I don’t know anyone who enjoys going through airport security and certainly no one likes being delayed because a fellow traveler forgot to take off their shoes or put their cell phone in the plastic bin before the required X-ray sweep. Knowing the rules and regulations before we travel can help the process run much more smoothly. Chances are you already know the basic regulations promulgated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regarding the removal of shoes and jackets and the placement of all metal objects in the trays, along with any carry-on liquids of 3.4 ounces or less contained in a clear plastic bag. So, in this post, I’ll only focus on some lesser-known rules for air travel in the US that will help us all travel like pros.
Let's start with film. That’s right, film. Today, the old film cameras of a bygone era are more expensive than some of the full-frame DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras. And, a growing number of portrait and wedding photographers are now offering film photography as part of their packages. Since there’s no immediate preview of the photograph just taken, film will eventually reveal a photographer’s real knowledge, experience and creativity. Why are we talking about film here? Because film cameras have made a huge comeback and the perfect time to use one is while traveling. Unfortunately, many travelers have complained about their undeveloped film being ruined during the TSA screening process because officers either opened it or put it through the X-ray machine. To avoid ruining your camera film and losing precious photographs, request a physical inspection of the film at the beginning of the screening process. Notify nearby officers at the security checkpoint before your items go through the belt and they'll provide assistance.
Heading home with a snack or some cookies after a vacation or visiting with friends or relatives? The TSA permits solid food in carry-on bags. The executive agency states that any non-solid foods must be placed in a sealed container and then into quart-sized bags, thereby following the liquid requirements. The rules for food in carry-ons have been relaxed over the years and passengers are now permitted to bring almost any type of non-perishable food through the security checkpoint. But remember, all food must undergo X-ray screening. For details on amounts and restrictions, visit the food section on the TSA’s Web site.
Everywhere we look, we see green. Every day, the green movement influences the way more Americans live. Whether businesses and other organizations are responding to Americans' interest and demand for greener products and practices, or if it's Hollywood, the media, politicians or other opinion leaders that are driving the green movement, the reality is that green talk is everywhere, including utensils. Since plastic utensils account for an enormous amount of waste (nearly forty billion of them are used every year in the US alone), things are changing. Thanks to the “Go Green” movement, many people are opting for reusable eating utensils rather than plastic forks, knives, and spoons. Don't worry about taking these travel-friendly utensils in your carry-on for hassle-free dining. The TSA permits round-bladed butter knives and forks on the plane. So, staying eco-friendly while in the skies has never been easier.
Have you ever packed your medication before a flight and then wondered if you needed to be sure it was in the original bottle? The TSA makes bringing medications onboard easy. You can pack as much as you need in your checked or carry-on luggage as long as it goes through proper screening. What about those liquid medications? They're allowed in carry-on bags in excess of the usual 3.4 ounces but only in reasonable quantities for the flight and you don't have to place them in a zip-lock bag. But, you must tell the officer you're carrying medically-necessary liquids at the beginning of the screening process. Be aware these will be subject to additional screening that could include your being asked to open the container. It's also important to note that some states have laws requiring prescription labels on medications, so make sure to check that out before traveling.
According to the TSA, anything that pours, pumps, spreads, squeezes, smears, sprays, or spills is technically considered to be a liquid and must follow the 3.4 ounces or less rule. Remember this when purchasing souvenirs to take in your carry-on bag. This means that popular items like nut butter, sunscreen, face creams, and perfumes must be under 3.4 ounces even if they are factory-sealed and unopened. If you must travel with such an item, place it in a sealed bag in your checked luggage instead but if you only do carry-on, you’ll have to go without or purchase what you need on arrival at your destination.
What about those snow globes? If you plan to carry a snow globe with you on an airplane trip, please remember that while TSA has "relaxed" snow globe guidelines, they are still very strict about which ones can and cannot go in your carry-on bag. A snow globe larger than a ping pong ball may be confiscated at the security gate. The official language from TSA says, “Snow globes that appear to contain less than 3.4 ounces (approximately tennis-ball size) will be permitted if the entire snow globe, including the base, is able to fit in the same one clear, plastic, quart-sized, resealable bag as the passenger's other liquids, such as shampoo, toothpaste and cosmetics.” What does that mean? It means that the majority of snow globes still don’t follow TSA guidelines. I remember all too well when security officers confiscated our friend’s New York skyline snow globe a few years ago at New York's LaGuardia Airport when it didn’t meet their requirements for carry-on. If you really want to be safe, wrap your snow globe carefully, tuck it in your suitcase and then check your luggage. I’d also recommend placing the globe in a sealed plastic bag first, then cushioning it on all sides before placing it in your luggage.
Here’s some good news for travelers who like to dress up. Taking your jewelry off when you go through the TSA checkpoint is a waste of time. The TSA actually prefers you leave your diamonds and other expensive jewelry on at the security checkpoint. This prevents costly or delicate items like necklaces, rings or earrings from being lost or stolen from the bottom of those large, plastic trays during the screening process. Doing this will also save the TSA some time and will keep your valuables safe. If your jewelry item is exceptionally large or contains a good bit of metal, you might be asked to take it off, but in most instances, you'll be fine to wear it through the X-ray machine.
Finally, if you're a plant enthusiast or traveling with one as a gift, there's no need to mail it and pay for shipping because the TSA permits plants on planes. As long as your plant fits neatly into the overhead bin or underneath your seat, you can fly with it. So yes, you can buy a cactus at the airport gift shop in Arizona. However, before you fly, check your state regulations to make sure you aren't bringing a prohibited plant across state borders. There can occasionally be restrictions due to specific insects or plant diseases. For example, the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) prohibits or restricts the entry of many agricultural products from Hawaii into the US mainland, including most fresh fruits and vegetables and certain types of plants and flowers. That’s because these items could harbor a dangerous stowaway, an invasive pest or disease.
Until next time...safe travels.
Interesting article - maybe next time we buy a snowglobe I will have it converted so it can be worn as a ring !!! 😄