Flying and packing can be an overwhelming process, especially if you have never flown or its been awhile. Knowing what can go in your carry-on and what should go in your checked baggage is important. Learn these 12 tips & tricks for flying including TSA rules. TSA stands for the Transportation Security Administration who regulates security over those traveling.
Liquids
A quart-sized bag is allowed of travel sized liquids, creams, gels, pastes or aerosols that are 3.4 oz or less each. This will include your travel-sized toothpaste, shampoo, hair gel etc. Keeping these items together in a Ziploc bag (a 3-1-1 rule compliant bag)will make the screening process faster. Anything larger than 3.4 oz (100 milliliters) needs to go into a checked bag. Exceptions include: Formula, breast milk and juice for infants or toddlers, and select Medications. These items are subject to separate screening.
3-1-1 Rule
TSA follows the 3-1-1 Rule standing for 3.4 oz or less, 1 quart sized bag and 1 carry-on bag per passenger. As mentioned above all liquids etc. must be 3.4 oz or less, to contain everything in 1 clear, zip-top bag and limit 1 bag per passenger. That is the 3-1-1 Rule.
Lock
Locks are allowed on your checked baggage, however while shopping look for locks with the TSA approved stamp.
Aerosol Cans
Items such as bug spray or sunscreen in an aerosol can are not allowed in your carry-on bags, however it is allowed in your checked bags.
Food & Water
Food is allowed in both your carry-on or checked bags. However this excludes liquid or gel foods larger than 3.4 oz, which is only allowed in checked bags. Food is subject to additional screening. To save time be prepared and have food in Ziploc bags, which are easily removable. This includes candy collected at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
Reusable Water Bottle
Since water bottles over 3.4 oz are not allowed through the TSA screening process, instead bring an empty reusable water bottle. Once you are through the screening process, simply fill your water bottle at a water fountain.
Screening Children
While all travelers will be screened, those children who appear to be 12 years or younger undergo a modified screening. This includes young children being able to leave on their shoes, headwear and light jackets during screening. All children’s items such as toys and blankets do need to be placed on x-ray belt. Strollers, baby carriers etc. also need to go through an x-ray screening. If an item will not fit through the x-ray, a TSA officer will physically inspect.
Screening Process
Adults (and those who appear 13 years or older) will remove their shoes for the screening process. This excludes select passengers with disabilities. Passengers should also be prepared to remove their 3-1-1 bag of liquids, empty their pockets and place shoes on the x-ray belt. Any electronic larger than a cell phone will need to be placed into a bin for screening (laptop, tablet, handheld video games and e-readers).
ID For Flying
Acceptable forms of ID include: a Driver’s license, U.S. passport and more. Go here for a full list of valid identification. Passengers aged 18 and older will need to show valid ID at the airport checkpoint to travel. Keep in mind starting October 1, 2020 a license or state-issued ID will need to be REAL ID compliant to fly within U.S.
Gum
Pack gum for take off and landing, the motion of chewing helps with pressure in your ears. In addition to being helpful, it is also a fun and distracting treat for children who may be nervous about flying.
MagicBands
Be sure to have your MagicBands in your carry-on bag and easily accessible. You will need to scan your MagicBand to confirm your Magical Express reservation, at the checkpoint.
Luggage
If you choose to have your luggage delivered to your Resort room, do note it can take hours to arrive. Otherwise you can choose to pick up your own luggage and bring to the Magical Express. Your driver will help with your luggage and store under the bus, a tip is nice to consider. For late flights, I recommend getting your own luggage, otherwise your luggage could arrive to your room in the middle of the night.
Packing
When packing, consider dividing everyone’s items evenly throughout your luggage. The reason being, if one bag is lost, everyone will still have something versus one person losing everything. Consider packing a change of clothes for each and a bathing suit in your carry-on, if you plan on swimming upon arrival.
Speaking of packing, with the Ultimate Packing List For Walt Disney World, there is no need to worry about forgetting anything!
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.