Travel Tips

Allow extra time to get to the airport. The airlines are requesting that travelers check in two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to allow for the additional screening that is taking place. Allow additional time for what we anticipate to be long delays just entering the airport and finding parking, not to mention the walk to your terminal, if you drive.

Before you pack, check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for the latest list of items that you are not allowed to take on a plane. Here are the basics as far as what is currently prohibited as carry-on.

Sharp edge or pointed items including knives of any length, or made from any material, are not permitted. That includes the obvious: cutting instruments of every kind, carpet knives, box cutters, knives with folding or retractable blades (regardless of blade length), steak knives, straight edge razors, ice picks, and scissors. Not so obvious items like that small Swiss Army knife or oversized baby pin that you keep on your key-chain are also not allowed.

Flammable sprays including hair-spray can not be carried on.

Other items, which you might have carried on in the past including baseball bats, golf clubs, pool cues, ski poles, and hockey sticks are no longer allowed in the cabin.

Medically necessary needles and syringes, including those used by diabetics and EpiPens, carried by many for allergies, are exempt from these prohibitions if passengers have in their possession prescription medication with a professionally printed label that identifies the medical office, pharmacy, or manufacturer of the medication.

For additional information on baggage restrictions click here to jump to the TSA site.

Wear comfortable shoes. You will no doubt find yourself doing more standing and walking than on previous trips.

Going to LAX? Click here for current information.