The Art of Packing for a Flight

Anyone who has tried packing for a business trip or a vacation lately has discovered that there is an art to meeting both the security requirements and airline restrictions for carryon luggage.

Most airlines only allow one carryon bag and one personal item. What you can carry in that bag seems to change from week to week, but there are some common things you can do to help ease the stress caused by long security lines.

One of the first things is a good piece of luggage. According to Walt Hillmer of Hillmer’s Luggage, Leather & Gifts of Topeka, a good bag will last far longer than an inexpensive bag.
“A good rule of thumb is that you will pay two to three times more for a professional bag and that will handle four to six times the wear, but you will get twice the value.”

It is possible to pack for a stay of a few days using only carryon luggage, but it requires planning.
Here are some things to remember:

1. Make sure that you check the current restrictions on liquids and gels. Currently federal regulations prohibit anything larger than 3 oz bottles packed in a single one ounce clear plastic bag. Small, travel sized items are available at your grocery store.
2. Make sure that remove your laptop and camera before going into security. These things are required to be run through the x-ray machine separate. Have these items packed in a way you can quickly pull them from your bag and reinserted quickly.
3. You think those kids are wearing flip flops in the middle of the winter as a fashion statement? Remember, your shoes must be removed and sent through the x-ray machine as well. If you can, avoid shoes that require you to untie or unstrap. Sandals and flip flops are an easy way to speed up time.
4. Hillmer recommends a small ID holder for your driver’s license and airline documents you can carry around your neck. These items often cause the most difficulty because they are so easy to just to lay down and under the stress, they are often left behind. It’s no surprise you hear people called back to the security gate to retrieve ID’s.
5. Remember, just relax. You have as long as you need to get through security. If you feel as if the traveler behind you is pushing you faster than you are comfortable, don’t worry. The odds are you will never see him again. Just enjoy your trip.

For more helpful information, visit the Transportation and Security Administration's Website at http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm