Flying soon? Here’s what you need to know
The idea of travelling is always about kicking your feet up and relaxing, however, before you reach your destination there is a stressful bit that you have to go through first – the airport’s security check. If you haven’t been on a plane a while, you may not be up to speed on your rights and responsibilities. No one wants to be that person who’s holding up a line of people because they haven’t packed their cabin suitcase correctly.
Here are some tips Left Baggage wants you to keep in mind if you are flying soon:
Know your limits
If you’re taking liquids in your cabin suitcase, you’ll need to be sure they’re under 100ml- otherwise they’ll be confiscated. This includes everything from contact lens solution to hand cream, alcohol, sunscreen, and makeup. Place them in a clear bag (you can get some reusable ones that zip up), and make sure they’re easily accessible so you can quickly place them in the trays provided.
Remember electronics
Your electronics will need to be scanned separately- including laptops and e-readers. Make sure you can easily grab them and place them in a tray by themselves. Don’t be that person who forgets about their laptop and needs their bag re-scanned.
Leave the sharp stuff at home
Scissors, knives, and anything else that can be used as a weapon is straight-up not allowed onboard a plane. We all know why. It’s easy to forget, so check your bags before you leave the house.
Dress for success
Your plan is to get through security as fast as possible. That’s why you’ll want to wear the jeans that don’t require a belt, and empty your pockets before you get in line. You’ll need to take your shoes off when you go through the metal detectors, so wear the types of shoes that are easy to slip on and off to save time.
Know your luggage restrictions
Did you know that United charges £150 for every pound your bag is overweight if you’re travelling internationally? Yes, that is insane. While airlines used to let you away with being a pound or two over, this is no longer the case. Many have installed scales which let you know if you’re overweight when you try to drop your bag off. Many airlines also have restrictions for your hand luggage. Did you know, for example, that Norweigian weighs both your cabin suitcase and your personal item together? The limit is 10kg, which is easy to reach in just your cabin suitcase by itself. Be sure to read up on the luggage restrictions before you fly- otherwise you could be out hundreds of pounds at the airport.