First Flight Since Before 9/11 - What Should I Know?
April 30, 2023 1:18 PM Subscribe
I’ve never dealt with TSA, or anything in this new era of flying. What tips can you give me to make this flight less stressful than it already is?
I have flown on an airplane maybe 6 or 7 times in my life, all before 9/11. I am getting ready to take an airplane flight by myself this Wednesday, to go take care of my mother in another state. It will be a relatively short flight –only 3 hours with one layover.
As you might have guessed, I’m not fond of flying. As this is a short trip, I’m only carrying a large day pack, and a purse. I’m not going to be checking any luggage. I take lots of medications including 3 asthma inhalers, and I wear deodorant, mascara, blush, and use eye makeup remover.
I’ll have my smartphone and Kindle, but no computer or tablet. I’ll be wearing sandals, sweats and a t-shirt. I have titanium knees.
Is there anything else I should be concerned about? Any tips? Thank you!
I have flown on an airplane maybe 6 or 7 times in my life, all before 9/11. I am getting ready to take an airplane flight by myself this Wednesday, to go take care of my mother in another state. It will be a relatively short flight –only 3 hours with one layover.
As you might have guessed, I’m not fond of flying. As this is a short trip, I’m only carrying a large day pack, and a purse. I’m not going to be checking any luggage. I take lots of medications including 3 asthma inhalers, and I wear deodorant, mascara, blush, and use eye makeup remover.
I’ll have my smartphone and Kindle, but no computer or tablet. I’ll be wearing sandals, sweats and a t-shirt. I have titanium knees.
Is there anything else I should be concerned about? Any tips? Thank you!
Best answer: You should get the app for the airline that you are flying on. This will be helpful for keeping track of the flight time/delays and can also be used to check in and for in-flight entertainment on some planes. It's the best way to be in touch with the airline.
posted by Mid at 1:37 PM on April 30, 2023 [17 favorites]
posted by Mid at 1:37 PM on April 30, 2023 [17 favorites]
You can look up the TSA rules for your airports online. It’s very helpful. It used to be that you’d keep all your liquids in a clear ziploc baggie and pull that out. But rules change frequently. But you would be in the clear if you kept all liquids to 6 oz. or less and all together in a clear plastic ziploc. If your inhalers are smaller than 6 oz, that’s zero problem. Makeup is all fine. But it used to be (and may still be) that a big thing of cleanser or shampoo would get confiscated. Don’t bring any weapons - knives, guns, etc.. No Swiss Army style knives, no explosives. Apparently people “forget” all the time lately that they have a gun on their person. They will give you directions at each station. You’ll need your ID. In the lineup for TSA there will be clear signage about what is expected. Don’t let it fluster you. Make sure your carryon fits the specs for allowed on board. You are allowed a carryon and one “personal bag” like a purse or cross body bag.
posted by amanda at 1:38 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
posted by amanda at 1:38 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
If it's financially possible, pay for extra leg room and choose your seat. Aisle seats are easier to get out of, but then you have to move for your neighbor when they want out.
Also if you have trouble walking you can modify your reservations to request free wheelchair assistance which makes the security process infinitely less stressful. You should do it by phone or online before arriving at the airport and the agent at the check in desk will call the transport person. The attendant will come and take you through security to the gate, then another will transfer you at your layover, and another will pick you from the gate on landing and take you to the taxi or transport queues.
posted by jello at 1:39 PM on April 30, 2023 [3 favorites]
Also if you have trouble walking you can modify your reservations to request free wheelchair assistance which makes the security process infinitely less stressful. You should do it by phone or online before arriving at the airport and the agent at the check in desk will call the transport person. The attendant will come and take you through security to the gate, then another will transfer you at your layover, and another will pick you from the gate on landing and take you to the taxi or transport queues.
posted by jello at 1:39 PM on April 30, 2023 [3 favorites]
Best answer: Some things that jump out at me: you'll likely need to take your shoes off to go through security, so if you don't want to be barefoot at that time, you might want to consider shoes that you can wear socks with. If your deodorant is non-solid, make sure it's smaller than 3 oz. Same with your eye makeup remover.
Link Here
posted by kbuxton at 1:40 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
Link Here
posted by kbuxton at 1:40 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
Best answer: The TSA website is pretty comprehensive about what the security screening will entail, and even includes a search so that you can check the requirements about anything you pack. Unfortunately, every airport and sometimes even different lines in the same airport may implement these requirements slightly differently depending on what scanning tech they're using. Pay close attention to signage, announcements and instructions from TSA officers.
In general, the main differences you can expect in the screening process from pre 9/11:
posted by Aleyn at 1:44 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
In general, the main differences you can expect in the screening process from pre 9/11:
- You will need valid identification and potentially your boarding pass to pass through security. I recommend keeping at least your ID with you at all times, and you are generally allowed to hold them in your hands while they do the body scan.
- No liquids in containers larger than 3.4 oz
- You will most likely have to take off your shoes and put them through the xray machine. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to put on and take off.
- You will likely need to separate out any larger-than-phone-sized electronics from your bags to be scanned separately, so make sure they are easy to access.
- Anything with a sharp edge or that you're otherwise unsure of you should check whether they're allowed before packing them, or the item may be confiscated.
posted by Aleyn at 1:44 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
IMO you should ask for wheelchair assistance. You'll need to arrive a bit early at the airport, and you won't be able to shop etc., but it will make your passage much smoother. Bring a book for the extra waiting time at the gates. You might not feel you need assistance, but getting through an airport is a huge task, physically.
The phone and the kindle are electronics and will need to be scanned at security, but it's no big deal. Just make sure they are easy to reach, so they can go into their own container for scanning if needed.
Be mindful of toiletry that can be seen as sharp objects, like nail files and scissors. Often you don't even think of them.
posted by mumimor at 1:55 PM on April 30, 2023 [3 favorites]
The phone and the kindle are electronics and will need to be scanned at security, but it's no big deal. Just make sure they are easy to reach, so they can go into their own container for scanning if needed.
Be mindful of toiletry that can be seen as sharp objects, like nail files and scissors. Often you don't even think of them.
posted by mumimor at 1:55 PM on April 30, 2023 [3 favorites]
No. Flying is easy. TSA usually isn’t bad, unless you’re at a know center of assholery like Boston Logan. I read a tweet once that 90% of the complaints about flying simply reflect the complainer’s lack of preparation, which is pretty true.
Check in at the counter, not a kiosk. They’ll walk you through everything. Get a paper boarding pass.
Getting through TSA isn’t hard if you pay attention to the rules and don’t do anything dumb. E.g. I once saw a guy wear a complete armful of wristwatches into the x-ray, which… why? (Even better, this was in Boston, so there were hundreds of people held up in the line, and the TSA agents were screaming.) You’ll have a purse, which will help. Just move everything from your pockets to your purse before getting in line. If by “sweats” you mean a zip hoodie, you’ll have to take that off, so I’d avoid that and just wear a long sleeve top. Sandals are good because you can slip them on and off. Keep all your liquids in one bag (a quart Ziploc is fine), and take them out of the bag. And take your computer or tablet out too.
Grab three bins. Put your sandals and purse in the first, your day bag and liquids in the second, and your computer in the third.
The hardest part of TSA is the line. If you’re at a small airport, it won’t be bad, but at a big one it’ll take some time. That’s just part of the process; there’s no point in complaining about it.
Aim to get through security with some time to spare, so you can use the bathroom and stuff before boarding. I like to get a snack too.
Once you get through TSA, the experience isn’t much different than before 9/11. You won’t have to go through security again at your layover, and you won’t have to do anything after arriving at your destination.
On the plane, bring headphones and a book. The seats aren’t huge, but they’re not nearly as small as people would have you believe. I’m six feet tall, 235 pounds, with a 48” chest and a 34” inseam, and I fit comfortably into a coach seat. Complaining about seat size is a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you go in thinking it’s going to be intolerably cramped and crappy, it will be crappy. If you go in with a positive attitude, you’ll be fine.
posted by kevinbelt at 1:56 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Check in at the counter, not a kiosk. They’ll walk you through everything. Get a paper boarding pass.
Getting through TSA isn’t hard if you pay attention to the rules and don’t do anything dumb. E.g. I once saw a guy wear a complete armful of wristwatches into the x-ray, which… why? (Even better, this was in Boston, so there were hundreds of people held up in the line, and the TSA agents were screaming.) You’ll have a purse, which will help. Just move everything from your pockets to your purse before getting in line. If by “sweats” you mean a zip hoodie, you’ll have to take that off, so I’d avoid that and just wear a long sleeve top. Sandals are good because you can slip them on and off. Keep all your liquids in one bag (a quart Ziploc is fine), and take them out of the bag. And take your computer or tablet out too.
Grab three bins. Put your sandals and purse in the first, your day bag and liquids in the second, and your computer in the third.
The hardest part of TSA is the line. If you’re at a small airport, it won’t be bad, but at a big one it’ll take some time. That’s just part of the process; there’s no point in complaining about it.
Aim to get through security with some time to spare, so you can use the bathroom and stuff before boarding. I like to get a snack too.
Once you get through TSA, the experience isn’t much different than before 9/11. You won’t have to go through security again at your layover, and you won’t have to do anything after arriving at your destination.
On the plane, bring headphones and a book. The seats aren’t huge, but they’re not nearly as small as people would have you believe. I’m six feet tall, 235 pounds, with a 48” chest and a 34” inseam, and I fit comfortably into a coach seat. Complaining about seat size is a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you go in thinking it’s going to be intolerably cramped and crappy, it will be crappy. If you go in with a positive attitude, you’ll be fine.
posted by kevinbelt at 1:56 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Response by poster: I am flying out of the Albuquerque Sunport, a nice sized airport, to Phoenix and then on to my destination of Tucson. I am a 63 year old woman with moderate COPD. I'm not on oxygen, but I get winded easily. I generally use the moving walkways at airports. I booked seats with extra legroom as I am 5'11" and I get grumpy if I am squished. Great answers, everyone!
posted by furtheryet at 2:09 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
posted by furtheryet at 2:09 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Oh, one last thing: I recommend getting to the airport at least 2 hours before your departure time, and if you plan to book a wheelchair I'd increase that by at least 30 minutes. Make sure that whatever transportation you use to get there will leave you enough time that you aren't rushed or stressed about getting to your gate on time. If you're driving or getting a ride, it may be worth checking the Google Maps traffic prediction for your route beforehand.
posted by Aleyn at 2:14 PM on April 30, 2023
posted by Aleyn at 2:14 PM on April 30, 2023
I have one titanium knee. I advise the TSA agents about it just before I get to the scanner. If available, I go through the line with the full-body scanner. (I know they have a name; I just can't remember it.)
Also, wear compression socks.
posted by ALeaflikeStructure at 2:17 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Also, wear compression socks.
posted by ALeaflikeStructure at 2:17 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
The last time I flew, which was pre-Covid, I requested wheelchair service at the Detroit airport (and, on the way back, at Miami) and it made my life so much easier. I didn't even have to wait in line at security, because the staffer pushing me didn't have time for that kind of thing. It saved my energy, kept me out of pain, and reduced the stress of the whole thing considerably. So let me third the suggestion that you consider it. Why get winded at all if you don't have to?
posted by Well I never at 2:18 PM on April 30, 2023 [5 favorites]
posted by Well I never at 2:18 PM on April 30, 2023 [5 favorites]
At both airports, the staff were 100% respectful and kind as they helped me.
posted by Well I never at 2:19 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
posted by Well I never at 2:19 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
There's some things I want to correct in this thread.
I think, but have no personal experience with this, that you need to advise TSA about your knees before going through the security checkpoint (with the scanners and body checks).
If you haven't subscribed to TSA PreCheck - and it sounds like you haven't - you won't need to let them know about metal joint replacements. Source: I have a titanium hip.
The standard millimeter-wave scanners - a rotary scanner that scans your entire body - used on the standard security lines will work fine with metal joint replacements. If you somehow end up with PreCheck and have trouble with the old-school walk-thru metal detector they use on those lines, they'll just route you through the slightly slower millimeter-wave scanner.
Despite my joint replacement and other recent issues, I feel it is not necessary to use wheelchair service in the airport unless you feel you cannot walk, say, a half-mile unassisted.
But you would be in the clear if you kept all liquids to 6 oz. or less and all together in a clear plastic ziploc.
Carry-on liquids need to be less than 100ml or 3.4oz for each bottle or applicator, not 6oz. Do put them all in a quart-sized plastic ziploc or other plastic container.
Do have your electronics separated so you can pull them out of your bag to go through the scanner.
My advice? See if you can check in online on the airline's web site or phone app 24 hours in advance to skip the counter and go directly to security. Get there early (2h before flight time) to make sure you don't get stuck in a long line. Be sure to take your driver's license or state ID. As someone else mentioned, wear shoes you can easily slip off and wear socks under to slip off your shoes to pass them through the scanner.
The seats aren’t huge, but they’re not nearly as small as people would have you believe. I’m six feet tall, 235 pounds, with a 48” chest and a 34” inseam, and I fit comfortably into a coach seat.
As someone over 6'4", I very emphatically disagree - even when I've been in good shape, things have been quite bad - and I regularly consult SeatGuru to see if specific seats on my specific flights will fit someone of my build. However, if you are someone who regularly fits in concert or sports arena seats, you will likely not have issues. (Edit: you got seats with additional legroom, which I assume will be fine.)
posted by eschatfische at 2:19 PM on April 30, 2023 [11 favorites]
I think, but have no personal experience with this, that you need to advise TSA about your knees before going through the security checkpoint (with the scanners and body checks).
If you haven't subscribed to TSA PreCheck - and it sounds like you haven't - you won't need to let them know about metal joint replacements. Source: I have a titanium hip.
The standard millimeter-wave scanners - a rotary scanner that scans your entire body - used on the standard security lines will work fine with metal joint replacements. If you somehow end up with PreCheck and have trouble with the old-school walk-thru metal detector they use on those lines, they'll just route you through the slightly slower millimeter-wave scanner.
Despite my joint replacement and other recent issues, I feel it is not necessary to use wheelchair service in the airport unless you feel you cannot walk, say, a half-mile unassisted.
But you would be in the clear if you kept all liquids to 6 oz. or less and all together in a clear plastic ziploc.
Carry-on liquids need to be less than 100ml or 3.4oz for each bottle or applicator, not 6oz. Do put them all in a quart-sized plastic ziploc or other plastic container.
Do have your electronics separated so you can pull them out of your bag to go through the scanner.
My advice? See if you can check in online on the airline's web site or phone app 24 hours in advance to skip the counter and go directly to security. Get there early (2h before flight time) to make sure you don't get stuck in a long line. Be sure to take your driver's license or state ID. As someone else mentioned, wear shoes you can easily slip off and wear socks under to slip off your shoes to pass them through the scanner.
The seats aren’t huge, but they’re not nearly as small as people would have you believe. I’m six feet tall, 235 pounds, with a 48” chest and a 34” inseam, and I fit comfortably into a coach seat.
As someone over 6'4", I very emphatically disagree - even when I've been in good shape, things have been quite bad - and I regularly consult SeatGuru to see if specific seats on my specific flights will fit someone of my build. However, if you are someone who regularly fits in concert or sports arena seats, you will likely not have issues. (Edit: you got seats with additional legroom, which I assume will be fine.)
posted by eschatfische at 2:19 PM on April 30, 2023 [11 favorites]
If you are Covid averse, expect to wear a high quality mask as much as possible. Virtually no one in airports or planes does so any more. Same thing with cabs/etc. I use a CO2 meter to gauge how much air turnover there is and I've had some with 4000 PPM. (Baseline is ~418.)
If you're sensitive to noise, noise canceling headphones are now pretty decent even on the cheap end.
posted by Candleman at 2:36 PM on April 30, 2023 [8 favorites]
If you're sensitive to noise, noise canceling headphones are now pretty decent even on the cheap end.
posted by Candleman at 2:36 PM on April 30, 2023 [8 favorites]
I highly recommend these Moldex N95 masks with "smartstrap". The folds mean that there is less air resistance when you breathe -- there's a larger surface area that the air passes through. They can easily hang around your neck when you elect to take them off. Finally, they do offer a bit of protection from VOCs, ozone, etc. -- although not OSHA level protection. More info here.
I know two people who have gotten Covid after flying. The mask is non-optional.
Avoid wearing a belt that has metal on it. With sweats, this shouldn't be an issue.
Buy a travel kit that is a clear bag with several small bottles in it. Even if you plan to check shampoo/other liquids, having some with you in case of emergency/lost luggage is good.
Look into getting a personal/travel humidifier. There are USB-powered mist devices that can be mounted to the top of a plastic bottle of water. Planes are very dry, and very full of germs, so this is very helpful.
If you do check bottles of shampoo (I do this because of allergies), remove all air from the bottles or the air will expand in flight. Put the bottles inside a couple of layers of sealed plastic bag.
If you would like to recline your plane seat. politely ask the person behind you if it's OK. If you're tall, try to get an exit row seat.
No one will be able to see you off at the gate, or greet you at the gate. Plan to carry everything yourself, or maybe rent a wheeled luggage carrier if the airport has that.
If you will be flying at a peak time, try to get the kind of luggage that you can stand on end (maybe on wheels) and sit on top of. The lines are long and stressful sometimes.
posted by amtho at 2:40 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
I know two people who have gotten Covid after flying. The mask is non-optional.
Avoid wearing a belt that has metal on it. With sweats, this shouldn't be an issue.
Buy a travel kit that is a clear bag with several small bottles in it. Even if you plan to check shampoo/other liquids, having some with you in case of emergency/lost luggage is good.
Look into getting a personal/travel humidifier. There are USB-powered mist devices that can be mounted to the top of a plastic bottle of water. Planes are very dry, and very full of germs, so this is very helpful.
If you do check bottles of shampoo (I do this because of allergies), remove all air from the bottles or the air will expand in flight. Put the bottles inside a couple of layers of sealed plastic bag.
If you would like to recline your plane seat. politely ask the person behind you if it's OK. If you're tall, try to get an exit row seat.
No one will be able to see you off at the gate, or greet you at the gate. Plan to carry everything yourself, or maybe rent a wheeled luggage carrier if the airport has that.
If you will be flying at a peak time, try to get the kind of luggage that you can stand on end (maybe on wheels) and sit on top of. The lines are long and stressful sometimes.
posted by amtho at 2:40 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Best answer: Take extra meds and underwear. It is not uncommon at all for your travel to be a day or two longer than you think it should be, even for a "short" trip, and you're at their mercy once that happens. Throw in an energy bar while you're at it.
posted by Dashy at 2:59 PM on April 30, 2023 [16 favorites]
posted by Dashy at 2:59 PM on April 30, 2023 [16 favorites]
Liquids - the size/volume restrictions people mention include your water bottle/coffee tumbler. BUT you can take them through security empty and then fill them up the other side.
Do you have specific liquid toiletries you like/can't be without? If you're not fussed, get make up remover wipes because they don't count as liquid. Put any fluid/liquid/cream/balm make up and other toiletries that are small enough in your zip lock bag. Samples are great for this.
If you have things you'd like to bring/can't be without - your supermarket is bound to have a section with travel sizes. In addition, you can normally buy individual travel sized bottles to decant into. I've never seen a 'liquids travel kit' that didn't include random stuff I didn't want or need. Consider solid bar soap or shampoo instead. If you have to make choices about what liquids to bring, all shampoo will clean your hair, not all conditioner will leave it 'manageable'.
posted by koahiatamadl at 3:58 PM on April 30, 2023
Do you have specific liquid toiletries you like/can't be without? If you're not fussed, get make up remover wipes because they don't count as liquid. Put any fluid/liquid/cream/balm make up and other toiletries that are small enough in your zip lock bag. Samples are great for this.
If you have things you'd like to bring/can't be without - your supermarket is bound to have a section with travel sizes. In addition, you can normally buy individual travel sized bottles to decant into. I've never seen a 'liquids travel kit' that didn't include random stuff I didn't want or need. Consider solid bar soap or shampoo instead. If you have to make choices about what liquids to bring, all shampoo will clean your hair, not all conditioner will leave it 'manageable'.
posted by koahiatamadl at 3:58 PM on April 30, 2023
You DO NOT need to arrive 2 hours early if you are flying out of ABQ, checking in from home, and not checking luggage. The Sunport is my home airport and even though it takes me 1.5 hours to get there, I leave home 2.5 hours before my flight time. That’s aiming for arriving 1 hour before the schedule departure, and even considering unanticipated traffic issues and parking off site (with the yellow parking shuttles), that has always been more than enough time. The Sunport is actually relatively small; there are no moving walkways, only a set of escalators.
The one and only time I gave myself a bigger buffer was when I had to travel for Thanksgiving, and even then it took less than 15 minutes to get from the front entrance to my gate.
Be sure your liquid, paste, and cream makeup and personal care products are in containers no bigger than 3.4oz and stored in a quart-sized ziplock bag that is readily accessible. The bag will need to be removed from your carry-on and placed in a plastic bin when it goes on the conveyor belt. You will also need to remove electronic devices and put them in a plastic bin.
posted by ellenaim at 4:05 PM on April 30, 2023 [6 favorites]
The one and only time I gave myself a bigger buffer was when I had to travel for Thanksgiving, and even then it took less than 15 minutes to get from the front entrance to my gate.
Be sure your liquid, paste, and cream makeup and personal care products are in containers no bigger than 3.4oz and stored in a quart-sized ziplock bag that is readily accessible. The bag will need to be removed from your carry-on and placed in a plastic bin when it goes on the conveyor belt. You will also need to remove electronic devices and put them in a plastic bin.
posted by ellenaim at 4:05 PM on April 30, 2023 [6 favorites]
Oh my, apologies about the 6 oz limit! I was wrong! It is apparently 3.4 oz. So definitely read through those rules yourself!
posted by amanda at 4:12 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
posted by amanda at 4:12 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Lots of good TSA checkpoint advice in the thread, but data point: I've flown a LOT a lot since 9/11 and I have never once bothered to use something other than a standard toiletry kit bag for the things that go in there. I've never put anything in a clear plastic bag for anybody. I've had PreCheck for a while and I honestly don't remember everything about how it worked prior to PreCheck, but the only thing I can recall ever pulling out of my bag and putting into a bin prior to PreCheck was my laptop. If you pay for the security theater to leave you alone e.g. PreCheck, you can leave your shoes and belt on, and your laptop etc. in your bag.
posted by emelenjr at 4:34 PM on April 30, 2023
posted by emelenjr at 4:34 PM on April 30, 2023
My experience (flying at least 10 times a year) is the same as emelenjr, even without pre-check.
I use a standard toiletry kit, all products less than 3.4 oz. I don't pull them out at the TSA checkpoint and have never had it flagged.
posted by kserra at 4:46 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
I use a standard toiletry kit, all products less than 3.4 oz. I don't pull them out at the TSA checkpoint and have never had it flagged.
posted by kserra at 4:46 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
Be sure to check in for your flight 24 hours in advance.
You can request to "opt out" of the TSA body scanners. Besides "security theater," and inconsistently applied policy, another reason why you are getting mixed answers about taking liquids out of luggage is due to a new screening technology.
Packing cubes can be a useful way to keep your stuff together if TSA needs to rummage through your bag.
TSA Precheck may or may not be worth it (or feasible for you) since it costs $$$ and takes some time to get approved.
Some folks I know have found it less stressful (and appropriate for their situation) to request a wheelchair to go through security.
If you have a really early or really late flight, it's possible that coffee / news stands may not be open.
Since you've flown last, fare unbundling (and the rise of ultra low cost carriers) has become more common. So make sure you read the fine print. Most U.S. Airlines these days will charge for checked bags, for example. Between most airlines charging additional baggage fees and the real concern of airlines losing baggage, the overhead compartments are fuller than ever. Therefore, your boarding group can be very important... those boarding last may not have space in the overhead bins and will have to gate check their carry on item. (You probably don't want to be last on the plane for a similar reason).
Airports are strict these days about where passengers can get dropped off/ picked up. If someone is coming to pick you up at the airport, you will probably need to call them to summon them to the "cell phone waiting lot" since security usually won't let vehicles park outside the airport for passenger pickup. Speaking of cell phones, make sure you have a handy and safe way to charge your phone.
posted by oceano at 5:39 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
You can request to "opt out" of the TSA body scanners. Besides "security theater," and inconsistently applied policy, another reason why you are getting mixed answers about taking liquids out of luggage is due to a new screening technology.
Packing cubes can be a useful way to keep your stuff together if TSA needs to rummage through your bag.
TSA Precheck may or may not be worth it (or feasible for you) since it costs $$$ and takes some time to get approved.
Some folks I know have found it less stressful (and appropriate for their situation) to request a wheelchair to go through security.
If you have a really early or really late flight, it's possible that coffee / news stands may not be open.
Since you've flown last, fare unbundling (and the rise of ultra low cost carriers) has become more common. So make sure you read the fine print. Most U.S. Airlines these days will charge for checked bags, for example. Between most airlines charging additional baggage fees and the real concern of airlines losing baggage, the overhead compartments are fuller than ever. Therefore, your boarding group can be very important... those boarding last may not have space in the overhead bins and will have to gate check their carry on item. (You probably don't want to be last on the plane for a similar reason).
Airports are strict these days about where passengers can get dropped off/ picked up. If someone is coming to pick you up at the airport, you will probably need to call them to summon them to the "cell phone waiting lot" since security usually won't let vehicles park outside the airport for passenger pickup. Speaking of cell phones, make sure you have a handy and safe way to charge your phone.
posted by oceano at 5:39 PM on April 30, 2023 [1 favorite]
Oh and in the guise of "environmentalism" / cost savings airplane seats are lighter than they used to be. In practice this means (in economy at least) that seats are less padded. So you might want to pack something to sit on if your behind is sensitive in that way.
Also check out seat guru so you have a better idea of what to expect when on board.
Know your fly rights (e.g. for delayed or cancelled flights).
posted by oceano at 5:52 PM on April 30, 2023
Also check out seat guru so you have a better idea of what to expect when on board.
Know your fly rights (e.g. for delayed or cancelled flights).
posted by oceano at 5:52 PM on April 30, 2023
I just flew a couple weeks ago, and I have a wire in my kneecap as well.
* Decant some of the eye makeup remover into a small bottle. That goes into a quart-size ziploc baggie with any other small liquid bottles, and maybe the mascara. The deodorant and blush, and any other non-liquid toiletries, can go in a second pouch, or a second ziploc baggie.
* You will be allowed to have one carryon-size bag and one "personal item" that you can bring onto the plane with you. If one of the agents at the gate is overly cautious, they may ask you to check the size of the day bag to "see if it fits in the cabin" - that's just a matter of trying to see if it fits inside a box they will have at the gate that is the approximate size of the overhead cabin. The box may look a little small - but you can push on your bag to nudge it in. (I had to do this myself because my carryon looks a little big, but it smushes down; and they let me keep smushing until it fit through the top of the box, so I was good.)
* Before you get to the part where they're scanning your suitcase you're going to go through another checkpoint first, where they will look at your boarding pass and then look at your ID, to the point that they may hold it up next to your face and compare your live face to the picture. THEN they send you to the scanners.
* Slip-on shoes are good. You will also be asked to remove any belts or large metal jewelry; also any coats or jackets. Possibly fashion scarves or sweaters as well. They will have a ton of plastic trays by the scanner station; you will need to put the shoes, belt, and other clothing in one tray, and I'd put the phone and the Kindle into a second tray for safety's sake. Those go on the conveyor belt for X-ray scanning along with your luggage. Then you walk through yourself; either you'll walk through a standard metal detector, or one of those "stand here and let this thing do a full body scan' things. The standard detector you would just walk through (the TSA agent will tell you when), and the full-body things have a lot of pictures showing you how to stand and where to put your feet. That scan takes only 3 seconds.
* Mentioning your knee implants to the TSA agent as you approach is probably not a bad idea, but I wouldn't be surprised if it never sets off the scanner anyway. I have a wire in my knee and it didn't affect the scanner at all.
* Once you get through the scanner you'll need to retrieve your stuff from the other side of the conveyor belt, and you're going to feel scattered and rushed because everyone else's luggage is coming right behind yours....I only mention that to add the reassurance that everyone feels that way, so don't feel bad. Most TSA stations have a couple benches or rows of chairs just beyond the X-ray point so you can grab your stuff and then go over there to get yourself re-shod, re-belted and re-packed in less of a rush. (A couple of airports have even put up signage calling those benches "The Re-Combobulation Area".)
* Agree with everyone about arriving at the airport early enough to get through all this razzmatazz. I always follow the "get at the airport 2 hours before your flight" advice, even though I'm not checking any bags and I've usually already gotten my boarding pass; the peace of mind that comes from getting through the check point and having over an hour to find the gate, pee, and grab food is invaluable.
* When your plane starts boarding, they will board by groups; usually they board people in First Class or other special VIP status first, then military personnel, and then people with children and people who "require additional assistance". Everyone else then boards based on a "boarding group" that is assigned to them when they get their boarding pass (the "boarding group" you're assigned to doesn't really have any rhyme or reason to it). I'd consider speaking with the agent when you get to the gate about being one of the "additional assistance" people.
* When you get to your seat, assuming the bag would go in the overhead, your purse would need to go under the seat in front of you (at least until the plane's taken off). Or you can put your purse in the overhead too. They just won't let you hold it on your lap during takeoff or landing is all.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:42 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
* Decant some of the eye makeup remover into a small bottle. That goes into a quart-size ziploc baggie with any other small liquid bottles, and maybe the mascara. The deodorant and blush, and any other non-liquid toiletries, can go in a second pouch, or a second ziploc baggie.
* You will be allowed to have one carryon-size bag and one "personal item" that you can bring onto the plane with you. If one of the agents at the gate is overly cautious, they may ask you to check the size of the day bag to "see if it fits in the cabin" - that's just a matter of trying to see if it fits inside a box they will have at the gate that is the approximate size of the overhead cabin. The box may look a little small - but you can push on your bag to nudge it in. (I had to do this myself because my carryon looks a little big, but it smushes down; and they let me keep smushing until it fit through the top of the box, so I was good.)
* Before you get to the part where they're scanning your suitcase you're going to go through another checkpoint first, where they will look at your boarding pass and then look at your ID, to the point that they may hold it up next to your face and compare your live face to the picture. THEN they send you to the scanners.
* Slip-on shoes are good. You will also be asked to remove any belts or large metal jewelry; also any coats or jackets. Possibly fashion scarves or sweaters as well. They will have a ton of plastic trays by the scanner station; you will need to put the shoes, belt, and other clothing in one tray, and I'd put the phone and the Kindle into a second tray for safety's sake. Those go on the conveyor belt for X-ray scanning along with your luggage. Then you walk through yourself; either you'll walk through a standard metal detector, or one of those "stand here and let this thing do a full body scan' things. The standard detector you would just walk through (the TSA agent will tell you when), and the full-body things have a lot of pictures showing you how to stand and where to put your feet. That scan takes only 3 seconds.
* Mentioning your knee implants to the TSA agent as you approach is probably not a bad idea, but I wouldn't be surprised if it never sets off the scanner anyway. I have a wire in my knee and it didn't affect the scanner at all.
* Once you get through the scanner you'll need to retrieve your stuff from the other side of the conveyor belt, and you're going to feel scattered and rushed because everyone else's luggage is coming right behind yours....I only mention that to add the reassurance that everyone feels that way, so don't feel bad. Most TSA stations have a couple benches or rows of chairs just beyond the X-ray point so you can grab your stuff and then go over there to get yourself re-shod, re-belted and re-packed in less of a rush. (A couple of airports have even put up signage calling those benches "The Re-Combobulation Area".)
* Agree with everyone about arriving at the airport early enough to get through all this razzmatazz. I always follow the "get at the airport 2 hours before your flight" advice, even though I'm not checking any bags and I've usually already gotten my boarding pass; the peace of mind that comes from getting through the check point and having over an hour to find the gate, pee, and grab food is invaluable.
* When your plane starts boarding, they will board by groups; usually they board people in First Class or other special VIP status first, then military personnel, and then people with children and people who "require additional assistance". Everyone else then boards based on a "boarding group" that is assigned to them when they get their boarding pass (the "boarding group" you're assigned to doesn't really have any rhyme or reason to it). I'd consider speaking with the agent when you get to the gate about being one of the "additional assistance" people.
* When you get to your seat, assuming the bag would go in the overhead, your purse would need to go under the seat in front of you (at least until the plane's taken off). Or you can put your purse in the overhead too. They just won't let you hold it on your lap during takeoff or landing is all.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:42 PM on April 30, 2023 [4 favorites]
When traveling via air, I bring an empty plastic water bottle (or a Gatorade or Vitamin Water bottle) to refill once I am past the security stuff. It's lighter, screws on tight, and if I forget and leave it behind on the airplane I'm not bemoaning the loss of a fancy water bottle.
Depending on whether you get cold or hot, you will want to fiddle with the air vent above your seat (right-tight to close the valve, left-loose for more air).
I like wearing a puffy vest with good pockets so I can keep some essentials on my person at all times (without having to shove everything into my pants) and not have to rummage in my backpack. I usually have tissue, ear plugs, lip balm, a teeny hand sanitizer, and my mp3 player + ear buds.
posted by spamandkimchi at 8:27 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
Depending on whether you get cold or hot, you will want to fiddle with the air vent above your seat (right-tight to close the valve, left-loose for more air).
I like wearing a puffy vest with good pockets so I can keep some essentials on my person at all times (without having to shove everything into my pants) and not have to rummage in my backpack. I usually have tissue, ear plugs, lip balm, a teeny hand sanitizer, and my mp3 player + ear buds.
posted by spamandkimchi at 8:27 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
The millimeter wave scanner mentioned upthread might be new to you -- it's been in use since around 2010. It's a different experience from the traditional metal detector in that you don't just walk through it.
After emptying your pockets, removing any big jewelry, removing outerwear, and sending it all through the x-ray with your bags, you'll enter a booth. Align your feet with the markings on the floor, put your hands over your head, look straight ahead in the direction your body is oriented, and hold that pose for a couple seconds while the scanner rotates around you. Wait for the TSA agent to let you know when you can exit the booth and collect your stuff.
All of this is assuming you will not have signed up for TSA PreCheck.
posted by theory at 8:59 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
After emptying your pockets, removing any big jewelry, removing outerwear, and sending it all through the x-ray with your bags, you'll enter a booth. Align your feet with the markings on the floor, put your hands over your head, look straight ahead in the direction your body is oriented, and hold that pose for a couple seconds while the scanner rotates around you. Wait for the TSA agent to let you know when you can exit the booth and collect your stuff.
All of this is assuming you will not have signed up for TSA PreCheck.
posted by theory at 8:59 PM on April 30, 2023 [2 favorites]
I have a pin in my leg and have never thought to mention it, but it's also never been a problem - it certainly won't hurt to tell someone, but if you forget to they will know what to do.
I would second the wheelchair service if you find anything about airports remotely laborious - when I was on crutches after getting said pin and chose that route, I sailed through everything with someone pushing the chair along, and I think I also boarded early. I think you're entitled based on your conditions, but the airport and airline will likely neither ask nor judge. If you do that, you will be wheeled to a holding area away from the shops and somewhat unceremoniously ditched, so bring your own snacks and a book.
California, at least, can be a bit funny about bringing in fresh fruit; the simplest answer is to bring what you will eat and, if necessary, be prepared to dispose of any remainder in the arriving airport. It probably won't be necessary, even so.
Remember that if you make a mistake it's not the end of the world! Supermarkets and drugstores exist at your destination to provide for your needs. Travel became a lot more stressful when I figured that one out.
posted by How much is that froggie in the window at 12:27 AM on May 1, 2023
I would second the wheelchair service if you find anything about airports remotely laborious - when I was on crutches after getting said pin and chose that route, I sailed through everything with someone pushing the chair along, and I think I also boarded early. I think you're entitled based on your conditions, but the airport and airline will likely neither ask nor judge. If you do that, you will be wheeled to a holding area away from the shops and somewhat unceremoniously ditched, so bring your own snacks and a book.
California, at least, can be a bit funny about bringing in fresh fruit; the simplest answer is to bring what you will eat and, if necessary, be prepared to dispose of any remainder in the arriving airport. It probably won't be necessary, even so.
Remember that if you make a mistake it's not the end of the world! Supermarkets and drugstores exist at your destination to provide for your needs. Travel became a lot more stressful when I figured that one out.
posted by How much is that froggie in the window at 12:27 AM on May 1, 2023
The one post-9/11 change I haven’t seen mentioned yet is that only those with tickets are allowed past security. Before 9/11, when flying to see family, they’d come to meet me at the gate. That’s not possible now.
posted by eirias at 2:41 AM on May 1, 2023 [3 favorites]
posted by eirias at 2:41 AM on May 1, 2023 [3 favorites]
I have a titanium hip that sets the xray machine off and I just tell them before I go through that I have a fake hip, and they point me to the other screening machine. It's not a big deal.
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 3:20 AM on May 1, 2023
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 3:20 AM on May 1, 2023
you're going to go through another checkpoint first, where they will look at your boarding pass and then look at your ID, to the point that they may hold it up next to your face and compare your live face to the picture.
This varies by airport, but TSA has been rolling out a new system where your boarding pass is linked to your ID, and all they want is your ID, which they run through their scanner. This pulls up your profile on their computer. If they have this, they will not want to see your boarding pass. You will need to remove your ID from your wallet completely and hand it to the agent, not just let them look at it through a window in your wallet. On the other hand, if they don't have the system, then you'll still need to hand them the ID, but also scan your boarding pass. There probably will be a scanner with a glass top next to the agent. If your boarding pass is on your phone, they will expect you to scan it yourself, but if you have a paper boarding pass, they will (generally) take it and scan it themselves. The best thing to do is to pay attention to what the people in front of you are doing.
And the same at the gate, when you board - if your boarding pass is on your phone, you will be expected to hold your phone screen up to the scanner yourself. If you have paper boarding pass, they may take it and scan it for you, or may want you to scan it yourself.
And boarding passes are now generally a flimsy thermopaper (like a store receipt) with a barcode, not the old cardstock with a tear-off stub you may remember.
posted by yuwtze at 8:59 AM on May 1, 2023 [1 favorite]
This varies by airport, but TSA has been rolling out a new system where your boarding pass is linked to your ID, and all they want is your ID, which they run through their scanner. This pulls up your profile on their computer. If they have this, they will not want to see your boarding pass. You will need to remove your ID from your wallet completely and hand it to the agent, not just let them look at it through a window in your wallet. On the other hand, if they don't have the system, then you'll still need to hand them the ID, but also scan your boarding pass. There probably will be a scanner with a glass top next to the agent. If your boarding pass is on your phone, they will expect you to scan it yourself, but if you have a paper boarding pass, they will (generally) take it and scan it themselves. The best thing to do is to pay attention to what the people in front of you are doing.
And the same at the gate, when you board - if your boarding pass is on your phone, you will be expected to hold your phone screen up to the scanner yourself. If you have paper boarding pass, they may take it and scan it for you, or may want you to scan it yourself.
And boarding passes are now generally a flimsy thermopaper (like a store receipt) with a barcode, not the old cardstock with a tear-off stub you may remember.
posted by yuwtze at 8:59 AM on May 1, 2023 [1 favorite]
If you bring food onto the plane (gifts, food allergies, whatever), put it in a bin alone to go through the luggage scanner.
Apparently food looks suspicious, so pulling it out for better visibility may save you from an annoying but not terrible :bag check:.
Bag checks are where your bag gets flagged (on imaging) for a tsa agent to unpack and verify a thing is OK or not allowed through. They happen for a variety of reasons - full-size bottles of shampoo or toiletries, food, or sometimes even just a collection of wires/adapters/power cords. The tsa agent will tell you what to do and it's minor. The biggest thing is not to touch your bag before they've pulled the flagged item out and looked at it.
Your inclination and social programming will be to help them move your stuff to the screening area, but don't do it! If you do touch your bags they'll tell you not to but no real consequence. I mention it because there's some strong cultural programming that I have to fight to not help someone carry my stuff.
This is also why I know food often gets flagged as suspicious - it's completely legal to fly with non-liquid food (ie no soup but noodles are fine), but save yourself and the agents some hassle and stick it in the conveyer belt bin alone.
Airplanes now have far better turbulence detection and avoidance and pressurize the cabins more - I'm blown away at how smooth flights are. Often pilots will announce turbulence before or as it begins and will turn the seat belt light on. Ascent and decent aren't painful on the sinuses anymore!
Airplane bathrooms are smaller.
There's no food on flights other than expensive junk food.
Bring an empty bottle through security for water and same for a coffee cup if you'll want either.
Seat back pockets are minescule - phone and ear buds is about it. However, seat charging (a plug for each passenger) is widely available and wonderful.
There's still drinks service, but it's more limited in selection, size, and friendliness. Flight staff are under incredible pressure, know what you want to drink (the menu is in the pamphlet in the chair pocket) and try to be clear, even yelling through a mask.
I prefer aisles for the excuse to stand up and stretch.
When you reach your gate, talk to the agent there or at a neighboring gate if they aren't there yet, and see if they can move you to an isle or window. *anything* but the awful middle seat.
Middle seat etiquette is they get the arm rests.
Several flights in the last month for me and I was masked for my entire time in the airport and plane and wasn't the only one. Do wear one, and noise canceling headphones or ear plugs.
No one talks much to each other on flights anymore - very little pressure to get to know your neighbor or row-mates. It's too loud and everyone is wearing headphones. This doesn't mean people are unfriendly, but I notice more silent smiles and friendly nods and reaching to lift someone's bags rather than chatting.
Some seats have little media players embedded in the back and other planes do not. They're no longer paid services - watch movies with abandon! (They work remarkably well as distraction)
You're allowed to board first (mobility issues) - so DO IT. Even if you're in the last row, you won't need to worry about getting your carry on on the plane. No one will police you for this.
Every plane has specific bin configurations now (wheels in or out, bags on their sides like library books, or not, etc) - don't mess with it, just ask someone to help you. People will fall all over themselves to help you! Please don't only ask white men for help - anyone can and will be honestly happy to help you.
If you need something from your neighbor, I'm willing to bet they'll want to help you. Speaking as a comfortable flier (and introvert), I've held hands with strangers for takeoff and it wasn't weird or awful - people get cranky in the security lines, but on the plane there's a lot of comradery because everyone is trying to take up less space.
posted by esoteric things at 12:24 AM on May 6, 2023
Apparently food looks suspicious, so pulling it out for better visibility may save you from an annoying but not terrible :bag check:.
Bag checks are where your bag gets flagged (on imaging) for a tsa agent to unpack and verify a thing is OK or not allowed through. They happen for a variety of reasons - full-size bottles of shampoo or toiletries, food, or sometimes even just a collection of wires/adapters/power cords. The tsa agent will tell you what to do and it's minor. The biggest thing is not to touch your bag before they've pulled the flagged item out and looked at it.
Your inclination and social programming will be to help them move your stuff to the screening area, but don't do it! If you do touch your bags they'll tell you not to but no real consequence. I mention it because there's some strong cultural programming that I have to fight to not help someone carry my stuff.
This is also why I know food often gets flagged as suspicious - it's completely legal to fly with non-liquid food (ie no soup but noodles are fine), but save yourself and the agents some hassle and stick it in the conveyer belt bin alone.
Airplanes now have far better turbulence detection and avoidance and pressurize the cabins more - I'm blown away at how smooth flights are. Often pilots will announce turbulence before or as it begins and will turn the seat belt light on. Ascent and decent aren't painful on the sinuses anymore!
Airplane bathrooms are smaller.
There's no food on flights other than expensive junk food.
Bring an empty bottle through security for water and same for a coffee cup if you'll want either.
Seat back pockets are minescule - phone and ear buds is about it. However, seat charging (a plug for each passenger) is widely available and wonderful.
There's still drinks service, but it's more limited in selection, size, and friendliness. Flight staff are under incredible pressure, know what you want to drink (the menu is in the pamphlet in the chair pocket) and try to be clear, even yelling through a mask.
I prefer aisles for the excuse to stand up and stretch.
When you reach your gate, talk to the agent there or at a neighboring gate if they aren't there yet, and see if they can move you to an isle or window. *anything* but the awful middle seat.
Middle seat etiquette is they get the arm rests.
Several flights in the last month for me and I was masked for my entire time in the airport and plane and wasn't the only one. Do wear one, and noise canceling headphones or ear plugs.
No one talks much to each other on flights anymore - very little pressure to get to know your neighbor or row-mates. It's too loud and everyone is wearing headphones. This doesn't mean people are unfriendly, but I notice more silent smiles and friendly nods and reaching to lift someone's bags rather than chatting.
Some seats have little media players embedded in the back and other planes do not. They're no longer paid services - watch movies with abandon! (They work remarkably well as distraction)
You're allowed to board first (mobility issues) - so DO IT. Even if you're in the last row, you won't need to worry about getting your carry on on the plane. No one will police you for this.
Every plane has specific bin configurations now (wheels in or out, bags on their sides like library books, or not, etc) - don't mess with it, just ask someone to help you. People will fall all over themselves to help you! Please don't only ask white men for help - anyone can and will be honestly happy to help you.
If you need something from your neighbor, I'm willing to bet they'll want to help you. Speaking as a comfortable flier (and introvert), I've held hands with strangers for takeoff and it wasn't weird or awful - people get cranky in the security lines, but on the plane there's a lot of comradery because everyone is trying to take up less space.
posted by esoteric things at 12:24 AM on May 6, 2023
« Older Why is my ceiling fan making a weird humming noise... | Is a degas feature important on a 6L ultrasonic... Newer »
This thread is closed to new comments.
I think, but have no personal experience with this, that you need to advise TSA about your knees before going through the security checkpoint (with the scanners and body checks).
posted by sm1tten at 1:36 PM on April 30, 2023