Be an informed traveler. World events affect how security is handled at airports. If traveling abroad, visit the website http://travel.state.gov. This gives the latest news on travel warnings and alerts. It also has the requirements for leaving and entering the United States.
Abide by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules: Get to the airport early, preferably 2 hours before your flight is to leave; have the required identification (check http://www.tsa.gov); and abide by the carry-on item rules (again, see http://www.tsa.gov).
Be courteous. TSA personnel deal with a lot of people and all kinds of people, all day long. They have a very difficult job. Something to remember when going through security at the airport is to look at the TSA people as humans. Try and think about how rude, unkind and obnoxious the previous person may have been. If the TSA person is grouchy, give him a smile. This usually breaks the tension, and he'll appreciate the effort.
Be accommodating. When asked to place different items in different trays, do it. When asked to wait before going through the metal detector, do just that. Wait. Security is not going to change the rules for anyone. If the alarm is set off, do what is asked of you. Be aware that some people are selected for additional security scutiny because of on-site training, or because an alarm was activated. This is why you're supposed to get to the airport 2 hours early.
Be patient. When entering the checkpoint and there is a line, take the opportunity to have the proper identification ready. Don't start digging for identification at the checkpoint. Once at the checkpoint, the TSA person may take a few moments to look over the documentation. When there's a line at the metal detectors, be patient there as well. Other travelers may not be as well prepared.
Smile, be happy and enjoy the trip. Remember, all the rules and regulations put into place are there to make sure all travelers get to and from their destinations safely.
