When flying it always an ordeal to cope with the luggage. What do you pack, what can’t you pack, what do you want on you, what can go in the luggage compartment? It really can be very stressful. Let us guide you through the process for a stress free flight.
Firstly, is the carry-on luggage. This is generally a small bag that you can carry on board the airplane with you. Normally, you can take this small bag on in addition to your purse, laptop computer, briefcase, or camera case.
Each airline carrier has different regulations to the size and weight of your carry-on baggage, so it’s best to find out before you get to the airport.
All carry-on luggage will be x-rayed by security before being allowed into the departure lounges. It is important to always keep your bags with you and in sight.
When x-raying you will need to remove your laptop from it’s case. Ensure to label your laptop computer to avoid loss or the accidental swap by other passengers.
If you are only going a way for a couple of days, it may be possible to pack your clothes into your carry on bag. This saves having to check baggage in and makes exiting the airport upon disembarking much quicker.
But if you do need more space than the small carry-on bag will allow, you will need to have your luggage checked in. This will occur either at the ticket counter or at the curbside and once checked in you will not have access to your bag until arrival at your destination.
The American Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checks all luggage on airplanes. As bags will need to be opened to check the TSA requests that bags be left unlocked or locked with a TSA recognized lock.
It is important that the following items:-
fragile items (no matter how well packed)
electronics
laptop computers
jewelry
cash
NOT be packed in your checked in luggage.
Also, be aware that the screening of luggage can effect film, so it is best kept in you carry on luggage.
Avoid over packing your bag, so that if it is opened for inspection, the inspector can easily reseal your bag.
Ensure to attach identification tags with your name, address and phone number on all of your baggage, including your laptop computer. And, as an extra precaution, it is a good idea to insert some identification inside your baggage as well, just in case the exterior id gets dislodged.
And, if traveling with gifts, it is best to leave them unwrapped in case they need to be inspected.
Follow these tips and your next flight is sure to be much less stressful. For more details go the TSA web site at https://claims.tsa.dhs.gov.
Happy Traveling
Lisa
By: Lisa Paterson