Air Travel Tips & Tools
Since the events of September 11, 2001, the importance of air travel security and safety has become a matter of prime importance. Understanding and complying with the rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Transportation website and the Federal Aviation Administration website can make your air travel much easier and hassle-free.
What to Expect
Arriving at the Airport
- Check with your airline either the morning of or evening prior to your flight to ensure there have been no time or schedule changes.
- Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your flight's departure. If you are traveling with children or disabled persons, allow additional time.
- Since curbside parking is often limited, try to use public transportation to the airport.
- If you plan to use curbside check-in, call the airport or your airline to ensure they offer this service.
- Never leave your car at the front of the terminal unattended; security may have it towed away.
- Tip the porter $1 or more, if your bags are heavy.
- Tip the skycap $1 or more, if your bags are heavy; an optional $1-2 extra for curbside check-in
While you are in the Airport
- Never leave your bags or personal items unattended.
- Do not accept gifts, packages or parcels from unknown persons.
- Immediately report to airport security any unattended packages, luggage or cases inside the airport or in the airport parking area.
- Immediately report any suspicious activities within the airport or airport parking area to airport security.
- Do not make jokes about having bombs or firearms in your possession. Do not joke or discuss issues of terrorism, weapons, explosives, or any type of threat while proceeding through the security checkpoint. Security personnel consider such issues to be a real threat and will detain you for questioning.
Check-in Procedures
- All adult passengers are required to possess a government-issued picture ID, such as a driver's license or draft card. If the adult passenger does not own a government-issued ID, he/she must show two forms of ID, one of which must be government-issued.
- If you are traveling out of the United States, ensure you have a current U.S. Passport. Some countries require this for visiting and you must have it to return to the United States. (For additional travel documents, check the U.S. Borders and Customs Protection website for the latest requirements)
- If using an E-ticket, contact your airline ahead of time to ensure you have the required documentation.
- Some airlines that have correct security measures in place, maintain automated kiosks in the airport. Check with your airline to ensure they have this convenience available.
- Be ready to answer questions when you arrive at the check-in desk. Know who packed your bags and never leave them unattended before you check them in. Advise the check-in personnel if you were approached by an unknown person who might have acted suspicious or requested you to carry an item onto the plane.
- Cooperate with check-in personnel if they ask to search your bags. Occasionally the x-ray scanning equipment will not be able to ascertain the contents of your luggage.
- Do not wrap any gifts. If the x-ray cannot scan the item, security will open the package.
Screening Checkpoints
- Once the check-in process is complete, only the ticketed passenger will be permitted to proceed beyond the checkpoint. Exceptions to this restriction are individuals who require a medical assistant or parental escort.
- Only one carry-on piece of luggage and one personal bag (purse, briefcase, etc.) is allowed per individual.
- Any electronic devices (cell phones, lap-tops, etc.) are subject to screening. If requested to do so, provide the device to the screener for additional x-rays or inspection.
While you are Aboard the Aircraft
- Pay close attention to the flight attendant's safety briefing.
- Observe where your closest exit is located.
- Wear your seatbelt while in your seat.
- If you notice any unattended items, report them immediately to the flight attendant.
While Vacationing and Returning Home
- Declare all items you purchased outside of the U.S., even if they were acquired in a duty-free store. The items may be subject to fees and restrictions.
- Use caution when dealing with street merchants. Some of their items may be counterfeit, unsafe or illegal and you may be required to relinquish them to U.S. Customs Agents when you return home.
- Any item purchased either for personal use or as a gift may be free from duty fees. If it is an item you purchased for resale, it is not.
- Know the difference between restricted and prohibited items.
- Restricted items: Require a permit or license from a U.S. agency before bringing them into the country. (Firearms, some fruits, vegetables and pets)
- Prohibited items: These items are banned by U.S. law from being brought into the country. (Unsafe toys and vehicles, illegal substances)
- Bring only amounts of your current medications that you will need during your travels. Do not attempt to bring foreign-made medications home; they do not meet FDA standards and will be confiscated when you process through U.S. Customs.
- Cuban products, regardless of where you may have purchased them, are banned in the U.S.
- Any food, live birds or bird products you acquire from outside the U.S. may be considered restricted items and subject to quarantine. Check with U.S. Customs before attempting to bring these items into the country.
- Be aware that as you return to the U.S., your personal effects are subject to search by U.S. Customs officials. This is to ensure not only your safety, but that of your fellow travelers, and to enforce the laws of the United States.
General Information for Travelers
- Avoid problems and frustrations by purchasing foreign currency or traveler's cheques prior to your departure.
- If you have questions or concerns regarding a specific country on your travel itinerary, contact the U.S. Department of State website for travel warnings and alerts.
- Any questions on what to pack can be answered on the Transportation Security Administration website.
- If you are unsure about luggage sizes and weights, contact your airline.
- Should you have a crisis or emergency situation while in another country, contact the U.S. Embassy website or Consulate.
- "Tips for Traveling Abroad" can be found on the U.S. State Department's website.
Air Travel Terminology
For those individuals experiencing their first travel by air, navigating the airport and understanding some of the terms used can often be a confusing ordeal. In an effort to help with your first air travel experience, the following brief list of terms may help.
| Airport Lounge | The lounges are operated by specific airlines and are generally restricted to members who pay an annual fee. They offer a quieter waiting area and more comfortable seating. Contact your airline or airport for more information. | ||
| Baggage Allowance | The amount of check-in and carry-on baggage you are allowed to take. There are also size allowances for baggage; check with your airline for this information. | ||
| Baggage Carousel | The mechanical conveyor that delivers your luggage from the plane to the pick-up (Baggage Claim) area. | ||
| Baggage Claim | The area where you will pick-up your baggage upon arrival. There are generally overhead signs with arrows to direct you to this area. | ||
| Boarding Pass | This provides you with the information you need to board your flight. You must show this at the time you board the plane. | ||
| Business Class | This is an area of seating offered by some airlines. It is more comfortable than economy, but less than first class. There is an additional cost for this seating; check with your airline for more information. | ||
| Cancellation Fee | A charge levied by an airline when a reservation is cancelled. | ||
| Change Fee | A charge levied by an airline when a traveler makes changes to a restricted-type ticket. | ||
| Concourse | The area where the flight gates are located. | ||
| Confirmation Code | The code given to the individual upon booking travel. This allows Customer Service personnel to locate the traveler's information if necessary. | ||
| Connecting Flight | You may be required to change airplanes to arrive at your destination. As you near the airport, an announcement will be made over the cabin speakers informing passengers of "connecting" flights and corresponding gates. | ||
| Direct Flight | The traveler has no connecting flight, but may have stopovers en route. | ||
| E-Ticket | A ticket that remains in the airline's computer system; a paper ticket is not issued. | ||
| Economy Class | The lowest class of seating. Seating is tighter and there are fewer amenities. Also known as "coach." | ||
| Excursion Fare | Fares at a discounted price that require use of the same carrier and have minimum stay requirements at the destination. | ||
| First Class | The area of seating offering the most luxurious accommodations. There is an additional cost for this seating; check with your airline for more information. | ||
| Flag Carrier | An airline that is registered with a specific country. Though not usually an issue of consideration, traveling military are often required to book flights with a US "flag carrier" airline. | ||
| Flight Attendants | The crew members who work in the seating areas to ensure safety procedures are followed and to help with your travel comfort. | ||
| Frequent Flyer | Programs offered by the airlines for those individuals who spend a great deal of their time traveling. As the traveler buys tickets with the airline, he/she builds points which can be redeemed for products. Check with your airline for more information. | ||
| Gate | When you check-in, you will be informed of your Departure Gate; this is where you will board your flight. There are generally signs as you leave the check-in area, directing you to the "gates." Likewise, when you arrive at your destination, you will be told which "gate" you will arrive at and, if necessary, which gates to go to for connecting flights. | ||
| In-Flight Entertainment/Service | Meals, drinks, entertainment during the flight. Most airlines offer music or movies but may charge for headsets. Many also offer services to allow travelers to browse the internet, text, and send/receive email. Check with your airline for more information. | ||
| Layover | The amount of time an individual must wait between flights before arriving at his/her destination. | ||
| Lost Luggage | When an airline fails to send your luggage to your destination upon your arrival. The airline may reimburse you for essentials and usually forwards the luggage to you upon its arrival. They generally will pay you for lost luggage that cannot be recovered, you must, however provide them with a list of contents. | ||
| Minimum Stay | The amount of time a traveler must stay to receive a quoted fare. | ||
| Non-Stop | A flight from the originating point directly to the destination with no connection between. | ||
| One-Way Ticket | Travel that departs one area and ends at another, with no return trip. | ||
| Red-Eye Flight | Flights that run late at night. | ||
| Sky Marshal | An undercover security officer aboard a flight. | ||
| Special Needs | Any assistance or special considerations a traveler may need, such as dietary restrictions, boarding assistance, etc. Advise your travel agent of these needs when you book your trip to avoid problems at travel time. | ||
| Stand-By | Traveling on a flight without having a ticket for that specific flight. This occurs if a traveler misses a flight, or arrives early and is allowed to take an earlier flight to the same destination. | ||
Packing Tips
Baggage Information
Currently, airlines have limitations on baggage size and weight. The information below is a generalized list; always check with your specific airline for any changes that they may have implemented.
- Carry-on Bags
- One carry-on bag, one personal item
- Carry-on
- Must be less than 40 lbs.
- No larger than 45 inches linear dimension (Total Length + Width + Height)
- Must fit in size-checking bin at the Check-In desk
- Must fit in overhead bin
- Personal Item
- Purses, briefcases, diaper bags
- Laptop computers
- Any item similar to those above, or smaller
- Checked Luggage
- Generally, only one piece of luggage may be checked (both domestic and foreign)
- Check with your airline for exceptions
- Additional checked bags will be assessed a fee
- Check your airline for more information
- Must weigh no more than 50 lbs.
- Must be no larger than 62 inches linear dimension (Total Length + Width + Height)
- Any luggage exceeding the weight and size limitations will be assessed a fee
Always make sure you name and contact phone number are placed both on the inside and outside of your luggage items; some airlines also require your address.
Always use a TSA approved luggage lock. If your luggage cannot be scanned adequately using x-ray machines, airline security may need to open your bags; using a TSA approved lock will allow them access without having to cut your lock off.
Do's and Don'ts
- Restricted Items (Checked Baggage)
The following items are restricted for all checked baggage. - Any realistic replicas of explosives or incendiaries
- Batteries (spillable), except for wheelchairs
- Bleach (liquid form)
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Explosive items
- Blasting caps, dynamite, fireworks, hand grenades
- Fire extinguishers
- Flammable materials
- Aerosols (except limited amounts for personal hygiene), gasoline, gels, lighter fluid, gas torches)
- Flares
- Fuels (Includes cooking and liquid fuels)
- Gun powder (includes black powder and percussion caps)
- Lighters (common and torch lighters)
- Matches (safety and strike-anywhere)
- Paint (flammable and spray)
- Paint thinners and turpentine
- Pool and/or spa chlorine
- Tear gas
For more guidance on hazardous materials, visit the Federal Aviation Administration website
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- Restricted Items (Carry-on)
The following items are restricted for carrying on your person or in carry-on baggage. - Aerosol sprays
- Butane fuel, deodorant, hair spray, insect repellent, propane fuel
- Disabling Chemicals
- Pool/spa chlorine, compressed gas cartridges, fire extinguishers, liquid bleach, spillable batteries (except in wheelchairs), spray paint, tear gas.
- Explosive devices
- Blasting caps, dynamite, fireworks, flares, hand grenades, realistic explosive replicas
- Flammables, liquid or solid
- Fuels, gasoline, lighter fluid, flammable paint, paint thinner, paint cleaner, perfume, strike-anywhere matches (one book of safety, non-strike-anywhere, are permitted)
- Knives
- Any knives, except plastic or round-bladed butter knives
- Martial Arts & Self Defense Equipment
- Billy clubs, black jacks, brass knuckles, kubatons, night sticks, nunchakus, stun guns, throwing stars
- Sharp, cutting or puncturing implements
- Ice axes/picks, meat cleavers, pocket knives, carpet knives, box cutters, metal nail files, metal scissors, corkscrews, swords, sabers, any razor-type blade in or out of cartridge - safety razors are excluded
- Sports items that could be used as a weapon
- Baseball & softball bats, golf clubs, hockey & Lacrosse sticks, pool cues, spear guns, bows and arrows
- Tools
- Axes, hatchets, crowbars, prods, hammers, drills & bits, saws, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers
- Torch lighters
- Generally used for pipes and cigars. These generate a thin flame with a temperature up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Weapons of any sort
- Mace, pepper spray, tear gas, guns, ammunition, gunpowder, realistic firearm replicas, gun parts, starter pistols
- Any other hazardous materials
- Dry ice, gasoline-powered tools, wet-cell batteries, camping fuel, radioactive substances, poisons, infectious materials
- If you have any doubt about an item, call the airline, or do not pack it
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- Carry-On Item Size and Quantity Restrictions
The following items may be carried on the person or in carry-on baggage with limitations - Common lighters
- Lap-top computers
- To provide speedier processing, ensure your lap-top is in a "Checkpoint Friendly" lap-top carrying case. More information on "Checkpoint Friendly" cases can be found at the Transportation Security Administration website.
- Non-flammable liquid, aerosol, or paint
- In 3 ounce containers or smaller (see 3-1-1 Rule below)
- Scissors
- Metal with pointed tips and blades no longer than four inches
- Small compressed gas cartridges
- Up to 2 in life vests and 2 spares
- Tools (Screwdrivers, wrenches)
- Seven inches in length or less
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- "3-1-1 Rule" for Liquid Carry-on Items
- Three-ounce containers, or smaller, of liquid or gel (Larger containers are allowed in checked luggage)
- One quart size, clear, zip-top bag with three ounce, or less, containers
- One bag allowed per individual; must be placed in the security bin
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
Prohibited Items
There are some items that are prohibited by law from entering the United States. These items could pose a hazard to public safety and health or be detrimental to national interests. Some prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
- Absinthe or any liquor or liqueur containing Artemisia absinthium
- Automobiles that do not meet current U.S. EPA and DOT standards
- Biological items such as bacterial cultures, culture mediums, fungi, birds, and plants. For more prohibited biological items, check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website
- Ceramic Tableware
- Cultural Art, Artifacts and Property
- Dog or Cat Fur
- Illegal Drug Paraphernalia
- Firearms
- Fish and Wildlife
- Some Food Items
- Vegetables and Fruits
- Game/Hunting Trophies
- Gold (From specified countries)
- Livestock, Meat and Poultry
- Non-U.S. Originating Pets
- Plants, Seeds and Soil
- Clothing and Textiles
- Copyrighted and Trademarked Items
- Indecent Photographic Material (Including Film)
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
Airline Customer Service
The following is a listing of the major carriers, along with their website link and Customer Service phone number.
| Airline | Customer Service |
|---|---|
| Air Canada | 800-247-2262 |
| Airtran | 800-247-8726 |
| Alaska Airlines | 800-252-7522 |
| American | 800-433-7300 |
| Continental | 800-523-3273 |
| Delta | 800-221-1212 |
| Independence Air | 800-359-3594 |
| Northwest | 800-225-2525 |
| Southwest | 800-435-9792 |
| United | 800-241-6522 |
| US Airways | 800-428-4322 |
Airport Codes
Choose a State below to list each major Airport and its corresponding 3-character Airport Code for that particular state. Or, if you have a 3-character Airport Code, and you don't know what airport it is for, you can search by the Airport Code.
TSA Requirements
To ensure your safety and the safety of your fellow travelers, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented a number of safety procedures and screenings that each traveler must adhere to. Being prepared for these protocols prior to arriving at check-in will make your trip an easier, more comfortable experience.
- Restricted Items (Checked Baggage)
The following items are restricted for all checked baggage. - Any realistic replicas of explosives or incendiaries
- Batteries (spillable), except for wheelchairs
- Bleach (liquid form)
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Explosive items
- Blasting caps, dynamite, fireworks, hand grenades
- Fire extinguishers
- Flammable materials
- Aerosols (except limited amounts for personal hygiene), gasoline, gels, lighter fluid, gas torches)
- Flares
- Fuels (Includes cooking and liquid fuels)
- Gun powder (includes black powder and percussion caps)
- Lighters (common and torch lighters)
- Matches (safety and strike-anywhere)
- Paint (flammable and spray)
- Paint thinners and turpentine
- Pool and/or spa chlorine
- Tear gas
For more guidance on hazardous materials, visit the Federal Aviation Administration website
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- Restricted Items (Carry-on)
The following items are restricted for carrying on your person or in carry-on baggage. - Aerosol sprays
- Butane fuel, deodorant, hair spray, insect repellent, propane fuel
- Disabling Chemicals
- Pool/spa chlorine, compressed gas cartridges, fire extinguishers, liquid bleach, spillable batteries (except in wheelchairs), spray paint, tear gas.
- Explosive devices
- Blasting caps, dynamite, fireworks, flares, hand grenades, realistic explosive replicas
- Flammables, liquid or solid
- Fuels, gasoline, lighter fluid, flammable paint, paint thinner, paint cleaner, perfume, strike-anywhere matches (one book of safety, non-strike-anywhere, are permitted)
- Knives
- Any knives, except plastic or round-bladed butter knives
- Martial Arts & Self Defense Equipment
- Billy clubs, black jacks, brass knuckles, kubatons, night sticks, nunchakus, stun guns, throwing stars
- Sharp, cutting or puncturing implements
- Ice axes/picks, meat cleavers, pocket knives, carpet knives, box cutters, metal nail files, metal scissors, corkscrews, swords, sabers, any razor-type blade in or out of cartridge - safety razors are excluded
- Sports items that could be used as a weapon
- Baseball & softball bats, golf clubs, hockey & Lacrosse sticks, pool cues, spear guns, bows and arrows
- Tools
- Axes, hatchets, crowbars, prods, hammers, drills & bits, saws, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers
- Torch lighters
- Generally used for pipes and cigars. These generate a thin flame with a temperature up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Weapons of any sort
- Mace, pepper spray, tear gas, guns, ammunition, gunpowder, realistic firearm replicas, gun parts, starter pistols
- Any other hazardous materials
- Dry ice, gasoline-powered tools, wet-cell batteries, camping fuel, radioactive substances, poisons, infectious materials
- If you have any doubt about an item, call the airline, or do not pack it
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- Carry-On Item Size and Quantity Restrictions
The following items may be carried on the person or in carry-on baggage with limitations - Common lighters
- Lap-top computers
- To provide speedier processing, ensure your lap-top is in a "Checkpoint Friendly" lap-top carrying case. More information on "Checkpoint Friendly" cases can be found at the Transportation Security Administration website
- Non-flammable liquid, aerosol, or paint
- In 3 ounce containers or smaller (see 3-1-1 Rule below)
- Scissors
- Metal with pointed tips and blades no longer than four inches
- Small compressed gas cartridges
- Up to 2 in life vests and 2 spares
- Tools (Screwdrivers, wrenches)
- Seven inches in length or less
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
- "3-1-1 Rule" for Liquid Carry-on Items
- Three-ounce containers, or smaller, of liquid or gel (Larger containers are allowed in checked luggage)
- One quart size, clear, zip-top bag with three ounce, or less, containers
- One bag allowed per individual; must be placed in the security bin
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
Children Flying Alone
When your children are required to fly alone, no doubt, your anxiety level is much higher than theirs. You can reduce your stress, however, by doing some advance preparation and taking the measures necessary to ensure their safety.
Facts to Help Parents Relax
- Your child is never really alone while on the airplane. The airline will assign someone to keep an eye on him or her.
- Airlines do not abandon child passengers in strange airports. If the plane is rerouted for any reason, airline personnel will escort the child to another plane or to overnight accommodations and will contact you.
- Airlines do not release children to just anyone. Proper identification is required, even if the child appears to recognize a family member.
- It is virtually impossible to put your child on the wrong plane headed to the wrong destination. Airline personnel will verify the information on the boarding pass.
Age Restrictions
- A child must be at least 5 years old to fly alone. Children ages 1-4 must be accompanied by a caretaker who is at least 12 years old. The FAA recommends that children under 40 pounds be placed in a child safety seat.
- Children 5-8 can take a direct flight to a single destination but not connecting flights.
- For airlines that allow minors to take connecting flights, children 8-11 will be escorted by airline personnel to those flights. Older children, aged 12-15, may not be routinely escorted, but you can request this assistance.
- Any child under the age of 17 flying alone on an international flight must have a signed note from a parent or responsible adult giving permission, destination and length of stay.
Making Reservations
- Discuss special needs with the travel agent or airline ahead of time. Be sure the agent knows the child is flying alone. You'll be asked who will be taking the child to the airport and who will be picking up at the destination point. Your child should also have this information available throughout the journey.
- Use this time to discuss special items such as wheelchairs and special dietary needs. Some airlines offer kids' meals, but it is a good idea to pack a snack in case your child doesn't like the food.
- Because schedules change, call the airline the day before to confirm your child's flight.
- Kids flying alone pay full adult prices. You should also expect to pay extra – as much as $100 each way – for this service.
Checking In
- Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight.
- Airline personnel will ask you to complete an "unaccompanied minor" form, show your ID and name the person who will be picking up your child.
- Your child may be given a special pin that enables airline personnel to recognize that he or she is flying alone.
Flight Clothes and Carry-on Items
- Dress your child in comfortable clothes and a light jacket or sweater. Avoid heavy or bulky clothing.
- Pack a backpack with some easy-to-manage snacks, books, quiet games and a favorite toy or two.
- Include a small amount of cash for in-flight movies and provide a phone card in case the child needs to call you.
- Write your child's name on everything you can.
Last Minute Tasks
- Make sure the ticket is in a convenient place and stress its importance to your child.
- Place a card or paper in your child's pocket, or other convenient place, that lists his/her name and age; your name, relationship to child, address and phone number(s); the receiver's name, relationship, address and phone number(s); and all airline information, including flight and gate numbers, and connecting flight information.
- Instruct your child to stay seated after the plane lands and wait for the flight attendant.
- Tell your child to immediately contact airline personnel and then call you if the plane gets rerouted.
- New security measures no longer allow parents to escort kids onto the plane. In most cases, parents can go no further than the security checkpoint.
- Talk to your child about what to expect – landing-gear noises, air turbulence and other "normal" occurrences can be scary if you are not expecting them.
- Do not leave for home until the plane takes off. Occasionally, a flight will be delayed and passengers asked to leave the plane. The gate attendant can let you know when the plane is airborne.
What to Expect
- Arriving at the Airport
- Check with your airline either the morning of or evening prior to your flight to ensure there have been no time or schedule changes.
- Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your flight's departure. If you are traveling with children or disabled persons, allow additional time.
- Since curbside parking is often limited, try to use public transportation to the airport.
- If you plan to use curbside check-in, call the airport or your airline to ensure they offer this service.
- Never leave your car at the front of the terminal unattended; security may have it towed away.
- Tip the porter $1 or more, if your bags are heavy.
- Tip the skycap $1 or more, if your bags are heavy; an optional $1-2 extra for curbside check-in
- While you are in the Airport
- Never leave your bags or personal items unattended.
- Do not accept gifts, packages or parcels from unknown persons.
- Immediately report to airport security any unattended packages, luggage or cases inside the airport or in the airport parking area.
- Immediately report any suspicious activities within the airport or airport parking area to airport security.
- Do not make jokes about having bombs or firearms in your possession. Do not joke or discuss issues of terrorism, weapons, explosives, or any type of threat while proceeding through the security checkpoint. Security personnel consider such issues to be a real threat and will detain you for questioning.
- Check-in Procedures
- All adult passengers are required to possess a government-issued picture ID, such as a driver's license or draft card. If the adult passenger does not own a government-issued ID, he/she must show two forms of ID, one of which must be government-issued.
- If you are traveling out of the United States, ensure that you have a current U.S. Passport. Some countries require this for visiting and you must have it to return to the United States. (For additional travel documents, check the U.S. Borders and Customs Protection website for the latest requirements)
- If using an E-ticket, contact your airline ahead of time to ensure that you have the required documentation.
- Some airlines that have correct security measures in place, maintain automated kiosks in the airport. Check with your airline to ensure they have this convenience available.
- Be ready to answer questions when you arrive at the check-in desk. Know who packed your bags and never leave them unattended before you check them in. Advise the check-in personnel if you were approached by an unknown person who might have acted suspicious or requested you to carry an item onto the plane.
- Cooperate with check-in personnel if they ask to search your bags. Occasionally the x-ray scanning equipment will not be able to ascertain the contents of your luggage.
- Do not wrap any gifts. If the x-ray cannot scan the item, security will open the package.
- Screening Checkpoints
- Once the check-in process is complete, only the ticketed passenger will be permitted to proceed beyond the checkpoint. Exceptions to this restriction are individuals who require a medical assistant or parental escort.
- Only one carry-on piece of luggage and one personal bag (purse, briefcase, etc.) is allowed per individual.
- Any electronic devices (cell phones, lap-tops, etc.) are subject to screening. If requested to do so, provide the device to the screener for additional x-rays or inspection.
- While you are Aboard the Aircraft
- Pay close attention to the flight attendant's safety briefing.
- Observe where your closest exit is located.
- Wear your seatbelt while in your seat.
- If you notice any unattended items, report them immediately to the flight attendant.
- While Vacationing and Returning Home
- Declare all items you purchased outside of the U.S., even if they were acquired in a duty-free store. The items may be subject to fees and restrictions.
- Use caution when dealing with street merchants. Some of their items may be counterfeit, unsafe or illegal and you may be required to relinquish them to U.S. Customs Agents when you return home.
- Any item purchased either for personal use or as a gift may be free from duty fees. If it is an item you purchased for resale, it is not.
- Know the difference between restricted and prohibited items.
- Restricted items: Require a permit or license from a U.S. agency before bringing them into the country. (Firearms, some fruits, vegetables and pets)
- Prohibited items: These items are banned by U.S. law from being brought into the country. (Unsafe toys and vehicles, illegal substances)
- Bring only amounts of your current medications that you will need during your travels. Do not attempt to bring foreign-made medications home; they do not meet FDA standards and will be confiscated when you process through U.S. Customs.
- Cuban products, regardless of where you may have purchased them, are banned in the U.S.
- Any food, live birds or bird products you acquire from outside the U.S. may be considered restricted items and subject to quarantine. Check with U.S. Customs before attempting to bring these items into the country.
- Be aware that as you return to the U.S., your personal effects are subject to search by U.S. Customs officials. This is to ensure not only your safety, but that of your fellow travelers, and to enforce the laws of the United States.
General Information for Travelers
- Avoid problems and frustrations by purchasing foreign currency or traveler's cheques prior to your departure.
- If you have questions or concerns regarding a specific country on your travel itinerary, contact the U.S. Department of State website for travel warnings and alerts.
- Any questions on what to pack can be answered on the Transportation Security Administration website.
- If you are unsure about luggage sizes and weights, contact your airline.
- Should you have a crisis or emergency situation while in another country, contact the U.S. Embassy website or Consulate.
- "Tips for Traveling Abroad" can be found on the U.S. State Department's website.
Prohibited Items
There are some items that are prohibited by law from entering the United States. These items could pose a hazard to public safety and health or be detrimental to national interests. Some prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
- Absinthe or any liquor or liqueur containing Artemisia absinthium
- Automobiles that do not meet current U.S. EPA and DOT standards
- Biological items such as bacterial cultures, culture mediums, fungi, birds, and plants. For more prohibited biological items, check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website
- Ceramic Tableware
- Cultural Art, Artifacts and Property
- Dog or Cat Fur
- Illegal Drug Paraphernalia
- Firearms
- Fish and Wildlife
- Some Food Items
- Vegetables and Fruits
- Game/Hunting Trophies
- Gold (From specified countries)
- Livestock, Meat and Poultry
- Non-U.S. Originating Pets
- Plants, Seeds and Soil
- Clothing and Textiles
- Copyrighted and Trademarked Items
- Indecent Photographic Material (Including Film)
The information just provided is subject to change at any moment. Therefore, to ensure that you are provided with the most up-to-date and accurate information on these restricted and prohibited items, please visit the Transportation Security Administration's Travelers' website and/or the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website.
