The steady increase in airport safety regulations makes it increasingly difficult to know what can and what cannot be brought on board an airplane. You could leave your country with your jar of gel, only to have it confiscated on your return. This article will provide you with guidelines to stay informed and minimize the risk of missing something at security checkpoints, being subjected to further checks, missing your flight or getting into trouble.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Be Informed
Step 1. You need to know which organization you may need to contact
Keep a list of their websites and phone numbers handy as you travel. Useful organizations are:
- Viaggiare Sicuri from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Transportation Security Administration
- The airline you are traveling with
Method 2 of 3: Know the Basics
Step 1. Know the 3-1-1 rule
To travel to the United States, a passenger may carry no more than 3 bottles each containing a maximum of 100ml of liquid in their hand baggage. The bottles should be placed in a clear plastic bag with a zip closure.
Step 2. Reconsider packing potentially problematic items
Some items that are generally permitted may be subjected to additional checks or prohibited at the discretion of security (for example if they set off an alarm or appear to have been tampered with). Items that can potentially present security concerns are:
- sharp objects
- sports items
- gear
- firearms and martial arts weapons
- foods including creams, jams and sauces
- decorative objects containing liquids such as lava lamps and glass balls with snow.
Step 3. Always carry your prescription medications with you and try to keep them in their original packaging
This will not only allow you to take your medicines on the plane with you, but will also help you with any questions the customs officer may bring to your country of arrival.
Step 4. Don't risk it
If you are unsure about an item, mail it or leave it at home.
Method 3 of 3: Be Prepared and Aware
Step 1. Know what you have with you
You are responsible for your belongings and what they contain, so double check in pockets and compartments of clothes and suitcases that there are no items you may have forgotten about, such as lighters, Swiss army knives, bottle openers, etc.
Step 2. Be aware that the list of prohibited items is constantly updated, particularly when security threats are feared
Refer to the relevant websites to find out immediately before you leave which restrictions apply.
Step 3. Declare larger amounts of liquids
There may be exemptions for certain items such as medicines, formula, breast milk, and some foods. You can declare these items but you should be aware that officers may have to carry out additional checks which will take longer.
Advice
- Arrive at the airport and go through security early enough to make sure you have time to re-pack or mail things that cause a security problem.
- Check the TSA website frequently for a list of what you can and cannot bring.
- Use common sense and don't bring anything that is obviously illegal or that could be used as a weapon or to start a fire (including matches).
- Don't expect to receive compensation for lost items. If an item is of value, make sure it is insured in case of loss.
- You can carry AA and AAA batteries on board.
- If you feel faint or sick during the hustle and bustle of the checking process, notify someone immediately. Breathing deeply helps in times of stress and long waits.
- If in doubt, leave it, ship it, or put it in your hold baggage.
Warnings
- Never joke with having prohibited items. Airport security is "obligated" to take these claims seriously.
- Avoid making any jokes about guns, bombs, terrorism, weapons, knives, stabbings, assassinations, choking, crime, illegal / unlawful conduct, TSA inefficiency, or anything else that could be perceived as a threat.
- You are responsible for what's in your luggage, so keep an eye on your stuff all the time and know what's inside. Also check the children's luggage and make sure you know what they have packed.
- Airport security takes safety issues seriously and does not tolerate people misbehaving. Try to be patient and understanding and don't argue, fuss or tantrum.
