airline counter and luggage is examined and processed.  Domestic passengers are required to show a picture id in the form of an ID card or driver’s license however, if you’re traveling internationally, you’re requested to show additional identification in the form of a passport.  Additional ID may also be required depending on where you are traveling.  This may include your birth certificate or visa.

When you are traveling internationally, it’s important to make sure that you check in advance of your trip – if in doubt, check with the airport or your airline to verify that your trip will be a smooth and hassle free one.

Airport Security Checkpoints

Recent years, airport rules have changed.  If you’re planning on flying, you need to be familiar with the rules in order to be safe as well as eliminate long delays.  Although many of the changes have occurred at airport security checkpoints, some take place in baggage claim and curbside check in.  If you are going to catch a flight, it is important that you that you familiarize yourself with any new air travel rules, especially the ones that are enforced at airport security checkpoints.

Although many passengers think of one checkpoint, in reality there are actually three.  The first checkpoint is when you check in.  At this time you check your luggage and show the proper forms of identification. These items most commonly include a passport, driver’s license or a government issued identification card.

Once you’ve received your boarding pass, and checked in your baggage you’ll make your way past the main airport security checkpoint. This point is where you’re required to have your carry on luggage scanned by an x-ray machine. Prior to the checkpoint, you’ll need to make put all your liquid in plastic bags and take no more than 3 oz per bottle.  Anymore than 3 oz and your lotions, water, shampoo, makeup, etc. will be confiscated and thrown away.

You also will need to walk through a metal detector.  Currently all air travelers, with the exception of those with a disability or hindering medical condition, are required to remove their shoes. Your shoes will be x-rayed, along with the rest of your carryon luggage.  If you are carrying a laptop or other electronic devices, you’ll be required to turn it on so it’s checked.

Familiarize yourself, prior to flying, with any banned items, including items that are only prohibited from your carryon luggage.  If you are found carrying a prohibited item, certain steps will be taken. Depending on the item in question, you may be required to return the item to you car, discard it or turn it over to airport security.  The best way to deal with this is to leave all prohibited items at home.

If you are traveling during a busy time, going through the security checkpoint may take an hour or longer.  Be prepared to wait and leave plenty of time ahead of your flight.  There is no rushing or shortcuts through airport security checkpoints.

Once you have been cleared at the main security checkpoint, you’ll go through one more security checkpoint; the final step before boarding. When entering the airport terminal, after your airline as granted permission for passengers to board, you will need to present airline officials with the appropriate boarding pass.  Occasionally you may need to show your identification again; however, it isn’t usually necessary. Most travelers can easily board their flight. That’s why you should stay calm during all airport checkpoints, including the final boarding stage.

By following these simple steps, it will ensure that your next flight is pleasant and uneventful.  Knowing these rules in advance, including the screening process, will ensure that you are able to board your plane and make it to your intended destination without incident.

Air Travel For Those With a Disability

Air Travel Rules:  Are They Different For Those With a Disability?

If you plan to fly and you or someone you’re traveling with has a disability, there are a number of different considerations and preparations.  This preparation includes packing your bags for your trip, but it is also includes familiarizing yourself with air travel rules. Although most of the rules are the same, some rules differ for those who have a medical condition or a disability.

The first step in preparing to travel is to alert the airline.  When you make your reservation, inform the airline of any disability or medical condition that you may have. Although this is not required, it may be a good idea, especially if you are traveling with medical equipment.  Extra accommodations will need to be made for while passing through airport security checkpoints, with wheelchairs or mobility scooters.  Learning what you will need to do with these items, ahead of time, is a great way to make your travel plans run as smoothly as possible.

It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airport screening process.  All travelers, whether disabled or not, need to pass through medical detectors. If you or someone who you know is traveling with medical equipment that will activate the alarms, it’s likely that they’ll be pulled aside for additional screening. This screening should only take a couple of minutes, it will be handled a trained professional who will show compassion when handling someone with a disability.

Unlike most other fliers, who are required to remove their shoes, those with a disability can leave their shoes on.  However, it is important to note that you may be subject to additional screening.  To prevent this additional screening from occurring, you are advised to remove your shoes, if at all possible. If you are unable to, it’s not a big deal since the additional screening often requires just a quick swipe of a metal detector wand.

Most airports have made special arrangements and exceptions for those who with medical conditions, especially if medication is required at a specific time.  For those with medical conditions, they are allowed to keep their medication but are advised to keep the dosages in small amounts.  Due to the current ban on liquids, it is important to have the proper medical identification. This means that you should keep your medication in the original package, with your name clearly marked.  To be allowed through the security checkpoint, the name on the ticket will have to match the name of the prescription bottle. If it does not, there is an excellent possibility that your medication will be confiscated.

By keeping these points in mind, those who may have a medical condition or a disability, should be able to avoid unwanted trouble.  If you’re unsure about a particular screening procedure or have any other questions, contact the airline or the airport prior to your flight.  Planning ahead is the best way to make your next flight a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Air Travel Clothing

Air Travel:  Is the Clothing You Wear Important

When it comes to air travel and clothing, we are all different. Some travelers dress in business suits, others in jeans, and others who wear something as comfortable as possible, such as their sweats or even pajamas. With the increase in airport security and the changes in air travel rules, some people wonder if the clothing they wear is important. In most cases, it is not.

Ever since airplanes became a popular way to travel, there has been a focus on comfort. Whether or not you will be taking a long or a short flight, you want to be comfortable. There’s nothing worse than wearing an itchy sweater or tight pair of pants while flying. Unless you bring a change of clothes with you and place them in your carryon bag, you are out of luck. That’s why it’s important to think ahead about what you’ll be wearing before you leave for the airport. Even if you are traveling for business, you might want to change into your business clothes as soon as you arrive.

When it comes to comfort, many travelers might want to wear sweat pants and a comfortable top. In addition to being comfortable, many times, this type of clothing is best for airport security, especially when entering airport screening checkpoints. This is because most sweat pants do not have any metal in them. Essentially, this means that you should be able to enter the security checkpoint and leave it quicker than most other travelers, such as the travelers who are wearing metal.

When it comes to clothing, there are a number of different items that set off airport metal detectors. That is why you are requested to remove all of your jewelry. As you remove your jewelry, you’ll place it in a small bin, which is scanned right along with your carry-on luggage. If you have rings or a necklace, remove them, if you can. For your convenience, you can leave your earrings on. If your earrings set the metal detectors off, you will likely be pulled a side and airport security should easily tell whether or not your earrings set off the alarm.

In addition to jewelry, your belt might set off an airport’s metal detector. Because of that, many airports request that you remove your belt prior to entering the metal detectors. Since many people wear belts, this will speed up the process of checking each and every passenger. If you do not wish to remove your jewelry or belt, simply leave those items at home.

Recently, new air travel rules have been implemented. One rule requires that all passengers remove their shoes. Your shoes, will be scanned by an x-ray machine, right along with the rest of your carry-on luggage. Prior to 9/11, only random passengers were asked to remove their shoes, but now everyone is required to therefore, wear simple shoes that you can easily remove and put back on.

Another air travel rule, recently implemented, is liquids. This means that travelers are no longer allowed to carry more than 3 oz of liquid through the check point, although once through, they can purchase bottled water or drinks in the airport area. You are also prohibited from placing liquid beauty supplies in your carryon luggage. One concern, made by many women is the allowance of gel or water filled bras. Currently, you are allowed to wear these types of bras onboard an airplane. (Honestly, unless you mention it to airport security, there is a good chance that they would never even know.)

Since there are really no rules or restrictions on the clothing that you can wear, you need to choose for yourself. Fashionable or comfortable, it is all up to you.