[scrappinchar]

Okay. I've been planning to use just one carry-on bag and a "personal item" tote.

But, I'm starting to rethink...
I've tried looking on the Delta airlines site, but I haven't seen some of the info I'm looking for.
If I do check in larger suitcase, can I put full-sized shampoo bottles and such in it? What about aerosol hair spray? Tylenol pills?

Then, could I put my laptop and stuff for it in the carry-on? And just have my purse, too. I could put my laptop, laptop tote, camera, cooler, cords, etc in the carry-on.

Does that all sound good?

(Can you tell I'm not a flyer? lol)


Oh...and what about luggage tags? I'm not going to make a pretty one. lol Am I supposed to already have a tag on the suitcase? Do they just stick one on there when I check it? What about the carry-on? Should it have a tag, too?????

[StephRN]

Char, someone will probably come along with better info. As far as I know, you can put full sized bottles in the checked luggage. They may inspect if they see them on xray. They will always inspect if they see food. In your carry on you have to follow the 3,3 rule. 3 bottles of 3oz or less in a ziplock baggy. I believe you can have more than 1 ziplock baggy. You will have to remove your laptop and camera from their bags at the check point for inspection.

I'm carrying my laptop and camera in one bag. My DVD player and DVDs in another with my purse. I'm checking my clothing bag.

I hope I'm steering you in the correct direction.

EDIT: TSA's site says 3 3.4oz bottles in a 1 quart bag, one bag per passenger to be placed in the screening bin. So, it's the 3-1-1 rule. HTH

[Shari PV Mom]

As far as luggage tags go, I just stick my husbands business card or his business address on a tag on the outside of my luggage. They will put a thing around the handle and give you the matching tag for when you claim your bags. As far as carry on stuff ... I don't think I have anything but one of hubby's business cards tucked in somewhere. But my carry-on stuff (especially what I'm carrying my cameras and laptop in) is always with me. And by that I mean, always touching me. The strap is always around one of my arms or legs at all times.

I've been packing today and I've tried to fit all my stuff in a smaller suitcase than I had last year but I don't think I'm going to make it. I think I'll have to go with the bigger bag again but I'm not bringing any of my CS3 books like I did so it'll be lighter. It's just bulky so it's a pain in the rear. Oh well. I've paired down about as much as I think I'm able to at this point.

Oh ... and ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS keep your camera and laptop with you as a carry-on. Even if you have to put your camera and your purse in a bigger bag. If you check it and it gets lost you'll kick yourself something fierce! They also use higher powered x-rays for your checked bags. And if they open your baggage you don't want your expensive equipment being moved around when you aren't there to watch it closely.

[tennismama]

You can pack full-size bottle and spray cans in checked luggage. (At your own risk for spillage...) It's only your carry-on that has to be 3.4 oz or less and contained in ONE quart-sized zip-top plastic bag. You are NOT LIMITED to 3 bottles, just 3.4 oz bottle or container.... below is copied from the TSA site:

3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 oz. container size is a security measure.

Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.

Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.

3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.

Go here for details about what to expect at the airport. http://www.tsa.gov/a...11_brochure.pdf

[AnnBK]

You've gotten good information so far, but I wanted to add and emphasize: DO NOT PACK ANY THING OF VALUE IN YOUR CHECKED BAGS. You are not allowed to lock those bags and stealing from them is rampant in all air ports. We traveled for three weeks in Africa with carry on bags, at one departure point they insisted that we check our larger bags. You guessed it, I had things stolen from it. Nothing of any real value, but I was SOOOOOO close to putting my cameras in it.

[Yvonne53]

Anne is right...do not put anything of value in your checked bags. No matter how honest you want people to be, you will "lose" your valuable stuff. Take any medications (in labeled bottles), your laptop, EHD, CDs, jewelry, etc. in your carry-on. Keep it by your side at all times. Not being to paranoid, I also have a wrist leather (long enough to reach the bag sitting on the floor while I am standing) attached to the carryon because I have friends who have had their "lifted" when just turning their heads away. When you sit in the terminal, stick it between your legs...not on a seat next to you or on the floor next to you. You must be careful, dishonest people can tell if you are a newbie...so act confident. Also, this is just in case...throw a clean pair of underwear in your carryon and t-shirt, just in case your luggage gets delayed and you have to go on ahead of it. I wish I was able to be there to meet you in person, but you are going to love traveling and it will feel like you are a veteran after your first flight. Just remember to be careful. Sending prayers and positive thoughts for a very safe and wonderful trip Charlene.

[goodqueenbee]

Char, You'll do fine.

My main rule is to put at least a change of undergarments in my carryon, in case my suitcase "misses the plane".

My cosmetics /grooming gear are all checked. I hate the 3-1-1 rule and refuse to give them anything to INSPECT.
Almost all my carry on will fit in my laptop case, including tylenol in a small bottle. My handbag will be slipped into
the rear pouch of the SAME BAG, and only my ticket/wallet /id will be in the smallest pocket of the SAME BAG.

I am reserving my "extra carry-on" for my grandson's camera that I am bringing, ever so carefully! It might fit in the
SAME BAG after I get thru security.

Any extra computer equipment will go in the checked bag with minimal clothing changes, and grooming stuff.
The motel has irons, hair dryers, etc.

See you soon! Its a piece of cake (purple cake!!)

[scrappinchar]

Oh boy. Decisions, decisions. lol
Tiny little bottles of shampoo and just the carry-on and tote? Or larger, roomier suitcase? I need to make up my mind soon!

Does the carry-on bag go in the overhead bin thing? And my "personal item" which would be the tote with laptop stay with me at my seat?

[Crabcakes]

Lots of good advice here. I'd just re-iterate that you should carry meds and elctronics (camera, laptop, HD) with you. Always with you. Meds should be carried with you in case of lost luggage. I like to keep with me (what someone else said already) underwear, toothbrush and any meds in case of lost luggage.

A friend of mine went to China on her honeymoon. She had a suitcase full of new Victoria's Secret lingerie, jewelry and her camera in the checked on bags. They had locks on the suitcases (Pre 9/11). The locks were gone, along with ALL the lingerie. The camera and jewlery were left untouched! I guess the Chinese luggage handlers could not resist the lingerie!

[Yvonne53]

Charlene, the carryon goes in the overhead compartment and the extra bag, purse, goes under your seat or the seat in front of you. If you carryon can fit under the seat, put it there. I just shove my purse under my arm in my seat with me. Don't worry too much. You know, you can get shampoo and stuff at the hotel. If you want a certain brand, just get the little sample bottles. But make sure your camera and computer stuff are with you. You do not get to put locks on your luggage any longer and things always "go missing" for some reason, I guess other people's stuff is too tempting.

Anyway, stop worrying, and take just want you need. You will find you don't use everything anyway. Don't overpack!

You will be fine dear one!

[kerryveale]

Charlene,
once the flight starts I don't think passengers are allowed to open the overhead compartments... so keep everything you want to use/do during the flight in your personal bag that is stowed under the seat. And by the way, the airlines are getting really chintzy about feeding the passengers... I am packing a lunch and bringing it with me, since I will be in the air at lunchtime. Most airlines give you something to drink (soda, water) and a small snack (bag of peanuts) for free. Some airlines have a meal available, but there is an additional charge for it.

I am so excited for you and your new adventure of traveling on your own! I'm so glad you have decided to do this! And remember, lots of people are friendly and helpful. I'm sure you'll meet up with some nice and interesting people on your flights!

[princessrunningfingers]

Yvonne53, on 03 October 2009 - 10:32 PM, said:

Charlene, the carryon goes in the overhead compartment and the extra bag, purse, goes under your seat or the seat in front of you. If you carryon can fit under the seat, put it there. I just shove my purse under my arm in my seat with me. Don't worry too much. You know, you can get shampoo and stuff at the hotel. If you want a certain brand, just get the little sample bottles. But make sure your camera and computer stuff are with you. You do not get to put locks on your luggage any longer and things always "go missing" for some reason, I guess other people's stuff is too tempting.

Anyway, stop worrying, and take just want you need. You will find you don't use everything anyway. Don't overpack!

You will be fine dear one!

Yvonne, you can lock your checked bag if you use one of the TSA locks. I do that, because at least it prevents accidental opening. If they want in your bag badly enough, nothing is going to stop them.

[tiza126]

Char...I did buy some of the travel sized shampoo and toothpaste and things like that...but only because it takes up less room. Plus I think the little bottles are so cute

I have a 9:35am flight, so I'll grab breakfast at the airport before I go. I land in SLC around noon, and will be grabbing lunch in SLC airport with Conda. So at least I don't have to worry about inflight snacks, or the lack thereof!

It took me a while yesterday to get everything to fit in my suitcase just right. But I think I have everything packed. The only things in my suitcase are my clothes, toiletries, and some candy/snacks/granola bars for the Guest House....everything else of value is in my laptop case or my purse (I can take both since I'm checking my suitcase). I thought about getting some TSA locks at the store, but so far in all my travels I've never had problems with my luggage or belongings getting stolen. I didn't think about putting spare clothes in my carry-on...so I might need to do some rearranging.

My only concerns are with my laptop stand and my batteries/charger. My laptop stand is aluminum (I think) and collapses/folds to about the size of a hairbrush. I'm worried that it might look like a weapon or explosive devise when it goes through the x-ray...so I don't know if that would be better to put in my checked bag and risk inspection, or put it in my carry-on so I am there to explain it to security? Also, I read somewhere that they prefer you have spare batteries in the carry-on rather than checked luggage, so they are easier to get to in case of fire. So I have to make room for those in my laptop case. Also, I just bought a new battery charger for my camera, so I am carrying that with me as well, because I don't want that getting stolen. The problem is, that adds extra bulk and weight to my carryons.

After flying 6 times by myself in the past year, I feel like a bit of a travel pro....and I have a good system about how to pack and what bag to put everything in. I think I've even mastered the security line procedure, navigating airports, and dealing with cancelled/rerouted flights (which I hope I never have to deal with again!).

Wednesday morning can't get here soon enough...I'm ready to go!!!

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

Yes, if you check your liquids, they can be full size. But they need to be in the checked in suitcase.
Also, if you lock your suitcase, you need to use one of the TSA approved locks. You can pick one up at Target for just a few bucks.

A couple of weeks ago I went on a "traditional" crop and had to pack scissors, paper cutter, etc. And it was all in my checked suitcase. When I arrived in Sacramento and got to my hotel I unpacked. At that time I found a note from the TSA, they had inspected my bag. I'm sure it was a bit suspicsious looking in the xray and so unlocked it. They were very neat this time too, I think they just wondered what those two Cropper Hopper Class Packs were!

That is one thing I really love about computer scrapping, the packing is a lot easier!

So as long as your shampoos etc are in the suitcase it doesn't matter the size. Actually, several years ago, when all this liquid packing problems came up, I stop packing shampoo and conditioner of any size. I just use the hotel's supplied stuff. I don't wash my hair everyday anyway, it really doesn't get that dirty. We're on water restrictions in Califonia, so I figure I'm saving water by not washing my hair everyday.

If you do pack your regular size of shampoo, I'd stick it in a baggie, or make sure it fits in your makeup bag. One time the lid somehow opened in my suitcase, and it was pretty messy!

If you have any questions about what you can and can't pack, go to the TSA.gov website, they've got the answers I'm pretty sure.

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

scrappinchar, on 03 October 2009 - 05:42 PM, said:

Okay. I've been planning to use just one carry-on bag and a "personal item" tote.

But, I'm starting to rethink...
I've tried looking on the Delta airlines site, but I haven't seen some of the info I'm looking for.
If I do check in larger suitcase, can I put full-sized shampoo bottles and such in it? What about aerosol hair spray? Tylenol pills?

Then, could I put my laptop and stuff for it in the carry-on? And just have my purse, too. I could put my laptop, laptop tote, camera, cooler, cords, etc in the carry-on.

Does that all sound good?

(Can you tell I'm not a flyer? lol)


Oh...and what about luggage tags? I'm not going to make a pretty one. lol Am I supposed to already have a tag on the suitcase? Do they just stick one on there when I check it? What about the carry-on? Should it have a tag, too?????

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

Yes, be sure you have a luggage tag on your suitcase. You can get the kind where your address doesn't show. Actually, I use my mailbox address and not my home address. I also usually stick a business card on the inside of the suitcase, just in case. My new suitcase has a builtin luggage tag holder on the back of the suitcase.

They also usually have tags at the ticket counters.

I always have a luggage tag on my carryon as well. Just to be safe.

You'll do just fine!

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

scrappinchar, on 03 October 2009 - 05:42 PM, said:

Okay. I've been planning to use just one carry-on bag and a "personal item" tote.

But, I'm starting to rethink...
I've tried looking on the Delta airlines site, but I haven't seen some of the info I'm looking for.
If I do check in larger suitcase, can I put full-sized shampoo bottles and such in it? What about aerosol hair spray? Tylenol pills?

Then, could I put my laptop and stuff for it in the carry-on? And just have my purse, too. I could put my laptop, laptop tote, camera, cooler, cords, etc in the carry-on.

Does that all sound good?

(Can you tell I'm not a flyer? lol)


Oh...and what about luggage tags? I'm not going to make a pretty one. lol Am I supposed to already have a tag on the suitcase? Do they just stick one on there when I check it? What about the carry-on? Should it have a tag, too?????

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

Actually you can only have ziplock baggy.
Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

StephRN, on 03 October 2009 - 05:52 PM, said:

Char, someone will probably come along with better info. As far as I know, you can put full sized bottles in the checked luggage. They may inspect if they see them on xray. They will always inspect if they see food. In your carry on you have to follow the 3,3 rule. 3 bottles of 3oz or less in a ziplock baggy. I believe you can have more than 1 ziplock baggy. You will have to remove your laptop and camera from their bags at the check point for inspection.

I'm carrying my laptop and camera in one bag. My DVD player and DVDs in another with my purse. I'm checking my clothing bag.

I hope I'm steering you in the correct direction.

EDIT: TSA's site says 3 3.4oz bottles in a 1 quart bag, one bag per passenger to be placed in the screening bin. So, it's the 3-1-1 rule. HTH

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

You can now lock your checked bags if you use an approved TSA lock. But you are right, do not every check anything that is of value that you wouldn't want to lose.

I use the TSA locks and I know it will just keep the "honest" people out. If someone wants to steal from you, he will find a way.


Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

AnnBK, on 03 October 2009 - 07:21 PM, said:

You've gotten good information so far, but I wanted to add and emphasize: DO NOT PACK ANY THING OF VALUE IN YOUR CHECKED BAGS. You are not allowed to lock those bags and stealing from them is rampant in all air ports. We traveled for three weeks in Africa with carry on bags, at one departure point they insisted that we check our larger bags. You guessed it, I had things stolen from it. Nothing of any real value, but I was SOOOOOO close to putting my cameras in it.

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

The carry on bag usually fits in the overhead bin. However, if it is a small plane, the bin may not be as large. I usually put it in the overhead bin, but I carry a bag that I would feel comfortable "sharing" the foot space underneath the seat in front of me. Typically I carry a small purse that can fit in my carrybag so I technically have just 1 carryon item. I've not completly decided on my packing strategy for this trip, but I try to limit the stuff I have to think about or account for when I get off the plane!

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

scrappinchar, on 03 October 2009 - 09:35 PM, said:

Oh boy. Decisions, decisions. lol
Tiny little bottles of shampoo and just the carry-on and tote? Or larger, roomier suitcase? I need to make up my mind soon!

Does the carry-on bag go in the overhead bin thing? And my "personal item" which would be the tote with laptop stay with me at my seat?

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

LOL
Actually they have stopped peanuts for the most part because of the billions of people who have peanut allergies! Apologies to any of you who do!
I fly Jet Blue most of the time and they give out a cookie, or blue potato chips or a dorito snack mix. I usually get the bottle of water and bring my own bag of cashews! For me it is only an hour flight, so it doesn't really matter. But for those of you who are flying further, you might want to check what your airline does offer. If they say "food for purchase" you should be able to look up on their website to see what it is. Some airlines will have "gourmet" sandwiches from a chain or even a nice place. But it is quite expensive.

Some of the vendors in the airports are making "pack lunches" to take on board. Again, more expensive than the peanut butter and jelly sandwich from home, but one less thing you have to remember at home!

You can open the overhead compartments, but it is usually a hassle to get out of your seat and lean over a body trying to get your stuff out. So I try to have it in my hand or the bag that is going to go under the seat.

One thing though that I forgot to mention and this is probably the most important thing ever:, relax, enjoy, have fun and everything will work out just great!

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

kerryveale, on 04 October 2009 - 01:27 AM, said:

Charlene,
once the flight starts I don't think passengers are allowed to open the overhead compartments... so keep everything you want to use/do during the flight in your personal bag that is stowed under the seat. And by the way, the airlines are getting really chintzy about feeding the passengers... I am packing a lunch and bringing it with me, since I will be in the air at lunchtime. Most airlines give you something to drink (soda, water) and a small snack (bag of peanuts) for free. Some airlines have a meal available, but there is an additional charge for it.

I am so excited for you and your new adventure of traveling on your own! I'm so glad you have decided to do this! And remember, lots of people are friendly and helpful. I'm sure you'll meet up with some nice and interesting people on your flights!

[tiza126]

Elizabeth from Long Beach, on 04 October 2009 - 12:12 PM, said:

LOL
Actually they have stopped peanuts for the most part because of the billions of people who have peanut allergies! Apologies to any of you who do!
I fly Jet Blue most of the time and they give out a cookie, or blue potato chips or a dorito snack mix. I usually get the bottle of water and bring my own bag of cashews! For me it is only an hour flight, so it doesn't really matter. But for those of you who are flying further, you might want to check what your airline does offer. If they say "food for purchase" you should be able to look up on their website to see what it is. Some airlines will have "gourmet" sandwiches from a chain or even a nice place. But it is quite expensive.

Some of the vendors in the airports are making "pack lunches" to take on board. Again, more expensive than the peanut butter and jelly sandwich from home, but one less thing you have to remember at home!

You can open the overhead compartments, but it is usually a hassle to get out of your seat and lean over a body trying to get your stuff out. So I try to have it in my hand or the bag that is going to go under the seat.

One thing though that I forgot to mention and this is probably the most important thing ever:, relax, enjoy, have fun and everything will work out just great!

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

The last few times I've flown with Southwest, they have passed out a small bag of peanuts and a small bag of snack mix (sort of like cheese-its or chex mix). That was a nice variety. I usually take a snack with me just in case. With this morning flight, I probably won't want anything more than a cup of juice or coffee.

[Elizabeth from Long Beach]

Oh! You don't know how happy that makes me!


Years and years ago I had a collection of little baskets, real baskets, not plastic, from an airline that I was flying very often! They'd have all sorts of crackers, cheese, etc. in this little basket, and you kept the basket! It was so coolio! And I was only in coach! It wasn't first even. Nowadays you're lucky to get a napkin! LOL


I used to always love the little bag of peanuts and the can of orange juice! I know, I'm really pretty easy to please! LOL

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

tiza126, on 04 October 2009 - 12:26 PM, said:

Elizabeth from Long Beach, on 04 October 2009 - 12:12 PM, said:

LOL
Actually they have stopped peanuts for the most part because of the billions of people who have peanut allergies! Apologies to any of you who do!
I fly Jet Blue most of the time and they give out a cookie, or blue potato chips or a dorito snack mix. I usually get the bottle of water and bring my own bag of cashews! For me it is only an hour flight, so it doesn't really matter. But for those of you who are flying further, you might want to check what your airline does offer. If they say "food for purchase" you should be able to look up on their website to see what it is. Some airlines will have "gourmet" sandwiches from a chain or even a nice place. But it is quite expensive.

Some of the vendors in the airports are making "pack lunches" to take on board. Again, more expensive than the peanut butter and jelly sandwich from home, but one less thing you have to remember at home!

You can open the overhead compartments, but it is usually a hassle to get out of your seat and lean over a body trying to get your stuff out. So I try to have it in my hand or the bag that is going to go under the seat.

One thing though that I forgot to mention and this is probably the most important thing ever:, relax, enjoy, have fun and everything will work out just great!

Cheers,
Elizabeth in Long Beach

The last few times I've flown with Southwest, they have passed out a small bag of peanuts and a small bag of snack mix (sort of like cheese-its or chex mix). That was a nice variety. I usually take a snack with me just in case. With this morning flight, I probably won't want anything more than a cup of juice or coffee.

[tiza126]

I remember the first time I flew by myself...I think I was about 13. My cousin and I flew from St. Louis to Kansas City (about a 45-60 minute flight) to stay with my aunt and uncle for a few days. We were fascinated that we could drink orange juice on the airplane. That was one of the most exciting parts of the trip I still look forward to OJ on the plane!

[Zaz]

I didn't manage to read everyone's responses yet, but I wanted to say that if you bring full sized bottles of anything, make sure they have some airspace in them and put them in a Ziploc bag. If something does happen, they rest of your stuff won't be compromised.

Also, I usually put a piece of paper with my DESTINATION and cell phone number in my suitcase, just in case. I've traveled a lot and never had anything stolen from my suitcase while traveling domestically. A friend had something missing from her bag when we went to Haiti, but we almost expected that. The U.S. has more security cameras than they do in Haiti.

My number one suggestion for air travel, though is to bring gum and water on the plane (you can buy a bottle of water just before you get on the plane after you get through security). I have terrible problems with my ears. I usually take Sudafed if I have ANY congestion whatsoever. If your ears start to bug you, chew the gum or drink the water. It's usually just take off and landing. Sometimes it helps to pull down on your ear lobe as well. I think the lady next to me thought I was nuts on one particularly annoying flight. I must've looked like a mutant Carol Burnett (tugging her ear).

You really will be fine. Enjoy the view. I take photos of the clouds for my DH once they tell you that you can use electronic devices.

See you soon!

[Smiles]

It's a good idea to carry prescription Rx in their original container - always in your carry on bags. Your local pharmacy may give you a smaller bottle with label if you ask. Vitamins you can mix up in travel packs, but ESPECIALLY if you have any schedule 3 meds (painkillers) they really, really need to be in a Rx bottle with your name.
If you have liquid meds (nose sprays, eye drops, Rx creams) they can be in a separate ziptop bag, but have them out for screening. I always tell the screening person what they are as I'm putting them into the bins, so they can advise the person behind the x-ray machine while I'm going through the x-ray gate.
I like the travel sized bottles for size and weight even when I'm not flying. I can fit travel sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, hand lotion, face lotion, and styling stuff all in one ziptop bag.

[PBarnes]

Great tips everybody! I especially like Elizabeth's suggestion to relax and have fun! I've only flown by myself once before (just this spring) and I'm a little nervous, but not too much. Mostly excited!

[goodqueenbee]

ZzzoooooooooooOOOOOOOOMMMM! We are OFF! See you at the "MEETING" in SLC!

[bikeneday]

I am not heading to SLC, but just a heads-up about purchasing water after the security check in. Here in the states that has not been a problem, but when we flew out of Costa Rica last August, we had to relinquish our newly purchased water bottles and had to really beg to keep the one for the baby and his powdered milk. The airline had only small glasses for free, but you could purchase bottles for $2.00. We were flying Frontier. It really threw us all for a loop since we had no idea it was going to be that way.
You all have a great time! Keep us posted on all the fun that is going on each day!

[Art-C]

I agree with Zaz about purchasing a bottle of water for the flight. I have sat in planes on the runway waiting for takeoff for 1/2 to 1 hour before and forget about getting any service. The air is dry on the flights. If I have any congestion, I'll take a Sudafed or something similar in flight so that it's working when the airplane is desending--this is when pressure might build up in your ears and sinuses. I thought you could not take any aerosal cans even in your checked in luggage. I use a little mousse in my hair and my hair is always flat when I travel without it. Oh, and I pack my underwear, etc. in larger ziploc bags in my luggage with the air squeezed out--I feel creepy thinking someone has rummaged through my personal things and I ususally find a TSA paper inside my luggage where they've checked it. I think it makes it easier and faster for them to go through your suitcase.

[scrappinchar]

Thanks for all of the responses.

I've gone from one carry-on bag and one "personal item" tote to one (large, stuffed) checked bag, one stuffed carry-on and one pretty-full tote. lol

I should be leaving my house in less than an hour.
I'm a bundle of nerves. I'm excited about the convention, but I'm nervous about the flight. Paranoid about being away from my family and something happening to me.

[princessrunningfingers]

scrappinchar, on 07 October 2009 - 09:08 AM, said:

Thanks for all of the responses.

I've gone from one carry-on bag and one "personal item" tote to one (large, stuffed) checked bag, one stuffed carry-on and one pretty-full tote. lol

I should be leaving my house in less than an hour.
I'm a bundle of nerves. I'm excited about the convention, but I'm nervous about the flight. Paranoid about being away from my family and something happening to me.

Try to relax and not think about that. Everything will be fine. Statistics show you are safer in the air than in a car.