In some cases, this is a mistake that can be easily rectified if you know what to do. In other situations, there’s nothing you can do to get expedited screening. Here’s what you need to know if you don’t get PreCheck on your boarding pass despite being a Trusted Traveler program member. 

Why Didn’t I Get TSA PreCheck on My Boarding Pass if I’m a PreCheck Member?

There are five reasons reasons that your boarding pass won’t show the PreCheck symbol if you’re a PreCheck/Global Entry member:

Your Known Traveler Number Isn’t Attached to Your Booking

The first reason is that the airline may not have received your known traveler number. This is the number that you’re issued when you become a member of a Trusted Traveler Program (like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry). Sometimes, the airline doesn’t ask you to input this number when buying a ticket, or there was an error and the number didn’t transfer from your frequent flyer profile to the reservation.

You can fix this by calling the airline and asking them to add your known traveler number to your reservation and reissue the ticket. You can also try adding the number yourself online and re-downloading your boarding pass, but you might have to call the airline in order to get the ticket reissued so the TSA PreCheck logo populates. 

You’re Flying an Airline That Doesn’t Participate in TSA PreCheck

Not all airlines participate in the TSA PreCheck program, so if you’re flying with a carrier not on this list, you won’t be eligible for PreCheck despite being a member. 

Your Membership Has Expired

Before you get mad about your lack of PreCheck, double check that your membership has not expired. You can look up your membership status here.

There’s an Error on Your Booking

A typo in your name, date of birth, or Known Traveler Number will throw off the system and prevent you from being issued TSA PreCheck. Carefully review the information on your boarding pass and airline profile and make sure it exactly matches your Trusted Traveler profile. Even something as small as a hyphen can trigger an error. 

You’ve Been Randomly Selected for Extra Screening

As an extra security precaution, the TSA does not guarantee that trusted travelers will receive PreCheck every time they fly. According to the agency, “TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travelers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening.”

What Should I Do if I Didn’t Get TSA PreCheck on My Boarding Pass?

If you’ve checked that your reservation has your correct Known Traveler Number, date of birth, and name—and your membership is still valid—you can submit an online form asking the TSA to look into why you didn’t get PreCheck on your boarding pass.

The TSA asks that flyers complete the form three days before travel so that they have time to troubleshoot the issue, but this can be challenging since you generally can’t check-in online more than 24 hours before your flight. If you need urgent help, try contacting @AskTSA on Twitter (X) or Facebook Messenger. 

The post Why Didn’t I Get TSA PreCheck on My Boarding Pass if I’m a PreCheck Member? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

From how to get more than a 30-day supply of pills to what you’ll need from your stateside doctor to get a prescription abroad, here’s advice from international healthcare experts about traveling with medication.

Bring a Note from Your Doctor

Dr. Christopher C. Hollingsworth, MD, a general and endovascular surgeon who has practiced in Europe and the United States, says it’s unlikely you’ll get stopped at customs or border control because you’re carrying more than a month’s supply of medicine. However, having an official prescription on hand when traveling with prescription medication is never a bad idea.

“In general, countries honor the rights of travelers to transport their prescribed medications with them,” Dr. Hollingsworth explains. As long as you have supporting documentation about your medical condition (ID cards or a letter from a physician), you are unlikely to have a problem.

Dr. Brendan Anzalone, a doctor of osteopathic medicine and the president and chief medical officer at AeroMD Air Ambulance, suggests going digital with these forms, as they can get lost or creased throughout your travels. This will ensure you won’t have to go digging if you’re questioned.

Keep Medicines in Their Original Bottles

Again, while it’s unlikely you will face any sort of issue when you’re flying with medication, Dr. Anzalone still recommends keeping your pills in the original bottle—complete with the sticker on the front with your name and doctor’s name—as an extra safety precaution. “Carrying your medication in [its] original prescription bottle with a label on it from the pharmacy is helpful if there are any questions in the security line,” he explains.

If you don’t have room in your luggage for the full-size bottles and must downsize, you can pack a small day-of-the-week pill organizer rather than several bulky bottles. Ensure you have documentation from your physician to avoid any potential issues. Paul Tanenbaum, R.Ph., a retired pharmacist, offers this tip if your original prescription bottle is too large: “Make friends with your pharmacist and see if he or she could make you a smaller travel-size bottle for you to fill up.”

Learn the Laws Around Traveling Internationally with Medications

The recommendations for domestic trips also apply to traveling abroad with medication. When flying internationally with prescription medications, the U.S. Department of State recommends storing medications in their original labeled containers and bringing a copy of a doctor’s letter to show customs officers and other officials if necessary. The prescription should note the brand and generic name of the drug.

If you’re taking an unusual drug or one that contains narcotics such as sedatives, carry a note from your doctor explaining what the medication is and why you need it.

Note that some over-the-counter drugs legal in the U.S. may be illegal elsewhere. For example, painkillers containing codeine are prohibited in the United Arab Emirates. Always double-check before you fly.

Exercise Caution with Herbal Medicines

Flying with herbal medicines or supplements to international destinations can be tricky since each country has its own laws about what’s allowed in. To find out what may be restricted in the countries you’ll be visiting or transiting through, refer to the embassy website or contact local consulates.

Make sure herbal remedies and Ayurvedic medicines are in clearly labeled, well-sealed containers, preferably in original bottles. Although the TSA doesn’t require it, it may be helpful to bring a doctor’s note explaining your remedies’ intended use. Keep up to date with any changes in TSA rules by downloading its free MyTSA app (iOS | Android).

Always Pack Medicine in Your Carry-On

Now that you have the prescriptions you need and the note from your doc to prove your case, it’s time to pack. Depending on how much medicine you need each day, you may be tempted to shove your pill pack into your checked bag, but Dr. Anzalone warns against it: “It is best to keep medications in your carry-on baggage. If your checked baggage gets lost, you will still have your prescription medications with you. Remember some aircraft cargo holds are not temperature controlled, which may affect temperature-sensitive medications.”

If you’re worried about bringing medication that must be refrigerated (like insulin, for example) on a plane, Dr. Hollingsworth offers the TSA regulations on cool packs that are allowed through the gates. “Domestically, gel-cooling packs are allowed if frozen at time of presentation to security,” he notes.

Liquid medications (prescription or over-the-counter, like saline solution or eye drops) aren’t subject to the TSA’s three-ounce limits. However, you are required to declare anything over that amount to security officers and present it for inspection.

You may also travel with accompanying items, such as IV bags, pumps, and syringes, as long as they’re declared before you begin the screening process. All of these items will be X-rayed unless you request a manual inspection.

Bring Extra Medication

Dr. Hollingsworth’s rule of thumb is to bring twice the amount of medicine you need and to separate the bottles between your carry-on and your personal item. Why? Two words: flight troubles. “Changes or delays can have a butterfly effect that can have repercussions for the rest of your trip. Plan for the unexpected and pack extra medication you might need for an unplanned longer stay,” he says.

Exercise Caution When Flying with Narcotics

If you’re traveling with any type of prescribed narcotic used to relieve pain, such as Vicodin, Oxycontin, Percocet, or codeine, you might want to bring your prescription documentation, as well as a doctor’s note. Though this is not required by the TSA, it may prove helpful when getting through security. Since these types of drugs are widely abused, security screeners may be suspicious if they are unaccompanied by the proper paperwork. Having the original prescription will prove the pills’ necessity, and avoid any further delays or additional questioning.

The trouble of traveling with only a doctor’s note is that unless it was written in the previous month, it may lose validity. Prescriptions are clearly dated and include the signature of your doctor. Simply make a photocopy of each prescription before you have it filled. The photocopied version will be null and void, but this does not alter it as a valid document.

To take extra precaution, you may also want to travel with phone numbers for your pharmacy and prescribing doctor. This may seem like an unnecessary hassle, but it could prevent delays and problems at the airport.

Be Strategic About Your Meds

If your carry-on is just too heavy to meet those puddle-jumper restrictions, Dr. Hollingsworth challenges you to be strategic. While you might want to take your mini-sized bottle of Advil, those sorts of medications are available everywhere.

“Give priority to any medications that are vital to your functioning or survival. Asthma inhalers, diabetic medications, anti-seizure medications, and blood pressure medications come to mind. Make sure to bring medications that have rebound or withdrawal symptoms if you run out,” he says. “A trip is not a good time to see how you function without your arthritis or anti-anxiety medications.”

Consider Travel Insurance

Many factors influence whether you should purchase travel insurance. How long will you be traveling? Where are you going? Will you be lounging by a beach for a week or undertaking adventure activities in a rainforest? Do you have ongoing medical conditions that might need care?

If you’ll need health insurance for your trip, Dr. Quigley recommends exploring your options before heading overseas to determine what policy and plan are best for you. You can also work with assistance companies—like International SOS—to help you if you’re struggling with a health situation overseas.

Make a Date with Your Doctors

If you’re leaving the U.S. for an extended time, in addition to getting foreign currency and shedding tears at your farewell party, you should schedule pre-departure appointments with your doctors. During these visits, get a full physical and begin a discussion about your wellness needs while traveling. Work with your physician to plan for the medications you’ll need. Medical professionals can help you secure more than a 30-day supply of any medicines along with the necessary paperwork. They can also offer advice about what you need to bring to keep your health top-notch.

Find the Loopholes for Refilling Prescriptions Overseas

Dr. Quigley explains that prescriptions cannot be filled abroad, nor can your primary care doctor call in a prescription for you. But there is a way around it: Know the generic forms and other names of the same medicine. Depending on the country, you may be able to get the medicine without a prescription.

As an example, Dr. Hollingsworth was able to walk into a pharmacy in Paris and receive antibiotics for a pal with a serious ear infection—no note required. Even so, packing a few “just in case” prescriptions before you leave will help ease your worries. Your primary care doctor or a travel clinic can help you navigate the options.

Tanenbaum recommends caution: “If you must obtain your meds from somewhere other than your U.S. pharmacy, beware that there is a major problem of counterfeit drugs out there.” He also notes that brand and generic drug names may differ from one country to another: “The same name may be for a totally different medication; if you have to get some while overseas, it may not be what you usually take so that it does not treat your medical condition, and may actually be dangerous for you to take.” Make sure you’re visiting a reputable pharmacist (ask for a recommendation from your hotel or the local tourist board) and that you double-check whether the drug you’re requesting actually treats your condition.

Most Importantly, Plan Ahead

Plan ahead, especially if you are switching time zones and have to take medicine at a certain time of day. “Have a medical itinerary run parallel to your day-to-day travel itinerary. Plan out the nearest towns [to] where you’re going to be and identify the best providers for you based on your specific medical needs. Don’t let it be a fire drill when you get there,” recommends Dr. Hollingsworth. “If you know in 30 days [that] you need to have a prescription refilled, and you know where you will be within that time frame, then research which medical professional will be best for you. Do your homework.” It just may save your trip—or even your life.

Tips to Stay Healthy While Traveling

Want more expert tips and vacation inspiration? Subscribe to SmarterTravel on YouTube!

Lindsay Tigar is a travel and lifestyle writer with a constant thirst for adventure and exploring new lands. You can find Lindsay globetrotting when the mood strikes, making sure to find time to explore both the wine and fitness scene in countries across the globe. Her work has appeared across dozens of outlets; learn more at LindsayTigar.com.

 Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Molly Feltner, Jessica Labrencis, Patricia Magaña, and Michele Sponagle contributed to this story. A previous version of this story had an incorrect spelling of Paul Tanenbaum’s name. It has been corrected. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Traveling with Medications: What You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What Not to Wear in the Airport Security Line

Want to roll through the security line like a pro? Follow the TSA’s clothing rules and avoid wearing the following attire.

Shoes That Are Difficult to Remove

It’s best to wear slip-on shoes in the airport security line. You’ll have to take your shoes off and put them in the screening bin before walking through the metal detector, and flyers fumbling with tangled laces or strappy sandals could hold up the line. Plus, if you’re in a hurry to catch your flight, slip-on shoes will be easy to put back on and thus hasten your transit from the end of security to your gate.

Note that travelers aged 75+ or under 13 may leave their shoes on during screening.

Jewelry or Piercings … or Anything Metal, for That Matter

If you set off the metal detector, you’re in for additional screening—or at least a little extra attention while other travelers stream past you. Everything from metal clothing fasteners and body piercings to keys in your pocket could cause an alarm in the security line.

If you are wearing metal body piercings that cannot be removed, you may request a private screening in lieu of a patdown. (Note: Most wedding rings get through the scanners without setting off alarms.)

Belts

If your pants fall down the moment your belt comes off, don’t wear them to the airport. You can probably imagine why. Flyers must remove belts before walking through metal detectors, so choose a belt-free outfit, or at least be prepared to remove your belt if you want to wear one.

Belts aren’t permitted through airport security because their metal clasps set off the metal detector. However, even if you are wearing a belt without a metal clasp, an agent might request that you remove it anyway. It’s standard procedure.

Coats and Jackets

It’s airport screening 101: Travelers must remove coats and jackets—this includes outerwear like hoodies, sweatshirts, vests, and such—before going through the metal detector at TSA security. It’s perfectly fine to sport a jacket in a chilly airport. Just remember to take your outerwear off and put it in a screening bin before proceeding through the checkpoint.

Anything Offensive

Offensive clothing may get you kicked off a plane, but it could also draw extra attention from TSA agents (though it’s more likely that airline staff, rather than an airport security agent, will ban you from flying due to inappropriate or offensive clothing). Stories of flyers prohibited from planes due to poor wardrobe choices abound, and, for most of them, the trouble occurred after they made it through the screening process. Still, agents may pull you aside for additional screening if they perceive a threatening or questionable message on your T-shirt. Bottom line: If you wouldn’t wear it to a family-friendly restaurant, don’t wear it for air travel.

Loose-Fitting Clothes

Loose clothes aren’t prohibited. But travelers sporting baggy apparel, such as droopy pants, flowy skirts, bulky sweatshirts, or even loose garments worn for religious purposes, may be subject to a pat-down inspection if the agent thinks your clothing might be concealing prohibited items.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 6 Things Not to Wear in the Airport Security Line appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Don’t Pack Valuables in Your Checked Bag

As a general rule of thumb, you shouldn’t pack anything in your checked bag that you can’t permanently part with or that has a high monetary value. If you need to check your bag at the gate, be sure to remove vital items such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, prescription medications, and—perhaps most importantly—your passport.

Pricey souvenirs that you purchase during your travels should be protected in your carry-on or, if they’re too large, well packaged and shipped home; be sure to get insurance on the package as well as a tracking number so you’re covered in case of loss or breakage.

Don’t Pack Items on the TSA’s Prohibited List

It’s no surprise that fireworks and other flammable items are prohibited in checked (and all) baggage, but did you know you can’t pack certain types of batteries? It’s okay to slip a few AAs in your checked luggage, but loose lithium batteries—such as those used in cameras—must be packed in your carry-on, and wet/spillable batteries (the kind found in cars) are prohibited unless they’re part of an electric wheelchair.

Also verboten: strike-anywhere matches, electronic cigarettes (those can go in your carry-on), and, on many airlines, hoverboards. Double-check the TSA’s list of prohibited items before checking a bag.

Don’t Use a Non-TSA-Approved Lock

If your luggage needs to be physically inspected, a non-TSA-approved lock will be ripped off your bag at security—it’s that simple. Purchase one that’s been okayed by the TSA (which means that security officers can open it with a master key); the lock should be advertised as such on the label.

Use Approved Locks to Get Through TSA Safely and Securely

Although airport security does its best, there is no guarantee all of your belongings will be waiting for you at baggage claim. Save yourself the anguish after potentially getting your items stolen out of an unlocked bag by getting TSA-approved locks for your luggage.

Don’t Leave Any Loose Ends

Be sure all of the compartments and pockets on your bag are securely zipped and fastened, and don’t leave anything hanging outside of it, such as shoes laced to a handle or backpack straps dangling in all directions. These items can easily get caught on the conveyor belt at the airport and get either destroyed or lost.

Don’t Book a Tight Connection

The shorter your layover, the bigger the chance your bag won’t make it to final destination with you. Of course, most times the bag does make it, but the stress of wondering whether or not it will arrive can be eliminated with a longer layover. I recommend at least two hours, or even longer for international transfers that require you to reclaim and then recheck your bag before getting onto your next flight.

Don’t Put Liquids in a Bad Spot

Be careful about the way you pack shampoo, lotion, and other liquids. Leaving your TSA-approved bag of liquids and personal items in the outer zipper pocket of your carry-on is convenient for the flight, but can spell disaster if you’re forced to gate check your luggage. Liquids in outer pockets or at the top of your suitcase can easily break or explode when tossed around by baggage handlers. Cushioning your liquids in the main compartment of your luggage is the safer spill-proof bet.

To prevent other toiletry mishaps, try taping your liquid bottles with duct tape and putting them in a well-cushioned plastic bag. (You may not even need to pack all of them—check which toiletries will be available at your hotel.) If transporting alcohol, roll the bottles up in layers of clothing or bubble wrap.

Protect Against Spills With an Inflatable Travel Bag

The Vinnibag Inflatable Travel Bag keeps your liquids from exploding and your valuables in one piece by creating a buffer of protective air cushioning. Especially useful for breakable souvenirs or small bottles of wine or perfume.

Don’t Travel with an Unmarked Bag

It’s not uncommon for people to grab the wrong suitcase by accident at baggage claim. Make it less likely by tying a colorful ribbon to your luggage or using a unique baggage tag—anything to make your suitcase stand out in a long line of black and navy bags. Even better? Use a bag with a vibrantly colored or patterned exterior.

Don’t Get Too Close to the Weight Limit

On many airlines, checked bags can weigh up to 50 pounds—and if you exceed the limit, the charges rack up fast. If you tend to be a heavy packer, purchase a small luggage scale to help you make sure you’re within the limit. Note that you shouldn’t get your bag down to 49.9 pounds and call it a day; airport luggage scales aren’t always accurate, so you’ll want to allow a little room for error. (Bonus: That’ll leave you room to bring home a few souvenirs, too.)

Weight Your Luggage Ahead of Time

Home luggage scales like this one from Etekcity are lightweight and easy to store—no bigger than the handle of your favorite suitcase.

Don’t Gate-Check a Bag That Can Fit Under Your Seat

It’s typically free to check a bag at the gate when an aircraft runs out of overhead storage space, but only do so if you have a bag that’s worth checking. A backpack or small bag can easily fit under your seat with legroom to spare, eliminating the need to wait around for another piece of luggage at baggage claim.

Invest in an Underseat Rolling Carry-On

This underseat rolling carry-on from Samsonite is just 9 x 13.5 x 16.5 inches, complete with a USB port, 360 spinner wheels, and a padded sleeve for your laptop.

Don’t Pack All of Your Clothes in Your Checked Bag

You’ve probably heard it’s good to pack an extra pair of underwear or an entire outfit in your carry-on just in case your checked suitcase is lost, but here’s another reason to pack clothing in your hand luggage: You might get cold. Airports are often chilly, and in the event your seatmate feels the need to blast the air vent in the dead of winter, you’ll be happy to have a hoodie and maybe even some warm socks to be comfortable on the plane.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 10 Things Not to Do When Checking a Bag appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, a travel insurance provider, just released its annual list of the safest countries in the world. The rankings are created using an extensive methodology that includes surveying recent travelers, analyzing data from the Global Peace Index and the US State Department, and evaluating the GeoSure Global scores of the major cities in each country. These data points are used to calculate a weighted score reflecting each country’s safety. 

Berkshire Hathaway issues an important caveat alongside its safest countries list: “These ratings aren’t predictive—that is, just because we say Canada is safe that doesn’t mean it will rank in the Top 10 in the future. Also, it doesn’t account for the possibility of natural disasters, like the Canadian wildfires.” Inclusion on the list also doesn’t mean that “every part of the company is as safe as any other,” says the company. 

This is the ninth year that Berkshire Hathaway has released this study. Over the years, the company says the definition of a safe place to travel has changed over time. “A safe place was originally a place that’s largely free from terrorist activity. Then it became a place that was safe from disease outbreaks. Now it’s a place where all types of people can move about freely without discrimination or harassment.”

Canada rose from sixth place in 2023 to claim the title of the safest country to travel to in 2024. Canada was ranked highly for safety due to its low rates of violent crime. However, travelers are advised to watch out for wildfires, which have been a major issue in the country in recent years, causing diminished air quality and the potential for health problems. 

The 15 Safest Countries to Travel to in 2024

1. Canada
2. Switzerland
3. Norway
4. Ireland
5. Netherlands
6. United Kingdom
7. Portugal
8. Denmark
9. Iceland
10. Australia
11. New Zealand
12. Japan
13. France
14. Spain
15. Brazil

Safety looks different for every traveler. The study also broke down the safest countries by a number of specific categories.

Safest Countries to Travel to (Safest From Violent Crime)

1. Canada
2. Norway
3. Denmark
4. Ireland
5. Switzerland
6. Netherlands
7. Japan
8. Portugal
9. Belgium
10. United Kingdom

Safest Countries to Travel to (Safety From Terrorism)

1. Canada
2. Switzerland
3. Norway
4. United Kingdom
5. Ireland
6. Australia
7. Denmark
8. Netherlands
9. Portugal
10. Germany

Safest Countries to Travel to (Safety Transportation Safety)

1. Canada
2. Denmark
3. Switzerland
4. Iceland
5. Norway
6. Netherlands
7. New Zealand
8. Belgium
9. United Kingdom
10. Ireland

Safest Countries to Travel to (Health Measures)

1. Canada
2. Switzerland
3. Norway
4. Netherlands
5. Ireland
6. Belgium
7. United Kingdom
8. Brazil
9. Portugal
10. France

Safest Countries to Travel to (Women’s/LGBTQ/People of Color Safety)

1. Canada
2. Norway
3. Switzerland
4. Denmark
5. Ireland
6. Portugal
7. Iceland
8. Japan
9. Australia
10. United Kingdom

The post The 15 Safest Countries to Travel to in 2024 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

• Why Travel Alone?
• How to Travel Alone Safely
• How to Travel Alone as a Woman
• Avoiding the Single Supplement
• Tips for Solo Dining
• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel
• The Best Solo Travel Websites

Why Travel Alone?

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once.

How to Travel Alone Safely

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification—in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt, use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places, especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

How to Travel Alone as a Woman

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

Avoiding the Single Supplement

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel.

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, Exodus Travels, REI Adventures, Adventure Women, and Road Scholar, offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard, and P&O Cruises.

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com.

Tips for Solo Dining

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One.) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL, which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Still, if you’re planning a trip here, you might wonder: Is Cabo San Lucas safe? That’s a valid thing to ask, especially considering that in recent years, the city has experienced the highest crime rate in Baja California Sur.

The U.S. government recommends “increased caution” when traveling to the state of Baja California Sur, where Cabo San Lucas is located. It should be noted, however, that most forms of violence in Baja California—homicides, kidnappings, extortions, and so on—are related to the drug war, so travelers have mostly been spared.

While that’s reassuring to know, it’ll behoove you, before landing in Cabo, Mexico, to be informed about what not to do in Cabo, whether you can drink the water in Cabo San Lucas, what you need to know about swimming in Cabo, plus key information about wildlife like snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas.

Tips for Safety in Cabo San Lucas

• When making your way around Cabo San Lucas, limit your explorations to daytime hours, beware of pickpockets and other thieves, don’t hail taxis off the street, and—as with any destination—if you get into an Uber, share your ride’s progress with a friend or loved one.
• Drinking water in Cabo San Lucas should be restricted only to bottled water and glasses of water poured at reputable hotels, resorts, and restaurants where your server has reassured you that what they’re serving is agua purificada—purified water. And skip the ice.
• In Cabo San Lucas, swimming in the ocean can be a risky proposition. The riptides are fierce, the jellyfish are plenty, and the lifeguards are all but nonexistent. Stick to swimming only at your hotel’s swimming pool, or at a beach that’s known to be safe, most of which are on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula. Never enter a closed beach, and heed all posted signs and flags.
• Some of Cabo’s wildlife species are forces to be reckoned with. Snakes and scorpions in Cabo San Lucas can cause serious injuries and medical emergencies—especially rattlesnakes, yellow-bellied sea snakes, and the bark scorpion. Know how to identify and avoid these species, but if you get bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Worried about bug bites in Cabo San Lucas? The key ones to avoid include the Baja brown recluse and mosquitoes, so wear DEET and pack antihistamines
• Topping the list of what should you not do in Cabo San Lucas: drugs. Not only do they incapacitate you, making you more likely to be targeted as a victim, but if you’re caught using drugs in Cabo San Lucas, the punishment will be severe—Americans charged with drug possession can be kept in a Mexican prison for months before their cases finally go to court..

How to Get Around Safely in Cabo San Lucas

Yes, there are larger security issues going on throughout Baja California, as well as in adjacent parts of Mexico. But in Cabo San Lucas, crimes that affect tourists are mostly relegated to pickpocketing and other petty forms of theft—so hide your valuables, lock your doors, and use common sense when it comes to exploring anywhere off the beaten path or going out after dark. If you get mugged or forced to access an ATM, don’t resist—your physical safety is always more important than your money.

In terms of what to avoid in Cabo San Lucas, the U.S. Department of State recommends that travelers not hail taxis directly off the street anywhere in Mexico. Instead, use hotel transportation services or taxis that have been officially dispatched; unlicensed cab drivers have been known to scam travelers. Taxis are not metered in Cabo San Lucas, so always negotiate the price before getting in, and don’t pay until you arrive at your destination. Taking public transportation in Cabo San Lucas is not recommended either, since buses have been hijacked and theft is commonplace.

Uber runs in Cabo as well, though tensions between taxi and Uber drivers have sparked protests at times. If you decide to use a ridesharing app in Cabo San Lucas, take all the usual precautions: Share the progress of your ride with a friend or family member so that someone always knows where you are. When waiting for your ride, choose a busy, well-lit area. And when your driver arrives, confirm that his or her face and license plate match what comes up on your phone. Then sit in the back seat—never the front.

The American government also recommends that travelers in Mexico “avoid driving alone or at night” and to use toll roads when possible. If you must drive, keep your gas tank as full as possible, carry a spare tire, and charge your phone.

Natural Disasters in Cabo San Lucas

How dangerous is Cabo San Lucas in terms of natural disasters? The region is prone to hurricanes from roughly July through September; if one should hit while you’re there, take cover and follow authorities’ instructions. Baja California Sur is also subject to earthquakes and volcano eruptions, so read up on what to do in case either of those happens while you’re visiting, follow official advice, and pay attention to any and all warnings.

Drinking Water in Cabo San Lucas

Can you drink the tap water in Cabo San Lucas? The short answer: It’s not recommended. The pipes here can contaminate the Cabo San Lucas water, which often causes digestive issues for anyone not used to drinking water in Cabo right out of the faucet.

Instead, stick to bottled water, or ask your restaurant server for purified water—agua purificada—with no ice. (Speaking of drinking in Los Cabos—or anywhere you may travel—never leave your beverage or meal unattended, since spikings are not unheard of.)

Other hygienic factors to keep in mind while traveling in Los Cabos: be judicious with the street food you buy and avoid raw vegetables—similarly to the tap water, these items may be prepared in a way that your digestive system is unused to.

Swimming in Cabo San Lucas

The expansive sea, of course, is the main draw in this part (and many other parts) of Mexico. But is swimming in Cabo San Lucas safe? Not always. There’s much to know before submerging yourself in the Cabo ocean. The fiercest danger is riptides, which make many Cabo beaches unswimmable. Along with rogue waves, they regularly drown strong swimmers, tragically sweeping them out to sea. They can even knock over adults who are standing in water that’s only ankle-deep.

If you do find yourself getting pulled out by a riptide, try to stay calm and swim parallel to the beach into the breaking waves. Should you need saving, try to float, raise one arm up in the air, wave, and call for help.

Most beaches in Cabo San Lucas don’t have lifeguards, unfortunately, but officials often put out colored flags to let beach-goers know where and when swimming in the Cabo San Lucas ocean is safe—and where and when it’s not. It’s critical to obey all posted signs, never enter a closed beach, and know that this isn’t the place to rent or play around in water vehicles, since many aren’t maintained to standard. Instead, swim at your resort’s swimming pool or at a beach that’s well-known to be safe, including several on the eastern side of the Baja Peninsula.

One other danger to be alert for if you’re planning on swimming in Cabo San Lucas: jellyfish. You can wear a Lycra skin for protection, or just consider this just one more reason why you shouldn’t swim in Cabo seas.

Snakes, Scorpions, and Insects: Wildlife Dangers in Cabo San Lucas

Besides jellyfish, there are other animals to be wary of in Baja California. There are 35 species of snakes in Cabo San Lucas, about half of which are venomous. Most people never encounter one, but it’s still good to know what the poisonous snakes in Cabo San Lucas look like: The yellow-bellied sea snake looks like a floating stick in the water, while the area’s 18 species of rattlesnake are identifiable by their signature noisemakers.

Cabo’s snakes tend to hide in rock piles, brush, or trash piles, so avoid those. It helps to wear closed-toe shoes, stay on the beaten path, and carry a travel first-aid kit. If you get bitten, keep the wound below your heart and don’t cut open the wound or try to suck the venom out. Most importantly, get to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

Bugs in Cabo San Lucas are also worth knowing about. The Baja brown recluse spider, in particular, can cause extremely damaging bites. Identify it by its tan to brown color; long, fuzzy legs; and the “violin” pattern on its back.

Cabo has plenty of mosquitoes, too, so wear DEET repellent and pack antihistamines. There haven’t been many cases of Zika in Mexico recently, but the CDC reminds travelers that a risk of the mosquito-borne illness may still remain.

Mexico has upwards of 200 scorpion species, though only eight of those are dangerous to humans. The scorpions in Baja, Mexico, that travelers need to know about include the venomous bark scorpion, which is yellow and about three inches long. You definitely don’t want it to sting you, especially if you’re older or a child. If you do get stung, apply ice and seek medical help immediately.

Scorpions are more active in summer and at night. To keep your life free of them, tap and shake out your shoes before putting them on, shut your bags tightly so they can’t crawl in, and leave them alone if you see them. You can also carry a scorpion toxin antidote, available at some Mexican pharmacies.

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

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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.

Also, 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.

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, electric toothbrushes, or hair dryers. 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 can’t give up your flip-flops, consider bringing a pair of disposable booties to protect your feet.

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.

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.

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

A. Yes, but only in limited amounts. Liquids and gels must be in individual containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed inside one clear, quart-size, plastic, zip-top bag (such as this option from Ziploc). The TSA emphasizes that containers should fit comfortably into your bag and that only one bag is permitted per passenger. If you need to 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 about prescription medications, baby formula, or milk?

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. (You may even want to consider printing out the TSA’s medical notification cards.)

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. You may be asked to remove them if they’re judged dangerous or unidentifiable. Learn more here.

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.

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

Consider slip-on shoes that can easily be removed at the checkpoint. Below are a couple of examples.

Best Shoe for Women to Wear Through Security

Feather Loafer Flat by Steve Madden …MORE

See Details

Best Shoe for Men to Wear Through Security

Classic Slip-On by Vans …MORE

See Details

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 liquid mascara, lip gels (such as Blistex ointment), 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 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. Gel or spray 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, or carrot sticks for the plane, but you might want to hold the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. 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.

Gel packs to refrigerate food are permitted for medication, but otherwise must be completely solid when you go through the checkpoint. If your freezer pack is partially defrosted and there’s any water in your container, the TSA may confiscate the item.

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.

Q. Are there any special TSA rules for seniors?

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

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, while torch lighters (which are typically used to light pipes and cigars) are prohibited in either type of baggage. E-cigarettes are only permitted in carry-on luggage, not in your checked bag.

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. 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.)

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. The TSA does not specifically screen for illegal drugs but will report them to law enforcement if found.

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.

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 as long as they were purchased at a duty-free shop and placed in special tamper-evident bags. Liquids not in these bags must be stowed in your checked suitcase if you have more than 3.4 ounces. Be sure to retain your receipt for the item, as you must be able to prove that you purchased it within the previous 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 stored in a package that allows the venting of carbon dioxide gas. Airline approval is required. 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. Again, consider carrying the TSA’s medical notification cards.

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. For more information, see How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

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.

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.

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. TSA 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. 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.

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Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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

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Forget to Check Your Stamp

Border agents are human too, and they can make mistakes. Before you step away from the counter, quickly check your passport to make sure that they have given you the correct arrival (or departure) stamp with the current date. If something was done incorrectly, it will be much more difficult to fix later on. 

Lie

Afraid a past arrest or criminal conviction will prevent you from entering the country? Lying about it certainly isn’t going to help. Border agents generally have access to records and databases from other countries, so they will quickly be able to see if you aren’t telling the truth in response to a question.

Falsifying information can get you banned from the country entirely, either for a designated period of time or even for life.

Be Rude

Going through a round of seemingly endless questions at the border can be very frustrating. However, being rude or angry definitely won’t help matters. Remain patient and be exceedingly polite in all your interactions with border agents in order to make the entry process go more smoothly.

Take Photos

As you pass through border control in most countries, you’re likely to see big signs warning against taking photos or videos. Follow this direction, as snapping a picture (even if it’s just of yourself entering the country) can land you in trouble. 

Border control is considered a high-security area and taking pictures/videos can make you look suspicious and bring unwarranted attention to your traveling party. 

Joke Around

Jokes about smuggling drugs or never leaving the country might be funny among your friends, but if border agents overhear these comments, you’ll definitely be in trouble. Just like when going through airport security, staff at borders have to take all comments completely seriously, no matter how obvious you think it is that you’re joking. 

Be Unprepared

Always do your research before you leave the country as to what you’ll need to enter your destination. Some countries only accept payments for visas or other fees in cash (in the local currency), so you should make sure you’ll have the correct amount on hand.

Consult the embassy website for the country you’re visiting to determine if you’ll need a visa in advance, proof of vaccinations, or any other requirements for entry. You certainly don’t want to be put back on a plane home right after getting off a long flight just because you didn’t have the right documents. 

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