If only it were that simple.
Long gone are the days when your loved ones could escort you to the tarmac for a tearful good-bye. Instead, you can forget about the little things, like bringing your favorite bottled beverage or wearing those comfy gel insoles. (You heard me right - those are banned too!) But, by following a few of my handy travel tips, you'll be heading to your dream destination in no time!
1.
Know the Rules. Before you begin packing, please refer to the
Transportation Security Administration's website, which includes a list of prohibited items and other regulations. This will save you a lot of time, heartache and money.
2.
Pack it Right. In regards to the 3-1-1 rule, many skin care and cosmetics lines have created travel kits that abide by the specifications necessary to carry on your bag. (Liquids must be three ounces or less and stored in a 1-quart clear plastic zip-top bag. One bag per passenger.)
Sephora.com features these airplane-approved beauty items making it even easier for you to get through security. But, if you can't part with your dermatologist-prescribed moisturizer for even a day, head to
The Container Store and pick up some
Nalgene leakproof plastic bottles. Remember to keep this in your purse or in the top of your carry-on bag so you don't have to rifle around to find it when going through security checkpoints.
Sinkside Six-Pack, $25, sephora.com
Jack Black on the Road Travel Pack, $58, sephora.com
3.
Lock It Up. If you decide to check in your bags, be sure to use a TSA-approved lock so only you and security will have access to them. Also, try to make your bag standout from the inevitable sea of black luggage that will confront you at the carousel. The last thing you want is someone else picking up your bag. Use colorful tags or a simple ribbon to mark your property.
EasyCheck Indicator Lock, $20, brookstone.com
Cherry Dots and Linen Morning Glory luggage tags, $5.50 each, etsy.com
4.
Stay hydrated. If you can't resist having a bottle of water with you on the plane and don't want to fork over $3 in the gift shop, pack your own water bottle in your carry-on bag. Once you've passed security, feel free to fill'er up at the water fountain. Best of all, if you buy any fragile souvenirs like shot glasses or swizzle sticks, you can wrap them in a little newspaper and store them in the bottle on your way home.
SIGG Paradise Found bottle, $20, mysigg.com
Nalgene wide-mouth bottle, $3, campmor.com
5.
Pick Up the Pace. To breeze by security, first place your coat or sweater into a bin along with your shoes, belt and hat. You can shave a few minutes by pre-packing these items into your carry-on and wearing flip-flops or shoes you can easily slide on and off. Then, remove everything from your pockets, including keys and change, and put them into a smaller container. Be sure to hold onto your boarding pass and ID in case security has any questions. Next, remove your toiletries kit and place it into a bin and lay your carry-on luggage onto the conveyer belt facing up so the machines can easily scan your belongings. Last, remove your laptop, video camera and mini DVD player from it's carrying case and place the electronics in one bin and the cases into another. (In regards to iPods or other equipment, when in doubt, keep it out.) And, don't forget to keep a close eye on your belongings. A new iPod or laptop can be quite tempting to your fellow travelers!
Champion Chatham Strap Mini, $40, keds.com
Classic Leather Slip-on, $50, vans.com
