That’s the takeaway from too many tragic plane emergencies, including the May 2019 explosion of Aeroflot flight 1492 in Moscow, which killed 41 people. In that incident, a lightning strike forced the pilots to make an emergency landing. The plane caught fire but remained intact, and passengers were prompted to evacuate.

However, as details about the incident emerged, investigators signaled that more people could have survived if not for one preventable reason. Video shows passengers dragging carry-on bags with them as they flee the burning plane, and reports suggest the evacuation was slowed by people retrieving their belongings from the overhead bins.

“Reports from people on the plane indicate the evacuation may have been slowed by passengers grabbing their bags. Videos show passengers taking their carry-on bags with them as they exited the plane,” the Association of Flight Attendants said in a statement. “We will never know if more lives could have been saved if the bags were left behind.”

The purpose of posing this question is not to blame the victims of a tragic incident. However, it is a reminder that it’s always worth a refresher on what to do—and what not to do—when you need to evacuate in a plane emergency.

Your Bags Are Never Worth It

The tragic Aeroflot emergency is not the only aviation incident in recent years that has brought in-flight safety to the forefront of travelers’ minds. This year alone saw the collision and evacuation of Japan Airlines flight 516, an easyJet flight filled with smoke on the runway, and a string of safety issues with the Boeing 737 Max aircraft, prompting passengers to pay extra attention to the safety demonstration.

If you find yourself in an evacuation situation, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) makes no mistake about it: “If an emergency evacuation is necessary, leave your carry-on items on the plane. Retrieving personal items may impede the safe evacuation of passengers.”

This bears repeating because, as we’ve reported in the past, people seem inclined to do the opposite. During a recent incident in which a laptop caught fire in the cabin of an American Airlines flight, evacuation was stalled by passengers attempting to retrieve their hand luggage against the instruction of the flight attendants. Understandably, the idea of leaving things behind is difficult to accept—losing a laptop, passport, or cash can be an inconvenience. Or perhaps the banality of modern airline travel makes travelers complacent in emergency situations, thinking the danger or urgency is overblown. If that’s the case, though, you’ll likely see your possessions again soon.

It’s also worth nothing that with seat sizes shrinking and plane cabins getting more crowded than ever, it could take longer than you’d think to evacuate. The FAA, in guidelines set forth in 1967, states that commercial aircraft should be able to evacuate completely in 90 seconds. According to an NPR report, it took approximately 5 minutes to complete the evacuation of passengers aboard Japan Airlines flight 516 and 18 minutes for the captain to finally disembark, demonstrating that even a well-executed evacuation can take far longer than the FAA’s standard.

What to Always Do

But as safe as airline travel is, incidents like the Aeroflot fire illustrate the fine line between surviving and perishing in non-crash situations. So, even though you may know the standard onboard safety presentation by heart, here are a few must-do tips for evacuating a plane quickly:

• Look: Locate the nearest emergency exit when you take your seat so you know which way to go. Count the number rows between you and the nearest exit in case you need to navigate in the dark.
• Listen: In the event of an emergency, listen to the flight attendants’ instructions and follow them precisely. Remember, they’re trained for this.
• Leave it behind: Everything in your baggage can be replaced. Your life or well-being, and that of your fellow passengers, cannot.

The post What Not to Do When Exiting a Plane During an Emergency appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here are some important facts about the Trusted Traveler programs, from who you can bring with you through expedited screenings to who can cut you in the security line.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

You Can’t Bring Your Kids Through With You

Only travelers with Global Entry memberships can go through Global Entry lanes at customs—no exceptions. This means parents/guardians traveling with children cannot bring their kids through with them unless the children have their own Global Entry memberships. 

However, children 12 and under can use TSA PreCheck lanes with an adult with a PreCheck membership. Children aged 13-17 traveling on the same reservation with an enrolled adult can only use the TSA PreCheck lane if they have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass.

Global Entry is Free for Children Under 18

Luckily, even though your kids can’t go through Global Entry lines with you, Global Entry is free for children 18 and under as long as their parent or guardian is applying for it or already have it. All applicants must hold a valid US passport and apply separately.

Interviews Upon Arrival are Available

If you can’t find a convenient Global Entry interview appointment, save yourself a trip out to the airport by doing Enrollment on Arrival during your next international trip. 

This program allows Global Entry applicants who are conditionally approved to complete their interviews upon arrival into the United States—no appointment necessary. Simply follow the airport signage to Global Entry after you land. Just remember to bring the required documents that you’ll need for your application (proof of residency and a valid passport.)

Global Entry Only Costs $42 More Than TSA PreCheck

If you’re going to leave the country at all in the next five years, it’s an easy decision to choose a Global Entry membership over TSA PreCheck. 

Global Entry costs $120 for five years, and TSA PreCheck costs $78 for the same time period. A Global Entry membership automatically includes a TSA PreCheck membership, plus offers expedited customs screenings when reentering the United States.

Both programs have a similar application process, and each requires an in-person interview that includes fingerprinting.

The extra $42 for Global Entry is worth it to skip the long customs line after a long international flight!

Military Members Get PreCheck for Free

Active military members can participate in TSA PreCheck for free—no application or enrollment required.

To get the benefits of TSA PreCheck, simply enter your Department of Defense ID number as your Known Traveler Number when buying an airplane ticket, and you should automatically get the TSA PreCheck symbol on your boarding pass.

Unfortunately, military members don’t get Global Entry for free. 

Global Entry Applications Take a Long Time

Want to get a Global Entry membership before your next international trip? Better plan ahead, as according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Global Entry applications are currently taking between 4-6 months to be processed. 

Additionally, appointments for application interviews are often booked up two or more months out at major airports. 

You Don’t Even Need to Show Your Passport With Global Entry

Entering the United States with Global Entry has gotten even faster lately. When the program first launched, flyers had to use a machine to scan their passports and fingerprints in order to be processed. Now, most airports feature kiosks with facial recognition technology, so all you have to do is snap a photo of your face and you’re done. 

You Might Still Get Cut in Line

One of the best parts of having a TSA PreCheck membership is getting to feel smug when you cut all of the regular flyers in line for security. Unfortunately, you might still get cut in line yourself, as CLEAR members get top priority in line.

A CLEAR membership only allows you to skip the security line—if you’re tempted to sign up, just know that you’ll also need to pay for a TSA PreCheck membership if you want screening perks like going through the metal detector instead of the body scanner.

Watch out for Scam Websites

When you’re ready to apply for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you might just Google the name of the program and sign up through the first link you see.

There are a number of sponsored links that show up first in Google search results for both programs that are not the official application sites.

Only apply for Global Entry through the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and TSA PreCheck through the TSA’s website. Remember to look for a URL ending in .gov to make sure you are on a real government website, and not a spoof site pretending to be official. 

The post 9 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About TSA PreCheck & Global Entry appeared first on SmarterTravel.

These five items are perfectly legal to bring onboard a plane, but they can look suspicious on a scanner, triggering a bag search.

Food

Cheese, sausage, rice, bread, peanut butter—these tasty foods can look similar to explosives on a scanner and cause your bag to be searched. If you’re bringing food that’s dense or paste-like, be sure to send it through the X-ray machine separately to make it easier to screen. 

And remember, anything that is close to a liquid (like peanut butter) can only be packed in a carry-on in quantities of 3.4 ounces or less. 

Powders

Packing large amounts of protein powder, souvenir spices, or baby powder? According to the TSA, “Powder-like substances greater than 12 oz. / 350 mL must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening and containers may need to be opened.”

The TSA also encourages travelers to pack powders in quantities of more than 12 oz. in checked bags. 

Cords

Disorganized travelers, be careful when you pack your chargers—big clusters of tangled electronic cords can look suspicious during screening. Try to neatly pack your charges and cords separate from one another—you’ll pass through security faster and also be less annoyed trying to detangle everything at your destination. 

Books and Magazines

Concealing a weapon or illegal item inside a hollowed out book is a common trope in movies—but it’s actually based in fact, as X-rays have trouble seeing through thick books or glossy magazines.

According to the TSA, “Books often require additional screening. The TSA officer may ask you to remove them from your carrying case to conduct a physical inspection.” Save time by sending your reading material through the scanner separately, or at least packing them on the top of your bag for easy access. 

Large Quantities of Gels or Liquids

There’s no limit on the amount of gels and liquids you can pack in a checked bag (except for highly flammable hard alcohol), but bringing large quantities of things like toothpaste, sunscreen, or lotions could get your checked bag opened and searched. 

That’s because pastes and liquids, especially in excessive amounts, can look suspiciously close to explosive materials on X-rays. 

The post 5 Surprising Items That Could Get Your Luggage Searched by the TSA appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The following 10 suggestions for what not to do at airport security will make you a savvier flyer, capable of breezing through the checkpoint like a pro.

Don’t Bring More Than 3.4 Ounces (or 100 Milliliters) of Any Liquid

This may be obvious to frequent flyers, but even though the so-called 3-1-1 rule went into effect back in 2006, inexperienced travelers still show up with full-sized bottles of shampoo, water, and other liquids in their carry-on bags. Each time this happens, a TSA agent has to pull the bag off the security belt, call the passenger over, search the bag, scold the passenger, and throw the bottle out, thus slowing the security line down—and earning the offender annoyed head shakes from those stuck waiting.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, including medications, breast milk, and baby formula. If you’re flying to the United States via a connecting flight from overseas, you may carry full-size duty-free liquids as long as they’re sealed in a secure, tamper-evident bag by the original retailer, they were purchased within the past 24 hours, and you have the receipt.

For more information on what you can and can’t bring through airport security, check out this comprehensive Airport Security Q&A.

Don’t Leave Liquids and Gels Deep in Your Carry-On

One surefire method to slow a security line down is to waste time digging through your carry-on for items that need to be placed in the bin individually. Putting travel-sized liquids into a clear, see-through quart-sized bag is not enough. Keep the bag stored in a handy place—such as an external compartment on your carry-on—so all you have to do is reach in and grab it. Note that although electronics and liquids are increasingly allowed to remain inside carry-on luggage thanks to new technology, it may not be the case at every checkpoint.

Even TSA PreCheck members, who may be used to not having to take out their electronics and liquids, may be selected for a secondary screening and should be sure to keep these items easily accessible.

Don’t Forget to Have Your Boarding Pass and ID Handy

Similar to the above, you don’t want to be pulling out your wallet to grab your ID while you’re standing in front of the security agent. Do that while waiting in line or, better yet, before you even get in line. You’ll not only make things faster for yourself and those behind you, but you also won’t annoy the security agent.

Don’t Wait to Take off Your Belt, Watch, Jacket, and Shoes

If you haven’t caught on to the “be prepared” mantra yet, here it is again. The best way to move through security as fast as possible is to have everything you need out and ready to be placed on the conveyor belt as soon as you get there. If you’re wearing a belt or watch, take it off while you’re in line. Same thing with your jacket and even your shoes if possible, especially if they’ve got shoelaces—at the very least, have your laces untied so all you have to do is slip your shoes off. Caveat: Seniors over the age of 75, kids under 13, and those who have TSA PreCheck may leave their shoes and light jackets on.

Don’t Remove Items You Don’t Need to Remove

One of the most common airport security mistakes is to take out all your electronic devices to be scanned separately. You don’t need to do this. According to the TSA, only electronics larger than a cell phone must be removed from their carrying cases and X-rayed separately. This does include laptops and tablets, but it doesn’t include phones or electric toothbrushes. TSA PreCheck members don’t have to remove electronics for separate screening.

Also, in most cases you do not need to remove your jewelry before going through security. If you’re wearing numerous or particularly bulky items, you might want to take them off, but smaller pieces such as wedding rings and earrings can usually stay on. If you set off any alarms, the screening agent will work with you to determine the problem, which might or might not require jewelry removal.

Don’t Wear Sandals

Do you really want to expose your bare feet to whatever’s on a filthy airport floor? Yes, sandals are easy to slip on and off, but they’re not worth a potential case of athlete’s foot if you have to take your shoes off for screening.

Don’t Overlook Less Busy Checkpoints

Most large airports have multiple checkpoint entries for any given terminal, and some may be busier than others at certain times of day. The TSA offers travelers an app called MyTSA that you can use to check security wait times based on historical data. Just be sure you actually can reach your gate via the checkpoint you’ve selected.

Don’t Give the Security Folks a Hard Time

You may think your trial shampoo bottle is smaller than 3.4 ounces, or maybe the last time you went through security, no one cared that your mascara wasn’t in a clear bag. All that matters is what they’re telling you this time. While the particular TSA agent demanding you give up your “contraband” very well may be in the wrong, at that moment he or she has all the power, and arguing isn’t going to get you anywhere but possibly detained.

Don’t Joke About National Security or Bombs

Technically, cracking jokes about national security at an airport is not illegal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in trouble for doing it. There are numerous cases of passengers being arrested after joking about explosives or bombs while being examined at security. You may think your joke is funny or harmless, but remember, the TSA has no sense of humor when it comes to doing its job. Always err on the side of caution.

Don’t Forget About the PreCheck Program

The TSA’s PreCheck program is a risk-based prescreening system that allows frequent flyers to apply for access to a restricted—and faster—airport security lane. The application process is essentially an in-depth background check, but once cleared, PreCheck flyers no longer have to remove their belts, shoes, or lightweight jackets, nor must they place their 3-1-1 compliant plastic bag and laptop in separate bins.

PreCheck lanes are currently available at more than 200 airports across the United States. Do you often travel internationally? Consider Global Entry, which includes PreCheck membership as well as expedited re-entry into the United States. Read SmarterTravel’s summary of Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck to learn more.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Dori Saltzman contributed to this story.

The post 10 Things Not to Do at Airport Security appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Staying hydrated while traveling is key to feeling good, but you can’t bring a bottle of water through airport security… or can you? The secret to bringing a full bottle of water through TSA is simply freezing it. 

Water in any quantity is allowed through airport security as long as it is frozen solid. A TSA Spokesperson told SmarterTravel, “Frozen water bottles are allowed in carry-on bags. The containers can be more than 3.4oz each as long as the item is completely frozen solid when presented for screening.” 

However, this trick only works for fully frozen liquids. The TSA clarifies, “If it’s slightly melted, slushy, or there’s liquid in the bottom of the container, it must be 3.4oz or less.”

If I’m traveling a far enough distance from the airport that my water will be partially melted by the time we get to TSA, I simply drink the small amount of water that’s collected at the bottom right before I go through security screening to avoid any hassles.

Once you’re past airport security, allow your water to melt (topping up the frozen part with water from a bottle refilling station can help it melt faster), and you’ll have ice-cold water for your journey—for free!

The frozen water bottle trick can also be useful if you want to bring food through airport security. If you’re bringing in a meal that you want to keep cold, pack a small cooler and use frozen water bottles instead of ice packs. It will keep your food at a safe temperature, and you’ll also have a nice drink to accompany your meal once the ice melts. (Just remember that the 3-1-1 rule still applies to food, so things like yogurt still need to be less than 3.4oz.)

Of course, if you don’t want to wait for your water to melt, or prefer room temperature water, you can simply bring an empty bottle through airport security and fill it up once you’re past TSA. Most airports have free filtered water stations where you can fill your bottle.

The post Can You Bring Ice Through TSA? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

I’ve gathered answers to these and other common airport security questions to help you figure out your packing strategy under the TSA’s carry-on rules. With air traffic soaring, 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 liquid/gel restrictions only apply to carry-on baggage so you can pack liquids of any size in your checked baggage. However, flammable liquids, such as cooking fuel, are not permitted in checked bags. Alcoholic beverages with more than 24 percent but not more than 70 percent alcohol are limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger in checked bags. These beverages must be unopened and in retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof (with 70 percent or higher alcohol) are not allowed in checked or carry-on baggage in any quantities.

Q. May I bring liquids and gels in my carry-on?

A. Yes, but only in limited amounts. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in individual containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed inside one clear, quart-size, plastic, zip-top bag. Ziploc bags are TSA-approved. You’ll need to bring your own quart-size bag, as the TSA does not provide Ziploc bags.

The TSA emphasizes that containers should fit comfortably into the bag and that only one bag is permitted per passenger. If you must bring more than 3.4 ounces of any liquid or gel substance, it should go into your checked luggage or be shipped ahead.

Q. What Does the TSA Consider a Liquid or Gel?

The TSA considers anything that “has no definite shape and takes a shape dictated by its container” to be a liquid and subjected to the 3-1-1 rule. Some surprising items considered a liquid are:

• Toothpaste
• Peanut butter
• Yogurt
• Makeup
• Energy gels

However, liquids that are frozen solid can be taken through security. According to the TSA, “If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements.”

This means you can take fully frozen ice packs or bottles of water through as long as they have not begun to melt.

Q. What about prescription medications, baby formula, milk, or baby/toddler food?

A. These substances are exempt from the rules above. As long as you declare them at the security checkpoint, you may carry more than 3.4 ounces, and they do not need to be placed in a plastic bag. The TSA recommends but does not require that prescription medications be in their original labeled containers to expedite the screening process. The TSA also makes exceptions for other medical necessities such as insulin, eye drops, or syringes. Just make sure to present these items to the security officer when you reach the checkpoint.

Medically necessary liquids exempt from the 3-1-1 rule include:

• Medicine and necessary medical accessories (including ice packs, freezer packs, gel packs, and syringes)
• Formula
• Breast milk
• Toddler drinks
• Baby/toddler food (including puree pouches)
• Breast milk/formula cooling accessories (including ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs)

Note that your child does not need to be present or traveling with you in order for you to bring breast milk, formula, or related supplies through security.

Before you go through screening, notify a TSA officer that you have medically necessary liquids. Put them in a bin separate from your other items. You also have the right to opt out of having your medically necessary liquids screened by X-ray or opened. The TSA can clear you through additional steps, such as AIT screening or a pat-down.

Q. May I pour shampoo and other liquids or gels into unmarked, travel-size containers?

A. Yes, refillable travel-size containers are acceptable.

Q. Can I bring powders on a plane?

A. As of June 2018, powdered items such as coffee, spices, and baby powder in excess of 12 ounces will be subject to additional screening. The TSA recommends putting large quantities of powder in checked baggage as “Powder-like substances over 12 oz. or 350mL in carry-on that cannot be resolved at the central checkpoint will not be allowed onto the cabin of the aircraft and will be disposed of.”

Q. Do solid vitamins and medications need to be packed in their original containers?

A. While keeping medications and vitamins in their original labeled containers may expedite the screening process, it’s fine to transfer them into more convenient smaller containers such as daily pill minders. There are no limitations as to how much solid medication you can fly with, and Nitroglycerin tablets and sprays are permitted on airplanes.

Always travel with your medicine in your carry-on in case your checked luggage gets lost (or your flight is delayed and you need access to it).

You can request to have a visual inspection of your medication if you don’t want it X-rayed.

Q: What type of shoes should I wear through security?

Consider slip-on shoes that can easily be removed at the checkpoint. Unless you have TSA PreCheck, you’ll have to remove your shoes when going through security. Avoid boots or shoes with lots of metal, which can set off alarms. Don’t forget to wear socks so you don’t have to walk on the dirty airport floor barefoot.

Q. Can I take makeup on a plane?

A. Makeup is subject to the same liquid and gel rules as all other substances—so if you’re bringing mascara, lip stain, concealer, or other liquid- or gel-like items, they will need to be placed in your quart-size plastic bag in 3.4-ounce or smaller containers. Lipstick, 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. Powders, such as blush or face powder, are subject to the rules noted above.

Q. What are the TSA rules for deodorant?

A. Standard stick deodorant is fine to bring on a plane in either your checked or carry-on bag in any size. Spray, gel, liquid, cream, paste, or roll-on deodorant is subject to the liquid/gel restrictions and may not be carried on in excess of 3.4 ounces.

Q. Can I bring food on a plane?

A. The same liquid and gel restrictions apply when you want to bring food through airport security. Even though a TSA representative once told me to “try not to over-think” the guidelines, that can be tricky when it comes to food. 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 me that turkey and stuffing should be solid enough to pass muster, but mashed potatoes are a bit too gel-like. As for baked goods, the latest word from the TSA is that travelers can take pies, cakes, and other bakery products through security—but be prepared for additional screening.

You may bring solid snack foods such as pretzels, potato chips, sandwiches, or carrot sticks for the plane, but spreadable items like peanut butter or hummus are subject to the 3-1-1 rule. Single-serving packages of condiments are permitted as long as they fit within your single zip-top bag. All food must be securely wrapped or in a spill-proof container.

My advice? If you have any doubts about a particular food, either check it or leave it at home. After all, you can always 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. In most cases, yes. However, there are some airports (particularly overseas) where you may face additional screening at the gate before boarding, so you may occasionally have to give up larger bottles.

Q. How does the TSA handle screening for children?

A. Children 12 and under do not need to remove shoes, light jackets, or headwear before going through the checkpoint. If the metal detector or full-body scanner finds anomalies, the screener may choose to let the child go through again and/or swab the child’s hands for explosives in lieu of a pat-down. Children age 13 and up are subject to the same screening processes as adults.

Children will not be separated from their parents/guardians at security. However, you must remove children from strollers and car seats and carry them through the walk-through metal detector. Infants can be carried through security in a sling or carrier, but this may cause additional screening.

Q. Are there any special TSA rules for seniors?

A. Yes. Seniors 75 and older can leave on their shoes during screening (although they may have to remove them if the screener finds any anomalies).

Passengers 75 or older who are unable to stand for screening can be screened through other security methods.

Q. What are the TSA rules for lithium batteries?

A. Loose lithium batteries are not permitted in checked bags. If your batteries are installed in a device (such as a camera), you may pack the device in either a checked bag or a carry-on, but loose lithium batteries may only be transported in your carry-on luggage. Certain quantity limits apply to both loose and installed batteries; for more information, see these FAA guidelines.

Q. May I bring a cigarette lighter on a plane? What about e-cigarettes?

A. Common lighters without fuel are permitted in carry-on or checked baggage. However, you must ensure that the lighter does not accidentally turn on while on the flight. According to the TSA, “Examples of effective measures to prevent unintentional activation include, but are not limited to: removing the battery from the lighter; placing the lighter into a protective case; and/or using a protective cover, safety latch, or locking device on the lighter’s activation button.”

Torch lighters (which are typically used to light pipes and cigars) are prohibited in either type of baggage. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are only permitted in carry-on luggage, not in your checked bag, and measures must be taken to prevent accidental activation of the heating element.

Q. May I bring tweezers, razors, or scissors on the plane?

A. Tweezers are permitted, as are electric razors, disposable razors, and their cartridges. Straight razors are only permitted in your carry-on as long as the blades are packed in your checked baggage. Only razor blades in cartridges are allowed in carry-ons. Scissors are allowed on a plane in your carry-on bag as long as the blades do not exceed four inches; otherwise, they should go in your checked bag. (For travel, consider small folding safety scissors such as these.)

Ensure that sharp objects are sheathed or securely wrapped so that baggage handlers and inspectors don’t get injured.

Q. May I bring needlepoint or knitting needles on the plane?

A. Yes. However, circular thread cutters, scissors longer than four inches, and other needlepoint tools with blades must be packed in checked luggage.

Q. May I bring CBD oil or marijuana on the plane?

A. That depends. If you’re flying within the United States, it is legal to travel with products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC. If you’re traveling internationally, you may be better off leaving these products at home unless you’ve thoroughly researched your destination’s laws and know that what you’re bringing is legal.

Since marijuana is illegal under federal law, it is not permitted on airplanes or at airports. Some airports have “safe harbor” boxes where you can dispose of any marijuana before passing through screening.

According to the TSA, “TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.”

Q. Are security rules different for international travel?

A. The European Union (E.U.), Australia, Japan, Singapore, New Zealand, Norway, and numerous other countries have 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, resealable, one-liter plastic bag.

Most international airports will require you to remove your shoes before going through security screening, and TSA PreCheck does not apply in foreign countries.

If you’re not sure which airport security rules will apply in the country you’re visiting, contact your airline or the local tourist board for advice.

Q. May I bring duty-free liquids in my carry-on bags?

A. Duty-free liquids, such as perfume or alcohol, are permitted in excess of 3.4 ounces under the following conditions:

• The duty-free liquids were purchased internationally and you are traveling to the United States with a connecting flight
• The liquids are packed in a tamper-evident, transparent bag by the retailer
• The bag does not show signs of tampering
• You have the original proof of purchase for the liquids that shows you bought it within 48 hours

Q. May I bring dry ice on a plane?

A. Passengers may bring up to 5.5 pounds of dry ice in either their carry-on or checked bag as long as it’s clearly marked as dry ice and stored in a package that allows proper venting. Airline approval is required to bring dry ice aboard. Ice in your carry-on must be in a solid state when going through the security checkpoint. That said, a DOT spokesperson recommends that travelers avoid packing dry ice in carry-on luggage, as individual TSA agents unfamiliar with the regulations may confiscate the substance.

Q. I have a hearing aid, wheelchair, CPAP machine, pacemaker, or another medical device. How will this be handled during my security screening?

A. Although there have been horror stories about the TSA’s treatment of flyers with disabilities and medical conditions, most security officers are discreet and professional. As soon as you approach the TSA agent, disclose your medical issue so that he or she can determine the best way to screen you and any equipment you may be carrying. The TSA does not require travelers to carry a doctor’s note describing their condition, but having this written description may help expedite the screening process.

Passengers with non-visible disabilities and medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s or autism spectrum disorder, can be screened without being separated from their traveling companion.

Q. Can I take my pet through airport security?

A. You can take your pet through airport security (make sure you have approval from your airline to bring a pet onboard). When going through security, you’ll need to remove your pet from the carrying case and put the case through the x-ray machine. Your pet must be leashed and remain under your control.

Service animals and their collars, harnesses, leashes, backpacks, and vests are subject to screening. However, you will not have to remove items that are necessary to maintain control of the service animal. If you need to take your service animal outside for a bathroom break, you’ll have to go through security again. You can request to skip the line upon your return.

Q. How early should I arrive at the airport to allow for screening?

A. It’s best to arrive at the airport two hours before a domestic flight, especially if you’re traveling during the summer, the holidays, or another particularly busy time of year. If you’re flying internationally, you should allow yourself even more time (around three hours). For more information, see How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

Q. I forgot my identification, can I still fly?

A. The TSA can confirm your identity in other ways, like searching publicly available databases, so you may still be allowed to fly. Plan for this additional screening to add a significant amount of time. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to fly.

Q. What should I expect at the security checkpoint?

A. You will have to put your shoes, clear plastic bag of liquids, jacket, jewelry, cell phone, keys, and metal items into a bin for screening before you step through the metal detector or the full-body scanning machine. (If you opt out of the full-body scan, you will face an “enhanced” pat-down, which is performed by a security officer of your gender and covers all areas of the body, including the groin, buttocks, and breasts.) You might also need to remove your belt if it has any metal parts. (Consider a belt with a plastic buckle to avoid this.) Laptops, tablets, and other electronics larger than a cell phone should be removed from their cases and screened individually.

Save time by putting metal items into your carry-on before you get to the checkpoint, taking your electronic items out of their cases, and wearing easily removable footwear.

TSA PreCheck members do not have to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, or light jackets for screening.

Q. Can I keep on head coverings and other religious items on during screening?

A. Head coverings, loose fitting, or bulky garments can be left on during screening. However, these items may trigger additional security screening, including a pat-down. If the alarm cannot be resolved through a pat-down, you may be asked to remove the head covering in a private screening area.

Q. If I go through the full-body scanner once and it brings up an alert, can I request to go through again before having a pat-down?

A. According to a TSA representative, you may request to be rescanned before submitting to a pat-down, but it’s up to the individual TSA officer to decide whether to grant that request based on whether the situation meets security protocols.

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 unwrap them for inspection. Your best bet is to wrap your gifts once you arrive at your destination, or ship them ahead of time. You can also put items in gift bags that are easy for the TSA to examine.

Q. May I bring electronic items on the plane or in my checked luggage? If so, how should I pack them?

A. Laptops, cameras, tablets, hand-held video game consoles, e-readers, and most other standard electronic devices are permitted in both checked and carry-on luggage. (It’s best to keep them in your carry-on to reduce the risk of loss or theft.)

As noted above, you should be prepared to remove most of these devices from their cases at the security checkpoint. Because electronic items tend to be frequent targets for security screening, you might 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.

You do not need to remove phone chargers or cables at airport security.

Q. Can I lock my checked suitcase?

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. Baggage screeners will simply cut off non-approved locks if they need to get into your bag. For more information, see Luggage Locks: Should I Lock My Suitcase When I Fly?

Q. What happens if I forget an item at airport security?

A. Contact the lost and found department at your airport if you lose an item at the security checkpoint.

Q. What are the screening procedures for transgender passengers?

The TSA has gender diversity guidelines in place, and transgender persons will be screened as they present at the security checkpoint. “The advanced imaging technology used to screen passengers has software that looks at the anatomy of men and women differently,” says the TSA. “If there is an alarm, TSA officers are trained to clear the alarm, not the individual.”

You can request a private screening if that is more comfortable for you.

Q. Can I film and take photos at a security checkpoint?

A. Photographing, videotaping, and filming are allowed at security checkpoints “as long as the screening process is not interfered with or sensitive information is not revealed.” You cannot hold a recording device up to the face of a TSA officer, block the movement of others while filming, or take video/photos of equipment monitors shielded from public view.

Q. Is there a faster way to get through security?

A. Yes. Consider signing up for TSA’s PreCheck program, which offers access to expedited security lines. If you frequently travel internationally, consider getting Global Entry instead, which includes PreCheck membership. To learn more, see Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck: Which is Better?

Q. Where can I find more information about airport security?

A. Check TSA.gov for packing tips, a searchable list of permitted and prohibited items, and information for travelers who require additional assistance or accommodation.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Caroline Morse Teel contributed to this story.

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But being older does often mean that you can’t travel the way you used to. We’re not talking about upgrading from a hostel to a proper hotel. What we’re referring to are physical limitations you might need to work around, as well as the fact that as an older individual you’ve suddenly become numero uno on a thief’s hit list.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your belongings.

Get Insurance

While travel insurance is important for people of any age, it truly is essential for older travelers who are more at risk of falling and hurting themselves, getting sick, or needing extra medication if their travel is interrupted or delayed.

“Nothing is worse than to be in a foreign land and find yourself in a situation where you have fallen or run out of medication and not knowing what to do or if you’ll be covered,” says Liz Dahl, co-founder of Boomer Travel Patrol, a boomer-centric website featuring expert advice from a variety of writers. She adds that insurance usually costs an extra $100 – $200, not a lot to guarantee that you’ll be covered if something goes wrong.

Don’t Advertise Your Absence

Though travelers assume hotels are safe places, the truth is that people with bad intentions can come and go quite easily in most hotels. But a few tactics can help older travelers, who are often seen as better targets, protect their belongings. One tip Dahl offers is this: Don’t put the “clean my room” sign on your hotel door.

“Those signs are an open invitation to let people know that the room is empty,” says Dahl. Thieves know that travelers usually leave their passports, extra money and jewelry in their rooms, and they know how to jimmy open locks. You don’t want to advertise that you’re not there. Instead, call the front desk on the way out and let them know you’ll be leaving and that they can send someone up to clean the room.

A few other hotel tips recommended by AARP include engaging the security chain on your door whenever you’re in the room, asking for a room near the elevator (more foot traffic will deter thieves) and staying away from ground-floor rooms where window entry is possible.

Watch What You Eat

Like it or not, older folks tend to have more sensitive tummies and are frequently on restricted diets. It’s understandable to want to forget those facts while away from home, but doing so could have undesirable side effects. Forget the days you could eat a plateful of heavy bratwurst in Germany or spicy vindaloo in India. Unless you want to spend more time in your hotel room than out and about, you’ll probably want to keep the heavy, spicy or cheesy items to a minimum.

Also, Dahl points out that some medications don’t interact well with certain foods. For instance, you don’t want to eat bananas if you’re on an ACE inhibitor. If you are taking any medication, call your doctor before you leave for a trip to find out if certain foods popular in your destination are off limits.

Mind Your Meds

Speaking of medicine, Steven Hanson—senior editor of Senior Travel Expert, which provides tips for seniors who like to travel independently—says senior travelers need to take as much care with their medications as they do their money and passports. Don’t pack them in checked luggage, and don’t leave them lying in the open in your hotel room. And always make sure you’ve got enough medicine to last you an extra day or two, just in case your flight home is delayed.

Hanson also advises keeping a paper with the names of any essential medicines you take and their dosages so you can try to replace them if needed. If you take a brand-name medication, write down the generic name too. Even better: Try to find out the name of the medication in the language of the destination you’re traveling to.

Keep the Bling to a Minimum

One of the perks about getting older is that you can afford things you may not have been able to when you were younger. But carrying items like nice jewelry, gold watches and fancy cameras makes you a target for thieves, especially as many ne’er-do-wells believe—rightly or wrongly—that older travelers are less aware of their surroundings, more unsteady on their feet and basically all around easier targets.

This applies to carrying cash as well. Hanson notes that, “Seniors are more likely to carry cash around … and more likely to have expensive jewelry and watches than younger travelers.”

Keep Others in the Loop

If you’re going to be traveling solo, AARP recommends that you keep others apprised of your daily itinerary, including your innkeeper or hotel concierge. Tell them where you’re going and when you expect to be back; then stick to your schedule. Keep a cell phone on you at all times.

Stay Safe on Your Feet

Beyond wearing comfortable shoes in order to get through full days of walking and touring, wearing flats will also help older travelers to stay steady on their feet. Heels, even small ones, can make you more prone to spraining an ankle or falling, Dahl said, especially if you have any balance issues.

Flats will help you stay comfortable and balanced. “They don’t have to be ugly, just flat,” Dahl added.

Dori Saltzman contributed to this story. This content is adapted from an article originally published under Independent Traveler.

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Why You Should Always Block the Peephole in Your Hotel Room 

Although peepholes are designed to offer a one-way view from inside your room to the exterior, they can be reversed fairly easily—allowing anyone outside of your room to see in.

A recent viral video shows a guest checking the peephole in her room at a Las Vegas hotel, only to discover that it offered a clear view inside her room. 

There was also the famous case of reporter Erin Andrews, who was the victim of a similar hotel room peephole tampering. In this incident, Andrews was illegally filmed through her room’s peephole.

Even if your peephole hasn’t been tampered with, there are small devices available called tactical door viewers that can reverse the visibility of peepholes without altering the peephole itself. 

How to Protect Yourself

There are a few simple ways you can cover the peephole in your hotel room while still making it easily accessible in case you need to see out. 

• Stuff a small piece of paper inside the peephole
• Cover the peephole with a bandaid
• Use a tissue or piece of toilet paper to block the peephole

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Rideshare Safety Tips for Travelers

Make these 11 rideshare safety tips part of your routine, whether you’re traveling around your hometown or in a new and unfamiliar destination.

Share Your Trip

When traveling alone, especially at night, always share your trip with others. It’s the easiest and quickest way to let someone track your whereabouts in case something happens during your ride. The person you share your trip with will get a notification to their phone and be able to follow along via GPS. To do so, hit the “Share trip status” option with Uber and “Share ride details” with Lyft.

Give Feedback

This is an often overlooked part of rideshare safety, but an important step to take once your ride is complete. Post-trip, make sure to rate your driver and leave helpful feedback so you can keep good drivers on the road and bad ones off.

Keep Your Personal Info Confidential

There’s no harm in exchanging pleasantries with your driver, but avoid giving them any personal information, like how long you’re traveling for, where you live, your phone number, or any other contact information.

Request Your Ride While Inside

If you can, request your ride while indoors to avoid lingering outside too long with your phone out, which may attract thieves or pickpockets.

Confirm Your Driver and Car Before Getting In

There are some reported cases of scammers posing as rideshare drivers, so always confirm the license plate and name of your driver before getting in, and check their appearance against the photo in the app. And, if you’re getting picked up in a popular area, like an airport, this will also avoid accidentally taking someone else’s ride. 

Pro tip: Always ask a driver for the name of the passenger before you get in the car instead of saying your name first. This way, you can be 100 percent sure that person is your driver.

Wear Your Seatbelt

Just because you’re in someone else’s car or riding in the back seat doesn’t mean you’re at less of a risk of being in an accident. Always buckle up—drivers appreciate it. Under Uber’s description of “Your Rating” you’ll find that wearing your seatbelt is listed as an item that helps your passenger rating. 

Sit in the Back Seat

If you’re traveling alone, always choose the back seat. According to Dave Sutton, spokesperson for Who’s Driving You?, a public safety campaign from the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association that promotes for-hire vehicle safety, “Many of the incidents that we’ve seen … have happened to passengers riding up front.”

Check Your Driver’s Rating

Both Uber and Lyft allow passengers to rate drivers on a scale of one to five. Always double-check that your driver has prior experience and a rating as close to 5.0 as possible (over 4.8 is generally pretty good). Uber and Lyft may deactivate drivers whose ratings fall below a certain standard.

Never Pay Cash

A driver should never ask you to pay cash for your ride. Both Uber and Lyft give you an option to tip through the app after your trip, so there’s no need to have your wallet out during a rideshare.

Know Your Surroundings

If you’re in an unfamiliar city or area, make sure to track your route on your own maps app to ensure the driver is following the correct route. If you’re getting picked up from the airport, be sure to follow the prompted instructions when you open the rideshare app.

This also goes for the neighborhood and time of day you’re requesting a ride. Be smart and aware of open businesses around you and avoid calling rideshares alone late at night. If you’re getting picked up from a bar or restaurant, pay extra attention to these tips.

Call for Help

Both Uber and Lyft have emergency buttons that let you call 911 directly from the app if something goes wrong. The apps will display your current whereabouts so you can share them with the dispatcher during your call.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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The Floors You Should Never Stay On

Avoid staying on the first or second floors of a hotel, as they are easier for criminals to break into from exterior windows or balconies. 

Travelers should also steer clear of staying on high floors as well, if possible. 

Kevin Coffey, Travel Safety expert and retired member of the Los Angeles Police Department  (LAPD) explains, “Generally, fire departments in major cities have aerial ladders that can reach six to seven stories.” If you’re staying on a higher floor (that the ladders can’t reach) and there is a fire that blocks your exit through the stairwells, you could be trapped. Additionally, staying on higher floors means you will need significantly more time to evacuate a building in the event of an emergency than if you were on a lower floor. 

Coffey notes that this advice is for “Major westernized cities that have modern firefighting equipment.” Coffey says, “In some international under-developed cities and countries, this could be limited to floors 3 to 4, depending on the fire equipment.”

Which Hotel Floors Are the Safest To Stay On?

Floors three through six are generally the safest floors to stay on in cities with modernized fire fighting equipment, or floors three to four in destinations without. These levels are the sweet spot of being in a good position to evacuate quickly, without being easily accessible from the outside. 

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