Experts advise traveling light
Q. Any advice for making it through the security checkpoint under the new restrictions?
A. According to Peter Shankman, CEO of AirTroductions.com, who flies about four times a week, pack as lightly as possible. If you can live without it from the time you leave your home to the time you get to your hotel, send it FedEx. Forget the designer carry-on bag, bring something that opens wide and very quickly and clean it out before packing.
Pauline Frommer, of Pauline Frommer’s Travel Guides, advises passengers to bring a big clear sealable bag to the airport just in case security makes you check your carry-on luggage, then you will have a bag to place small personal items inside to take onboard the plane.
Q. What if I purchase a beverage after the security checkpoint but prior to boarding?
A. No liquids are permitted on board. According to the United Airlines Web site: Any beverages purchased in the boarding area (beyond the security checkpoint) must be consumed before boarding, as they will not be permitted on board the aircraft.
Q. What about liquid eyeliner and similar items?
A. If you are in doubt about an item, please leave it at home or place in your checked baggage, or the item may be intercepted at the security checkpoint.
Q. Are laptops and other electronic devices allowed on-board?
A. For domestic travel, the TSA continues to allow laptop computers, cell phones and other electronic items. But Shankman advises that if you could do without carrying an electronic device on board, check it inside your luggage to avoid security delays when electronics must be inspected.
Q. What about travel to Britain?
A. The restrictions are far more extensive. For example, all carry-on luggage must be checked and passengers may take only a few items, such as travel documents, in a single plastic bag. No electrical or battery-powered items including laptops, mobile phones, iPods, remote controls, etc., can be carried in the cabin and must be checked as baggage.
Q. If I am bringing my laptop, cell phone and other items, what is the best way to organize them?
A. Peter Frank, editor in chief of Concierge.com, advises to have one carry-on bag for all your electronics so that security doesn’t need to dig deep into various bags to inspect any of these items. Also, he said, designate a spot for your ticket and passport so that they are easily accessed at several checkpoints.
Q. Any advice for parents traveling with children?
A. There is not going to be a lot of water available on flights, so bring sucking candies, Frank said. And for really young kids, bring pacifiers. Frommer suggests carrying a collapsible cup that the flight attendant can fill. It’s important to keep the children hydrated, she said.