Understanding Airport Security Measures

Traveling is stressful enough without getting detained by airport security. You don't want to hold up the line nor do you want to do anything that might provoke a lengthy, involved pat down and screening. Understanding airport security information and rules will help to eliminate these worries. The following suggestions will help you become familiar with airport security measures so that you can get through airport security with minimal hassle.

Dress Appropriately
Oversized clothing such as trench coats and religious veils may trigger a screening to make sure you are not concealing a weapon or restricted item. Wear clothing that fits well and pack your extra coats in a suitcase if you can. Remove all items that contain metal such as heavy jewelry, belt buckles and body piercings and either place them in the bin provided or pack them in your baggage before going through the security check.  If possible, avoid wearing underwire bras, clothing with large metal buttons or snaps and bolo ties, all of which may set off the metal detector.  Wear shoes that are easy to remove and put back on so you can move through the line quickly.

Lose the Metal
Before you walk through the metal detector, make sure you have placed all loose change, keys, cell phones and other items containing metal into the bin to be scanned so you do not trigger a warning. If you are not sure if an item will trigger the alarm, assume it will and place the item in the bin to avoid triggering a search.

De-clutter your Carry-on Bag
The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) recommends that you pack all liquids in your checked baggage if possible. Based on airport security rules, any liquids you absolutely must carry onto the plane with you (such as eye drops) will be limited to three ounces or less in quantity and should be placed inside one clear zip-lock bag that can be easily removed from your carry-on bag and examined. If you will need to carry on a liquid essential such as baby formula for an infant, bring along powdered formula and ask for hot water on the plane. Pack anything that even remotely represents a weapon-such as scissors, nail clippers, nail files, tweezers, penknives, lighters or matches-in your checked luggage so you won't have them confiscated and won't prompt a thorough search of your luggage.

Be Prepared
Have your tickets, ID and passport (if needed) out so you won't need to dig through your carry-on bag to find it. If you have an e-ticket, bring a printout of your itinerary with you.

Cooperate Fully with Authorities
If you are detained and searched, participate in the examination with a helpful attitude. Do not complain or give them any reason to detain you longer than necessary.