Travel Simplified
New Security Measures Mean Pack Less, Check Bags, Arrive Early
The Signal - Business Section, August, 2006
During the past few years, most travelers have become accustomed to dealing with heightened security measures, from removing our shoes to leaving the corkscrew behind when packing. So, not surprisingly, the recent activity in London which resulted in even stricter security guidelines on domestic and international flights, seemed like business as usual for many seasoned fliers.
Having been at the airport for a domestic flight the day the would-be plot for airline disaster was thwarted, I can report that the security process while a bit slower than normal, was not that bad. Flying United, it took at total of 14 minutes for me to check in, get through security and walk to the gate. Could be considered record time by comparison to some days I have spent at the airport.
By most standards, security procedures are considered as routine airport process, and travelers plan for it in advance of arriving at the airport. Certainly, there are more items prohibited for carry-on, such as liquids and gels, but fliers manage to adjust quickly by packing less. The good news, now is the ideal opportunity to lighten your load and check luggage, rather than tote it with you throughout the airport and onboard the plane.
Personally, I found a new sense of freedom walking through the terminal luggage-free, carrying just my reading book. Sure, I felt like I had forgotten something, but the simplicity of traveling unencumbered is, dare I say, great. This is a revelation coming from a person who never checks bags and has traveled the world with carry-on.
Here’s what you do to make the process of security checks and airport lines tolerable: pack and dress wisely. It all starts at home. If you apply the mantra “less is best, and check the rest” when packing, life at the airport security line is sure to be uncomplicated.
While procedures and officials might be on higher alert for all departures from London, here in the US, things are not much different than they were even a few weeks ago. Stick with travel plans, enjoy your holiday and pack for success. Travel can be that simple.
Some carry-on restrictions are changing daily, but here are a few tips that remain consistent and will help you avoid additional stress at the airport.
- Leave home with patience. Focus on the fun that awaits you upon reaching your vacation destination.
- Arrive early. Allow at least two hours at the airport before your flight.
- Ask your agent. Check with your travel professional 24 hours in advance of departure for any updates to the local carry-on policy.
- Pack less. Carry-on luggage is now limited to one bag, plus a small purse, briefcase or laptop. Bring onboard the aircraft only the bare essentials.
- Lighten the load. Forget the carry-on and plan to check your bags.
- Dress wisely. Wear comfortable easy to remove shoes. Remember that some belt buckles, jewelry and shoes set off the metal detectors, so be prepared to remove them at the security checkpoint.
- Have your photo ID handy. You will be asked to show it at the security checkpoint and possibly again at the boarding gate.
By following these simple steps, travelers will avoid unnecessary surprises at the security checkpoint. Who knows, you might even discover the new you next time you travel – unencumbered by carry-on bags, gliding freely through the airport with nothing but your boarding pass in hand.
For more information
contact Nicole Stinson, Public Relations
(310) 312-3368
