Take into consideration traffic at the hour you will be leaving so you
arrive at the airport two hours before your flight leaves. If you will be
leaving your vehicle in a long-term parking lot, remember that you still have to
get from the parking lot to the terminal. It makes a big
difference.
At the Airport
Do not leave your luggage unattended
Do not accept baggage/packages from a stranger
Arrival Time
Arrive two hours before your flight is scheduled for take off. Take
this seriously. Gates close early, and you may not be let on. Security screening
takes time too.
ID
Keep your forms of ID easily accessible. You will need to show it at every
checkpoint.
At the Screening Checkpoint
Place in the plastic bins the following:
Coins
Cell phone/pager/PDA
Keys
Belt buckles
Hair clips
Take your laptop and camcorder out of their cases and put them in the bin
provided.
You may be instructed to place shoes in the bin.
Jackets and coats need to be placed on the conveyor belt to go through x-ray
When you are given the signal, you may proceed through the metal detector.
If You Are Selected for Special Consideration
You could feel honored, but like me, most people are going to wonder why they
were chosen. Try to stay calm and cooperate. Screeners are working their shift,
not going anywhere. Whining about missing your flight is not going to get you
through quicker.
How a Pat-down Goes
Screeners are to tell you what they are about to do. While you stand with
your legs spread and your arms out to the side, a large hand-held wand will be
passed over you, front and back. A pat-down search will be conducted by a
member of your gender. The back of the hand should be used on the breast area
(women), genitals, and buttocks. You may request to be screened in a private
location. Finally, you may be asked to sit in a chair while they inspect the
soles of your feet with your shoes off. Again, the wand may be passed over you.
Your carry-on bag may be unpacked for a visual inspection. Usually you are
allowed to repack, especially if there are any medical
supplies/medicine.