We all love advice, we look for treasures and tidbits that we haven’t thought of or forgot or even better, something new we can definitely incorporate and own!  We all want comfort travel.

Comfort travel means taking things you can occupy your self with during a long or short flight. Here’s the answer on a few items you might wonder about.

First off, TSA is never, in our experience, consistent. Human judgement, behavior and prejudices are always going to be around.  But, with more changes come more items being approved for going through TSA checkpoints and believe it, do the math, it’s going to be busier than ever even with up to 2,000 officers for example, this upcoming Labor Day week-end with over 263 million fliers.  Are you going to be one of them?

Let’s go over what is now OK to carry on to avoid confrontations and make it easier on what can and can not go through their scanners.  Also, here’s the TSA database on “What Can I Bring?” https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all   Go ahead and search any item there to determine if it’s carry-on worthy or checked bag worthy. Still not sure tweet your question to: @AskTSA or message AskTSA on Facebook.

New On The OK List:  CBD oil – new item on their OK list. TSA says, “Products and meds with hemp-derived CBD are approved by the FDA that are legal if produced within the regulations defined by the law under the Agriculture Improvement Act 2018.” It’s still a federal crime to be in possession of Marijuana so the TSOs [Transportation Security Officers] can refer anything they see that is potentially illegal or questionable to the appropriate authorities.

. Knitting needles: sharp objects in checked bags and wrapped securely to prevent inspector injury.
. Canes: must do X-ray screening, TSA will inspect if it cannot fit machine
. Tents: check with airline, tent stakes and poles are checked in
. Umbrellas: allowed in carry-on bags
. Insulin and insulin supplies: notify TSA officer of condition and your supplies. All dispensers must be clearly marked
. Liquid medications: liquids, gels, aerosol medications greater than 3.4 ounces must be declared to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
. Sand, rocks, seeds, plants: domestic OK in either
. Medical marijuana/CBD: not searched for but if illegal substance is discovered, TSA will refer to law enforcement.
. Yogurt: must be less than 3.4 ounces
. Small fishing lures: large hooks should be wrapped in checked luggage. Expensive reels or fragile tackle may be in carry-on
. Dry batteries: AA, AAA, C and D, not lithium varieties

Checked bags only:
. Golf clubs, (balls and tees can be carry-on)
. Canoe/kayak paddles
. Walking sticks

Carry-On:
. Vape/E-cigarette.
. Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery.
. Disposable/Zippo lighters. No matches in either carry-on or checked-in
. Small pets: allowed through the checkpoints, no scan required.
. Pet carrying case: goes through X-ray, animal through metal detector

Reminder:
. a MUST: 3-1-1 liquid rule, pack liquids in front pocket of carry-on for accessibility.
. liquids, gels and aerosols must be stored in 3.4-ounce containers or less and fit in a quart size clear plastic zip-top bag; one per passenger
. tape a card with your name and contact info to your electronics.
. use packing bags!
. money at the checkpoints: don’t forget it! Here’s a fact: in 2018 travelers left behind over $960,000

Our TOP TIP: Enroll in PreCheck Program and Global

PreCheck offers an expedited security screening and doesn’t require passengers to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets. In April 2019, 93 percent of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes in line, according to TSA.  In non-precheck lines passengers wait less than 20 minutes on an average day, says one TSA spokesperson.  Joining requires an $85 (for five years) fee.

What to watch for: Computed Tomography (CT) technology is being piloted in the standard checkpoints at some airports across the country. This means travelers won’t have to remove laptops, tablets or phones from their luggage.

What are some of the craziest things you’ve ever seen TSA agents pull from someone’s suitcase near you? AND what was the last thing you tried to go through TSA with in question?

Ask about our comfort menu with our travel packages that includes options like ear plugs, luggage wraps, essential oil tips, beach bags, beach balls, pens and sunglasses!

Pamela (PJ) Ott, Wild Side Destinations

pj@wildsidedestinations.com 503-260-0557