November 12, 2002
Airport security is getting it together. We're talking streamlined, uniformed, consistency. We're talking the best kind of governmental process. The Transportation Security Association (TSA) is taking over security at domestic airports and you can't help but notice the difference. These trained officials are out in force; they're proud and professional and they aren't messing around.
Be prepared.
To start they are actually enforcing the two carry-on item limit. Two (or as they like to say 1+1) bags and that is it! That doesn’t mean a rolling bag, briefcase, and purse (ahem, ladies!). I have to admit, I’ve been caught myself on this one and they will make you condense your items. Whether it’s a purse or presents you’ve picked up at the last minute, be prepared for the hawk-eye security officials. (It’s really much better to do this on your own than dealing with the sneers from other passengers for holding up the line.)
Film should be stowed in your carry-on baggage. (If carrying film ASA/ISO 800 or higher you can request a hand-search. TSA recommends that you put your film in clear plastic containers or plastic baggies to ease this process.) It’s reported that the new baggage screening processes can compromise undeveloped film. You may want to consider having your film developed before leaving your destination. Note that the process won't harm your processed negatives and that digital cameras are fine either checked or as carry-on items.
Wear little to no metal. These screening machines are on very sensitive settings and even a small amount of metal will trigger the alarm. This seems obvious, but there is metal in many garments you may not be aware of. Some of the items that are likely to set the machines off and cause you to need an individual search are: steel-toed boots, large zippers, buttons, pins, watches with metal, under-wire in brassieres, and body piercings. You are entitled to request a private search with a same-sex TSA official but all of this will slow down your proceeding to your gate.
Wait to wrap presents until you arrive at your destination. Wrapped gifts are prime for a search and will likely be opened. Pack your wrapping paper and save the task for the other side, or consider shipping your gifts separately. If you have a lot of gifts you’ll also want to be mindful of the new baggage limits which charge for luggage over the permissible weight. Call your airline before departing to make sure you are within their parameters. (If necessary, separate shipping is likely to be much more economical than the airlines fees.)
Other relevant changes in airline security procedures do permit you to carry nail clippers, cuticle cutters, tweezers, and safety razors in your carry-on baggage. However you may not bring metal scissors with pointed tips. What the TSA will be looking for is anything that they believe could be used as a weapon. They allow toy weapons and transformer robots providing that they are not realistic weaponry replicas.
Note that most sporting equipment must be checked. You can not bring baseball bats, ski poles, golf clubs, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, hunting knives, or pool cues onboard. While many other items are permitted in your carry-on baggage if the TSA deems any item "dangerous" you will be prohibited from carrying it with you.
If for any reason you refuse the required screening procedures you will not be permitted to pass the screening point and you will not be able to catch your flight.
By obeying these TSA procedures and practicing smart travel practices you will speed up your own security screening times and, no doubt, be admired by your fellow travelers eager to get onboard and get to their destination.
Traveler Advice