The rules for when to arrive at the airport have changed a few times in the last couple of years, and even today the required time of arrival will depend a great deal on the airport you're using. Small local airports tend to be more flexible, and you can arrive fairly close to the time of take-off and still be able to board the plane. However, if the airport is fairly busy or if you're unsure of how early to arrive, please show up at least two hours before your flight to check your
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Make sure you know how long it takes to get from your home to the airport. If you're leaving your vehicle there, factor in time to get a parking spot and walk to the terminal as well. Some airlines have policies that allow them to cancel your reservation if you have not checked in and obtained a boarding pass a certain amount of time before take-off. This time is usually twenty minutes to half an hour; make sure to check your airline's policies when planning your schedule.
Checking In and Boarding the Airplane
You should expect to wait in line when checking in at the airport. Many airlines offer timetables on their websites that show peak waiting times and how long the wait is expected to be. Don't attempt to arrive late in order to avoid waiting in line. Be patient, particularly if you are checking bags. Allowing yourself plenty of time will reduce the stress of waiting in line and the fear of missing the flight.
You will be asked to remove your shoes during boarding, and you'll also be required to go through a metal detector. Make this process simple by wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off, and minimizing the amount of metal on your clothing. If you're carrying loose change or keys with you, put the items into a small plastic bag so that it's easy to drop them into the security box and walk through the detector, then pick them up again.
Preparing Your Luggage for Travel
Plan ahead when packing and preparing your luggage before a flight. Make sure that all bags that will be checked are properly secured and tagged with your personal information. If you're carrying holiday gifts, either in your checked luggage or in your carry-on, please wait until you arrive at your destination to wrap them so that airport security can examine them easily.
Carry-on bags cannot exceed a certain size limit (typically 9x14x22 inches). If your bag is overstuffed or is an unusual shape, it may be rejected, even if it technically falls within the size limits. For best results and to minimize stress, choose the smallest carry-on bag possible that still holds everything you need. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag, plus one "personal item" such as a purse or briefcase. Check with your airline if you're unsure of the regulations.
There are many items prohibited from carry-on luggage, and with the rules changing in recent times many people are not aware of all of the restrictions. The following are some current guidelines for carry-on luggage from flights in the United States.
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