First time air traveler here, and i have a few questions.

Question

ok so the only real problem i have is with the whole security thing. i went here: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/index.shtm

and scrolled all the way down and clicked step by step screening to see what exactly (step by step) i have to do when going through security. But its not working for me, so could someone please describe step by step the screening process? And if you have any other tips and info about air travel, i would appreciate that too. thank you :)

Answer 1

Well, just make sure that you don't have any liquids or creams such as toothpaste in your carry on bag. Then you put all of your carry-ons on a belt that goes through an exray to make sure you don't have any weapons, while you step through a medal detector. If you beep while you go under, they will pat you down, but usually it is just a very quick process. As for tips? make sure you have everything organized, ready to go and reachable such as your boarding pass, passport ect. Bring things to entertain yourself on the plane (but most planes have tv's on the chairs anyways), relax and stay hydrated.

good luck

Answer 2

When you arrive at the airport you'll approach the check-in counter and produce a valid ID (Passport, Drivers License, or State Issued ID for an adult/Passport, or birth certificate for a child) to check into your flight.

If you're checking a bag you'll need to notify the person assisting you to this (declare firearms if you have them packed) and answer the "Has your luggage been out of your possession question".  Some airports have you transport your luggage to TSA for screening, while others simply put it on the luggage belt behind them for you.

Then it's time to head to the real hassle which is personal security screening.  You'll wait in line (have your ID and boarding pass ready) until you can be checked by the front lane attendant. He/She will most likely direct you to the shortest line where you will need to:

a) remove any jacket, belt, and shoes to run through the screening device (these will go in a bin)

b) empty your pockets into a bin for screening

c) if traveling with a laptop...remove it from it's bag and place into a bin for seperate screening

d) put your carry on and laptop bag/purse onto the same belt for screening.

You'll then pass through the metal detector (wait for the TSA agent to wave you through)....then the race is on to get all of your stuff back on and packed.

Please make sure and review the TSA website for prohibited items, and the 3-1-1 rule for taking liquids on board with you.

I hope that helps!

Answer 3

No "sharps".  So nail clippers, etc., will have to be in your checked luggage/suitcase (ie not in your carry-on luggage).

Beware what you have in your hair.  No metal "ibis" clips, etc., or anything that may be perceived as a "weapon".

Watch what jewelry you wear.  Too many or too large metal bangles/bracelets will set-off the metal detectors.  So be prepared to remove jewelry, belts, etc., if you wear lots of metallic objects.

There's also a restriction on "fluids".  Put all your "cosmetic" liquids (ie make-up remover, etc.) in your checked luggage.

Depending on the airport/country and whether you are travelling domestic or international, you may or may not be allowed to take a bottle of water through security.  Some domestic flights will allow you to bring your own water on board... other flights insist you buy water once you've passed through security.

So... upon arrival at the airport... check your luggage through.  They'll ask you whether you have aerosols, matches, etc., in your suitcase.  Listen to what they ask and answer honestly.

Then proceed to security.

You'll need to place your carry-on luggage on the conveyor that passes through the x-ray machine, and you'll need to walk through the metal detector.  You may also be taken aside for your carry-on to be swabbed (to detect explosives etc.).  This is usually just a random check, so don't get all paranoid.  And you may also be given a check over with a hand-held detector.  These are usually set at a higher detection level; and (again) it's a random check... so don't sweat it.

Once you've passed through security, you are free to roam the airport complex.

Oh... and depending on where you are travelling to, you may find you have to pass through security again once you disembark.

Enjoy your flight.