Air Travel Packing

While airline passengers have always been subject to the same security procedures as travelers entering the U.S. by automobile, train or other carriers, the events of September 11, 2001 have caused a major change in airport screening procedures. Careful screening can delay passengers as agents check carry-on items as well as checked baggage.

Air Travel Procedures and U.S. Customs

You can''t avoid the delays of airport security because people in line ahead of you can delay your progress. Plan to arrive well ahead of your departure time. Security checks and baggage screening can take up to two hours, particularly if the country has been placed under orange or red alert.

Packing for Air Travel

Keep in mind that any item that can be used as a weapon is prohibited on board airplanes. Resist the urge to taunt security personnel with comments like, "I don''t think I could hijack an airplane with nail clippers!" In fact, simple items like cardboard cutters may have been used to commandeer one of the 9/11 flights. Below are a few more pointers when packing for air travel:

• Nail files and other sharp metal objects should be packed in the luggage you plan to take as checked baggage. That includes most jewelry (except watches), shoes with steel toes or shanks, metal buttons, hair clips, and keys.
• Be aware that lighters, loose change and metal clips on clothing set off metal detectors. Electronic items must be checked closely and you''ll be expected to fire up your PDA or computer if you plan to take it through security checkpoints. If you have surgical steel implants, plan ahead to bring a doctor''s note.<
• Observe the baggage limits for carry-on luggage. Size and weight restrictions are strictly enforced. You''re allowed one carry-on bag, in addition to a personal item such as a handbag, computer bag or briefcase.
• Film and cameras should be packed in your carry-on bag as the screening devices for checked baggage can ruin your film.
• Assume that your personal items will be scrutinized and may be removed from your bags. While agents aren''t likely to spread out your soiled laundry, be prepared to repack your bags if they''re emptied out for some reason. Don''t pack your bags too full, or repacking may turn into an ordeal.
• If you have gifts for friends and family, don''t gift-wrap them, as you may have to unwrap them for inspection.
• If you have to carry syringes or special medications, carry medical documentation that agents can inspect.
• Liquids, gels, lotions or similar items - in containers of 3.4 ounces/100 ml or less - must fit in a single quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag if in carry-on luggage.

Prohibited Items

Don''t think that items you pack in checked baggage will escape scrutiny. With the new regulations, every passenger has to accompany his bags through initial screening, then undergo personal screening that includes carry-on luggage. You''ll also be asked to show ID and your boarding pass.

Items that you can''t take aboard an airplane include:

• firearms
• explosive materials
• flammable items (lighter fluid, strike-anywhere matches)
• disabling chemicals such as chlorine, liquid bleach, spray paint or tear gas.

If you''re in doubt about any item, check with U.S. Customs before you start packing.