| Be at the airport at least 2
hours prior to your flight for a domestic trip, and 3 hours prior for
international trips. Board the airplane as early as you can. If your
connections permit, be at the gate ready to board at least 30 minutes prior
to departure. The sooner you get on the plane the more overhead and closet
space will be available. Carry on all
your essentials. The only sure way of arriving at your destination with all
of your gear is to carry it on and off the plane yourself. Since September
11, 2001 it has become increasingly difficult to do this. For example, fly
rod tubes (especially 3pc or longer) are not specifically prohibited but it
may be difficult for the foreseeable future to carry them on the plane (even
in a JET BAG). The safest bet for carrying your rods on the plane is in a
case that does not require aluminum tubes. Even then, be prepared to check
your rods. It may be unavoidable.
Large flies or hooks are seldom allowed as
carry-ons so plan on checking them. Divide them up and pack them in two
different pieces of checked luggage. Hopefully you won't loose both pieces.
Recent first hand experience is your best source of information on what
security at your local airport is allowing. The individual security agents
have a lot of discretion, so ask the folks at your local fly shop about
their most recent trips. Click on the following TSA link for current
traveling guidelines as well as their list of prohibited items.
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
Pack your undeveloped film in your carry-on
luggage and take it on the plane with you. The x-ray machine at the security
check point will not damage the film but the new, more powerful machines
used to screen checked baggage will.
The hook on your JET BAG is often a great
advantage in getting your gear in the cabin as opposed to checking it. There
is almost always room in the closet of your plane because almost no one
carries garment bags anymore. Flight attendants are hesitant to stack
anything loose in the closet because of FAA safety regulations. However, if
the overhead bins are full you can often show the flight attendant the hook
on your bag and politely ask if you may hang it in the closet. This is the
ace up your sleeve and it works very well (but is not guaranteed). Don't
count on putting any luggage on the floor of the airplane's closet. If it
hangs on the closet rod that's fine: but if it won't hang, make sure you ask
the boarding flight attendant before you put anything in the closet.
Never argue with the flight attendants or
security personnel. Security personnel are now considered federal agents.
Suck up to them if you have to but don't argue with
them. You will never win.
Before you travel check out the
Transportation Security Administration's website at :
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
It's a good idea to check the website of the
airline you are traveling with as well.
|
