Know Before You Go: Airport Security Q&A

If you haven't flown since August's aborted terrorist attacks in London, you may not be up on the latest airport security changes from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Most travelers are aware that the TSA has instituted strict regulations about the amount of toothpaste, bottled water, and other liquid and gel items permitted in carry-on luggage. But what exactly are the rules? How much shampoo can you bring? And what if you're flying overseas?
We've gathered answers to these and other common questions to help you figure out your packing strategy under the new TSA rules. With air traffic back to pre-September 11 levels, it's more important than ever to follow the guidelines -- that way you won't be the fool holding up your entire security line.

Q. Are liquids and gels permitted in my checked baggage?
A. Yes. The new rules only apply to carry-on baggage.

Q. May I bring liquids and gels in my carry-on?
A. Yes, but only in limited amounts. Liquids and gels must be in individual containers of three ounces or less. All containers should be original (i.e., no pouring your shampoo from its factory-labeled bottle into a smaller, unlabeled one) and placed inside one clear, quart-size, plastic, zip-top bag. The TSA emphasizes that containers should fit comfortably into your bag, and that only one bag is permitted per passenger. If you need to bring more than three ounces of any liquid or gel substance, it should go into your checked luggage.

Q. What about prescription medications, baby formula or milk?
A. These substances are exempt from the rules above. As long as you declare them at the security checkpoint, you may carry more than three ounces, and they do not need to be placed in a plastic bag. Please note that your prescriptions must be in their original labeled containers. The TSA may also make exemptions for other medical necessities such as insulin, eye drops or syringes. Please visit the TSA Website for more details.

Q. What about makeup?
A. Makeup is subject to the same liquid and gel rules as all other substances -- so if you're bringing liquid mascara, lip gels (such as Blistex) or other liquid- or gel-like items, they will need to be placed in your quart-size plastic bag in three-ounce or smaller containers. Lipstick, powders, solid lip balms (such as Chapstick) and other solid beauty products are not subject to the rules and may be carried in your hand luggage without restriction.

Q. What about food?
A: Even though the TSA says to "try not to over-think" the new guidelines, that can be tricky when it comes to food items. Does a cheesecake count as a gel or a solid? What about pecan pie? And can you bring your holiday leftovers like turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes? A TSA rep told us that most cakes and pies wouldn't make it through security (blame the frosting and gooey pie filling), while turkey and stuffing should be solid enough to pass muster. (We've heard from several readers who told us that they made it through with cheesecake, so it might be worth a try.) Similarly, you can bring solid snack foods such as pretzels, potato chips or carrot sticks for the plane -- but you may want to hold the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Our advice? If you have any doubts about an item, either check it or leave it at home. After all, you may buy food or drinks after you pass through the security checkpoint if you need some munchies for the plane.

Q. If I purchase beverages or other liquids/gels beyond the security checkpoint at the airport, may I bring them on the plane?
A. Yes.

Q. What if I'm traveling to Europe?
A. The European Union (E.U.) has recently adopted similar security restrictions to those in the U.S. You are permitted 100-milliliter containers of liquid and gel substances, packed within a clear, re-sealable, one-liter plastic bag. You may purchase duty-free liquids, such as perfume or alcohol, in E.U. airports or on planes operated by E.U. airlines; however, you must leave these items in their original sealed containers until after you have passed through all security screens in Europe. If your first stop in the U.S. is a connecting flight, you must use your time in customs to put your duty-free items into your checked baggage; the tamper-free containers acceptable in the E.U. will not make it through U.S security checkpoints. However, if you are flying nonstop from Europe to your final destination in the U.S., your duty-free items may be left in your carry-on. For more information, Click here.

Q. What if I'm traveling to Australia?
A: Starting in late March, Australia will also implement similar security restrictions to those in the U.S. and Europe. Travelers will be limited to 100-milliliter containers of liquids and gels, carried in a clear, one-liter plastic bag. These restrictions will apply to both in- and outbound international travelers.

Q. How early should I arrive at the airport?
A. We recommend arriving at the airport two hours before your flight, especially if you're traveling during the busy holiday season. If you're flying internationally, you may want to allow yourself even more time.

Q. What should I expect at the security checkpoint?
A. You will have to put all footwear, jackets, jewelry, cell phones, keys and other metal items into a bin for screening before you step through the metal detector. Laptops and video cameras must be removed from their cases and screened individually. You can save time at the checkpoint by putting all metal items into your carry-on ahead of time, taking your electronic items out of their cases before reaching the security checkpoint, and wearing easily removable footwear.

Q. I'm bringing birthday or holiday gifts. What's the best way to pack them?
A. Do not pack wrapped gifts in either your carry-on or checked baggage, as the TSA may have to unwrap them for inspection. Your best bet is to wrap your gifts once you arrive at your destination, or ship them ahead of time.

Q. May I bring electronic items on the plane or in my checked luggage? If so, how should I pack them?
A: Laptops, video cameras, iPods, Gameboys and most other standard electronic devices are permitted in both checked and carry-on luggage. As noted above, you should be prepared to remove laptops or video cameras from their cases at the security checkpoint for additional screening. Because electronic items tend to be frequent targets for security screening, you may want to pack these near the top of your bag so that inspectors don't need to unpack your whole suitcase to get to them.

Q. Can I lock any suitcases that I'm checking?
A. Yes, but you'll need to use a TSA-approved lock so that screeners can open it if your bag is selected for inspection. TSA screeners will simply cut off non-approved locks if they need to get into your bag. You can learn more about approved locks and where to find them at the TSA's Website.

Q. Where can I find more information about airport security?
A. Check the TSA's Website for packing tips, a full list of permitted and prohibited items, and information for travelers with special needs.