Sure, the airport security lines are longer. But there are some things you can do to ensure that the process moves along as quickly as possible.

As you’re packing for your trip, remember to:

• Leave any kind of liquid or gel at home or in your checked baggage
• Avoid packing or checking wrapped gifts
• Take off any metal clothing accessories (they will set off the metal detectors)
• Leave cigarette lighters and prohibited matches at home
• Put on shoes you can remove and replace quickly

Make sure to carry any valuables, cameras and undeveloped film with you on the flight rather than checking them in. Declare firearms at the ticket counter and have them checked in your luggage. Lock your luggage only with a TSA-approved lock.

At the Airport

As you get near the security screener, place all metal objects, mobile phones, PDA’s, belt buckles, money clips and anything else that might set off the metal detector in your carry-on bag or in a plastic bag, or the TSA supplied bin.

While standing at the security checkpoint, take your laptops and video cameras out of their cases and put them in the bin they’ll give you. Also remove any overcoats, suit jackets or blazers. Remember the new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security measures if you are traveling with liquid, gel or aerosol items.

The TSA has issued the following guidelines for such carry-ons:

• Remember the 3-1-1 Rule: 3 ounce bottle or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per customer placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. The 3 oz. container size is a security measure. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage to make it easy.
• Consolidating bottles into one bag and X-raying separately speeds up screening.
• Prescription medications, baby formula and milk are allowed in quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. But you must declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

For more detailed information, visit the TSA’s web site.

Suggested Arrival Times

Get to the airport no later than 90 minutes before your flight. This will give you time to park your car, endure lines created by heightened security measures and find your gate.

Picture ID

As mandated by the TSA, all travelers must have some form of government issued photo identification, such as a Driver’s License, Passport or government Identification Card. Please make sure you have ID upon arrival at the airport.