Your carry-on luggage must have Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved dimensions to fit through screening devices. Luggage locks must also meet TSA criteria. If in doubt, purchase TSA-approved luggage locks from a discount, travel or department store. Attach a label inside each piece of luggage in the event a luggage tag separates from one of your bags. The inside label should list your name and the address and phone number where you can be reached. For checked baggage, use a brightly colored luggage tag or tie a small, brightly colored piece of cloth to the handle for easy identification on the baggage-claim carousel.
The Transportation Security Administration recommends packing in layers and organizing any electric and electronic items with their cords bundled so the screeners can easily visualize the contents of your bag. You may need to remove your laptop from its case for screening.
Organize your documents in an easily accessible but secure place. You need your legal identification such as a driver's license or state-issued identification card, passport if leaving the country, ticket and itinerary. You may want to secure your documents, credit cards and money in a travel wallet that attaches to your belt, or wear a travel shirt with inside pockets that zip closed.
Before you leave for the airport, verify your flight will depart on time by checking the airline website or calling the number on your ticket or itinerary.
Follow the airline requirements for early check-in prior to your flight. By arriving as early as possible, you can minimize the time standing in line and allow time to ask questions.
Each passenger can carry a 1-quart clear plastic bag packed with 3.4-oz. containers of liquid or gel personal-care products in their carry-on baggage. Pack larger containers in checked baggage. The TSA allows exceptions for medications, baby formula and breast milk, and passengers must declare these items at check-in.
If you have no checked baggage, and an e-ticket, you may be able to obtain your boarding pass from a self-service e-ticket kiosk. Simply follow the instructions on the kiosk to enter your confirmation number, print the boarding pass and proceed to the screening area for your departure gate.
Electronic signs in the concourses provide ongoing status updates for arrivals and departures. Look for your airline, destination and flight number for a status such as "on time" or "delayed."
