Staff Reports
As the holiday season rapidly approaches, many Americans are gearing up to travel to see family, friends, or just escape the daily grind for a bit of festive fun. However, airport security can often feel like navigating a maze while being chased by a bear. But fear not, fellow travelers! With a few simple dos and don’ts, you can glide through security like a hot knife through butter.
First things first, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has made it clear that the number one cause of security delays is prohibited items lurking in carry-on bags. A well-known culprit is that forgotten water bottle hiding in the side pocket. Another big no-no? Wrapped gifts. It turns out that a beautifully wrapped present could raise suspicion. If it looks suspicious, the TSA will have no choice but to unwrap it like a kid on Christmas morning, ruining all that lovely wrapping you painstakingly put together. Instead, consider using gift bags or boxes that can be easily opened on the other side of your journey. Or, save the wrapping madness for your destination!
Speaking of liquid, travelers are well aware of the rules that state you can carry some liquids, but they must fit into 3.4-ounce containers and all must fit inside a quart-sized plastic bag. If you crave eggnog or plan to sneak in delicious spreads, be cautious. If it can be sprayed, squeezed, or spilled, it’ll need to be checked. Nobody wants to have their favorite dip become a sad puddle in the bottom of their bag. Remember, the liquid rule is a classic that everyone should brush up on, especially with the holiday rush bringing out occasional newbies to air travel.
In part two of the holiday travel saga, let’s talk about what happens when things go awry. This holiday season marks the first since the Transportation Department implemented new rules requiring airlines to automatically issue cash refunds for canceled or significantly delayed flights. The catch? Previously, travelers had to jump through hoops to get their refunds. Now, if your flight gets canceled or is delayed significantly, you’re entitled to your money back—even if it was a nonrefundable ticket—as long as the cancellation wasn’t due to weather. So, when the airline offers you a credit and urges you to get on the next available flight, remember you have the right to say, “No, thank you. I’m done here,” if you choose.
How does one define a significant delay, you ask? The magic numbers are three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international ones. If your bags decide to play hide and seek for more than 12 hours after you land (or 15 to 30 hours for international flights), you can even earn a refund on those checked bag fees. Surely, getting your fees back will bring a smile to your face—even if your bag is still somewhere over the rainbow.
So as travelers prepare to jet off, these handy tips can help ensure a smooth experience at the airport. Flying can often be a hassle, but staying informed and prepared can help avoid leaving anyone in a tie between frustration and holiday cheer. After all, it should be about making merry, not fighting with the TSA! Safe travels and happy holidays!
