USA airline prohibited items list

[SadieKate]

Am I reading this right? No gel cap Vitamin I, no hand sanitizer and no contact lens drops. Yeah, I'll definitely feel safer when I have a headache from the screaming baby, the great unwashed public's germs all over me and my lenses permanently glued to my eyeballs.

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/new-items.shtm

[Kitsune06]

Am I reading this right? No gel cap Vitamin I, no hand sanitizer and no contact lens drops. Yeah, I'll definitely feel safer when I have a headache from the screaming baby, the great unwashed public's germs all over me and my lenses permanently glued to my eyeballs.

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/new-items.shtm

Yup! Mmmmm Freedom!

[Trek420]

I feel so much safer. :rolleyes:

[snapdragen]

Yup. So safe.:rolleyes:

1. Buy table vitamin I (yeah, I prefer the gel caps too)
2. Wear your glasses:eek:
3. Purell makes individual wipes - I carry 'em in my bike bag.



4. Fly naked

[SadieKate]

2. Wear your glasses - Nope, no can do. Can't see with them and I wear 30-day extended wear which begs the questions what the TSA is going to tell folks like us who would have to throw out a pair of contacts.

I have glasses with an old RX. Even when they were the correct Rx, I had a very difficult time driving. Depth of field is screwed up, no peripheral vision and I can't read street signs (or airport signs). You do not want me on the road in a strange town with them.

Never seen the Purell wipes. I'll have to stop at RiteAid on the way. Thanks. I'll pack some alcohol wipes out of the bike stuff just in case.

I go to Scottsdale tomorrow. This oughta be fun.

[SadieKate]

Fly nekkid. At least I'd scare away some of the great unwashed and wouldn't need to remove any shoes at security.

[snapdragen]

Guide dog? :p

I found the wipes at Longs, I think. Let me know if you can't find 'em, I hunt some down for you.

[Patti37]

I think you can bring the items with you...you can bring them on in the luggage you check-in...not in your carry on.

[uforgot]

I watched the news with interest this week, since I used to fly a lot, and they showed how liquid explosives can be a clear liquid. Apparently even small amounts are deadly. I know there are probably chemists on this board, and my info is just what I get on the news and it would be great to have their input. Personally, if I was still flying I would cheerfully give up any of the things they ask if there was any risk at all! I'm sure that they realized how this was going to disrupt travel, that they would catch a LOT of flack, and I'm inclined to think that these controls were not implemented on a whim, but that there truly is a risk. How many people complain after a disaster or crash that more should have been done?

[DeniseGoldberg]

Yes, the liquid restrictions are annoying - and yes, I did fly this past weekend. (I have very dry eyes and need my eye drops, not allowed! If I am traveling somewhere that is a long flight, I will ask my eye doc to give me a prescription for the over-the-counter drops that he wants me to use; I was allowed to carry on my 2x a day prescription drops.). I was lucky in that I was staying with my sister, so I opted to use her toilet articles rather than check baggage (in which case I could have carried all of my own liquid things in my checked bag).

But I think (no, I know) that I'd rather that extra precautions are taken than not. And we should feel lucky that our domestic flights didn't have the restrictions that flights to from here to the UK and back had over the past couple of days - no carry-on items at all except for a wallet and passport.

The severe liquid restrictions for medications have been eased somewhat this morning (looks like my eye drops problem is fixed...). Here's the updated "allowed liquids list" from the TSA web site:
Exceptions: Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket; up to 8 oz of liquid or gel insulin and up to 4 oz. of non-prescription liquid medications.
--- Denise

[Lise]

YES! Eye drops have been my main concern. As others have said, I would willingly give up carrying them on the plane if that's what needed to happen. I'd probably get the individual droppers, and put some in just before getting on the plane, then pitch the container. My other personal discomfort is lip dryness. I was thinking of putting some vaseline on a q-tip and carrying that in a zip lock baggie. I next fly in October. We'll see how things are looking then.

I get it about liquid explosives. I'm glad they're being so careful. There are people out there who do nothing but work all day to destroy the world the rest of us live in. If they can be thwarted because I'll leave my eye drops and chapstick behind, then OK.
..........................
alas, I just went to the website, and eye drops are still prohibited. But solid lip gloss is allowed. I'm guessing they mean something like chapstick or a tin of lip balm? OK. No q-tip with vaseline needed, but still pick up the individual eye drop things. And make all flights very, very short. Yes, I have six layovers on the way to my brother's wedding. Sure, it wastes time and money, but my eyes won't be dry! :rolleyes:

[Tri Girl]

Hmmmm...can't you just put the little bottle of plastic drops in your top (bra) and bring it on with you? Then again, if they caught you pulling it out, you'd probably get arrested and then you'd have a new set of problems.
I know this is the world we live in now, sad but true. It's unfortunate, but something we have no choice about, and if it is safer, or even if it only makes us feel safer (don't even get me started on what you're allowed to check in vs. what you can carry on board-like something in checked baggage couldn't be used to do bad things), then it's OK with me.
Hope your eyes don't dry out too much! Have a safe flight! :)

[Trek420]

Duck on Wheels was flying in the "thick of it" on that day. She was in England where she met up with UK Eliphant. Next she e-mailed me from Copenhagen, where she had an hour's wait for flight home to Norway. The next I hear is from our Mom that she arrived in Trondheim....with all her luggage, and even on schedule in spite of all the extra security.

I'll try to get a first hand report.

[Lise]

Glad the Duck got through OK, Trek. Thanks for the update. L.

[Tuckervill]

(don't even get me started on what you're allowed to check in vs. what you can carry on board-like something in checked baggage couldn't be used to do bad things),

They go through your stuff that's checked now, too. That's why you shouldn't lock your bag, because they are going to break the lock to go through it.

It is my understanding that the liquids have to be mixed and that's what causes the explosion...no one would have access to them to mix up the cocktail if they were in the hold.

It is also my understanding that it doesn't take much to destroy a plane after you put a hole in the side--a pressurized jet is basically a can of compressed air after it gets up in the sky. A small whole caused by a minor explosion expands when the pressure is let out, and then the other side of the plane would rupture, too. Catastrophe.

Now let's go FLY! lol.

Karen

[SalsaMTB]

Hmmmm...can't you just put the little bottle of plastic drops in your top (bra) and bring it on with you?

See, this is what I was wondering. I understand the need to eliminate liquids because of the risk, but if it takes such a small amount, you really think the people who want to blow up the plane will not think of taping it to their leg or something? They wouldn't put it in their carry-on, they would just put it in their pocket. You can't catch it in the metal detector. So, are the searching every person that walks through the gate?? I understand the need, but to say my sealed container of eye drops is not OK to bring, but to just let everyone walk to the metal detectors and not pat them down seems a little silly.

[tulip]

For eye drops, can you soak cotton balls in the eye drop solution and then put the cotton balls in a ziplock bag, and then squeeze the eye drops out of the cotton balls when you need them for your eyes?

[Veronica]

The evil people in this world will find a way to do evil. It's their thing.

Just get it over with and eliminate all carry on luggage. And no babies - don't jump on me. :p They require too much extra stuff.

V.

[tulip]

The evil people in this world will find a way to do evil. It's their thing.

Just get it over with and eliminate all carry on luggage. And no babies - don't jump on me. :p They require too much extra stuff.

V.

Babies "require" very little. It's the parents who require all the stuff!

Now back to our regularly-scheduled show...already in progress.

[Veronica]

Don't babies need diapers, cleaners, anti rash goop, plus food every 2 minutes? :D

V.

[tulip]

Don't babies need diapers, cleaners, anti rash goop, plus food every 2 minutes? :D

V.

I don't know. My mom just gave us a bit of whiskey, and we were no problem.

[deena]

Tulip, you are so right! When my kids were littel I took everthing in the house with us. Now when I babysit my neices and nephews, I look at what my sister packs and just laugh! Who knew?

[Veronica]

I can see it now - the flight attendants hand out a small bottle of whiskey to all on board. They watch each individual to be sure you actually drink your serving. The flight does not leave the ground until all have consumed at least 4 ounces of whiskey.

And a happy flight is had by all.

V.

[kaybee]

I can see it now - the flight attendants hand out a small bottle of whiskey to all on board. They watch each individual to be sure you actually drink your serving. The flight does not leave the ground until all have consumed at least 4 ounces of whiskey.

And a happy flight is had by all.

V.

V -- You're absolutely right. We will all arrive at our destinations ugly (no lipstick or hairspray) and stinky (no deodorant), but we won't care! :D

We're planning to fly to Nova Scotia Friday, and it should be interesting.

KB

[Tuckervill]

Don't babies need diapers, cleaners, anti rash goop, plus food every 2 minutes?

Not if they're breastfed and their mothers are using elimination communication!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elimination_communication

Karen

[mtkitchn]

My husband and I showed up at the airport at 6am Friday morning to fly to Portland on vacation. We knew nothing of the restrictions since they'd just gone into effect in the previous few hours. We ended up checking our bags after finding out that we couldn't take liquids on board (good thing we always show up at the airport early!). I had to put my eye drops and lip balm in my checked bag and throw away my bottled water. It was pretty uncomfortable since I apply both "medications" about every 30 minutes and drink water like it's going out of style, but I lived.
Our flights were on time and our bags showed up with us. The worst part of the experience was the long security lines. I understand that those in the UK are having a heck of a time.
As far as an explosion on an airplane, it would depend upon where the bomb went off and what kind of airplane it was. The airframe could survive a hole in certain areas, but if you had several bombs go off in the cabin at the same time, it could be devastating. Remember the 737 in Hawaii some years ago that had an entire section of fuselage peel up and leave a gaping hole in the side of the airplane? It landed safely. A Boeing can fly with a lot of damage.
Anyway, I think the restrictions are probably a good idea, even though I was a little perturbed when it affected me!:D

[Running Mommy]

My husband is on a plane at least twice a week, sometimes twice a day, and often flies 4-6 times a WEEK! So hearing about all of this is very stressful! I know it can happen, but man it's just hard to hear!
My only hope is that the Phoenix to Vegas flight isn't much of a target. I mean it's such a short hop. But then again vegas is known as a place for "sinners" so a religious radical may just WANT to target Vegas.. Sigh... UGH! :(

[SadieKate]

Cool, see the things I learn. You think I can get lens re-wetting solution in a single dose thingee at your average pharmacy?

Yes, I know all this stuff can go in my checked baggage as I read the TSA site that I linked to, and, no, I cannot give up my lenses as I said above. Yes, I want the world to be safe and I'll go along with a lot of rules but sometimes the rules get written without thought for the real world. Basically, the powers that be should first ask if the item is of medical or functional necessity and then define restrictions. I cannot function without contacts for vision reasons (and there are others who cannot function without them due to medical necessity) and the lens drops are a medical necessity on long flights or when my seat mates insist on blowing the fans. Therefore, the TSA could define eye drops in single dose applicators sufficient for the flight as acceptable.

Lise, I get horribly dry lips also. I'm going to try taking a stick of Blistex Silk & Shine. That's the best "stick" stuff I've found. Otherwise, I use Chapstick Overnight Lip Treatment (during the day!) which is a gel in a tube. It seems that products with Dimethicone are the best for keeping my lips from cracking. I'll let you know if I get through with the stick.

[aka_kim]

I'm waiting for the day when we're stripped down, strip searched, forcibly restrained to our seats, and then given general anesthesia for the duration of the flight. Really. I can't wait.

[chickwhorips]

my motto on flying (considering i have to do that to get out of here to go anywhere)

Time to Spare, Fly by Air

for chapped lips and really dry spots i use Aquaphor. helps big time. i use to use the nighttime stuff, but i like this stuff much more. winter time i have a hard time with dry lips.

[Susarific]

If not taking your eye drops onboard a flight is the worst thing in the world maybe you should count your blessings. You could always take a train, bus or car instead. I have been flying everyday since Thursday and everyone on the flights have been VERY understanding. I didn't hear even one complaint about the new restrictions, which I was surprised about. Also, all airports sell toiletries at stores if you are desperate for something that is banned during your sit time between flights! Unfortunately no one will answer yes to the question "Are you a terrorist?'

[mimitabby]

I'm waiting for the day when we're stripped down, strip searched, forcibly restrained to our seats, and then given general anesthesia for the duration of the flight. Really. I can't wait.

I think the general anesthesia would be better if administered when you enter the airport.

What a big ridiculous royal pain!
Grandmas with lipsticks are NOT planning to blow up any airplanes soon.

[Brandy]

I think the general anesthesia would be better if administered when you enter the airport.

What a big ridiculous royal pain!
Grandmas with lipsticks are NOT planning to blow up any airplanes soon.

I agree that you are probably right, but it's kind of an all or nothing thing or we get into the very slippery slope of racial profiling.

[hurleygirl]

I'm glad I'm not planning on flying anywhere anytime soon. I will be going to Florida to visit my mother in October. I usually just bring a single carry-on bag, and I think I'll just mail my bag of travel toiletries to her a few days before.

The only beauty items I need are my chapstick, and toothbrush and toothpaste. I really get weird about my teeth if I can't brush them after I eat. But I have a bunch of tiny toothpaste tubes, so I suppose I'll bring one of those and just pitch it at the airport.

I usually travel with a bottle of water, but I'll bring a smaller one and finish it off before I get in line. Does this also mean that you won't be able to buy food in the terminals? I can imagine how dehydrated travelers will get if their flight is delayed and they can't even get any water.

This also leads me to wonder how much waste was generated the day these restrictions went into effect. Travellers were given no warning, and the news showed pictures of bins and bins of discarded items - all still perfectly good. What happened to all that stuff?

[chickwhorips]

does anyone know if they are checking carry ons when you go though security only or right before you get on the plane?

if its only security, can't you buy stuff once you get through security and carry that on you. i'm sure they have toothpaste, chapstick and the like in those little stores, so you could actually still carry it on with you.

[mimitabby]

They just toss all that stuff.
When they were afraid that some old man would heist a jet with nail clippers
a few years back, i inquired as they took my nail clippers and my tiny folding scissors.. They told me it all got thrown out.

Too bad you can't take a train to Italy.

[DeniseGoldberg]

does anyone know if they are checking carry ons when you go though security only or right before you get on the plane?

if its only security, can't you buy stuff once you get through security and carry that on you. i'm sure they have toothpaste, chapstick and the like in those little stores, so you could actually still carry it on with you.
In the airports that I went through this past weekend, they are spot-checking bags at the gate in addition to the x-ray at security. I also heard that the stores inside of security are now prohibited from selling liquid/gel toilet articles.


I usually travel with a bottle of water, but I'll bring a smaller one and finish it off before I get in line. Does this also mean that you won't be able to buy food in the terminals? I can imagine how dehydrated travelers will get if their flight is delayed and they can't even get any water.

The stores can still sell drinks beyond the security point - but you can't take them on the plane with you.

--------------------------------
I was lucky in that my travel started on Friday, and by then it appeared that all of the travelers around me were aware of the rules - so the security checkpoints weren't any slower than normal. I was able to carry my prescription eyedrops which were in individual "serving size" containers - but I did have a copy of my prescription with me.

[Veronica]

does anyone know if they are checking carry ons when you go though security only or right before you get on the plane?

if its only security, can't you buy stuff once you get through security and carry that on you. i'm sure they have toothpaste, chapstick and the like in those little stores, so you could actually still carry it on with you.

That's a good point. It could get expensive but it would be nice to be able to get the stuff you want. Maybe if it's not okay now, they will move that direction.

V.

[Trek420]

DeniseGoldberg "The stores can still sell drinks beyond the security point - but you can't take them on the plane with you."

so they confiscate or you toss the drink before the security point, buy another after that point, toss it before the flight, buy another on the flight....all I can say is I hope they are recycling :rolleyes:

and....all this about water and toothpaste and are they checking the luggage and cargo yet??? Hope there are no lipstick wearing terrorist grandmas on TE. :o

[Veronica]

Start flying Jet Blue! I swear they came around 3 or 4 times on my flight from NY to CA with free drinks (non alchoholic). And there really is more room between the rows. On United et al. I have to slide in sideways, not neccessary on Jet Blue. I hope they make it as an airline.

V.

[SadieKate]

While our corporations can now make even more money off our airport purchases, our ports remain unchecked and we rely on other countries to keep us Americans safe. Thank you, England and John Cleese.

[massbikebabe]

Somewhere in Grad school when I was actively doing research I remember hearing a phrase that went: Greatest Good for Greatest Number. I think this is the phrase that pharm. companies use, now bein coined by airlines. I have always been a white knuckled flier and this stuff makes me so nervous. If they wanted me to board a plane buck neckid I would, I have no problem with heightened security. What bothers me is that our US government has failed to catch these creeps. What exactly is our national security doing??
I suppose my posts will be scrutinized from now on.


karen
not a terroist just a confused citizen

[chickwhorips]

Start flying Jet Blue! I swear they came around 3 or 4 times on my flight from NY to CA with free drinks (non alchoholic). And there really is more room between the rows. On United et al. I have to slide in sideways, not neccessary on Jet Blue. I hope they make it as an airline.

V.


they don't fly to alaska. :(

best service i had was on China Airlines going down to PI.

[mimitabby]

What bothers me is that our US government has failed to catch these creeps. What exactly is our national security doing??
I suppose my posts will be scrutinized from now on.


karen
not a terroist just a confused citizen

ha you and me both. Our government has given millions of dollars to security to little tiny towns in the middle of nowhere while big cities (like NYC) have had to CUT their funding for security because there wasn't enuf.
When i am in the airport, I do not cause trouble, I quietly go along with whatever indignity and BS that they are doing, but that doesn't mean I like
it or even think it is useful or effective. and the poor souls who work in the airport get the worst of it all!
YOU WANT MY WHAT????!

[Veronica]

they don't fly to alaska. :(


Maybe eventually they will. They just started going to Maine in May.

V.

[caligurl]

For eye drops, can you soak cotton balls in the eye drop solution and then put the cotton balls in a ziplock bag, and then squeeze the eye drops out of the cotton balls when you need them for your eyes?

lol! you don't wear contacts, do you!

[DeniseGoldberg]

For eye drops, can you soak cotton balls in the eye drop solution and then put the cotton balls in a ziplock bag, and then squeeze the eye drops out of the cotton balls when you need them for your eyes?
That sounds like a good way to get unwanted fibers in your eyes, to say nothing of the fact that it wouldn't be a sanitary method of dispensing eye drops...

[tulip]

lol! you don't wear contacts, do you!

No I don't, but I was not thinking of contact solution; I was thinking of regular eyedrops, like Visine or something.

[caligurl]

No I don't, but I was not thinking of contact solution; I was thinking of regular eyedrops, like Visine or something.

for me the big deal of needing eye drops is for my contacts! the dry airplane air dries them out something wicked! (same goes for the chapstick!!) i'm so glad i don't have any trips planned right now!)

[tulip]

That sounds like a good way to get unwanted fibers in your eyes, to say nothing of the fact that it wouldn't be a sanitary method of dispensing eye drops...

Well, considering that I don't have a problem with dry eyes, I don't have to worry about it. The suggestion was meant to perhaps help someone, but I suppose it does not.

I've heard that Visine and similar drops can become habit-forming. Have y'all found this to be true? It would be a shame to have to rely on drops for healthy eyes to function normally.

[caligurl]

I've heard that Visine and similar drops can become habit-forming. Have y'all found this to be true? It would be a shame to have to rely on drops for healthy eyes to function normally.

YIKES! i hadn't heard that... and i agree... it would be a shame! (any dependancy is not a good thing!)

i know i try, even with my contacts, to NOT use drops unless i HAVE to! on planes is a HAVE to situation... especially if i've fallen asleep in them!

[DeniseGoldberg]

I've heard that Visine and similar drops can become habit-forming. Have y'all found this to be true? It would be a shame to have to rely on drops for healthy eyes to function normally.
Visine does not fall in the category of a good eye drop (as in a drop recommended for use by a doc!).

My eye doctor has recommended several eye drops for my use (different brands, but all classified as handling moderate to severe dry eye), all of which are supposed to be preservative-free in the eye (which is an interesting characteristic since there are preservatives of a sort in the drops). It's not a case of the drops becoming habit-forming in my case - there are eye conditions that require drops to help maintain a healthy eye.

--- Denise

[tulip]

Visine does not fall in the category of a good eye drop (as in a drop recommended for use by a doc!).

My eye doctor has recommended several eye drops for my use (different brands, but all classified as handling moderate to severe dry eye), all of which are supposed to be preservative-free in the eye (which is an interesting characteristic since there are preservatives of a sort in the drops). It's not a case of the drops becoming habit-forming in my case - there are eye conditions that require drops to help maintain a healthy eye.

--- Denise

Of course, medically-necessary drops are needed to maintain healthy eyes for some conditions--drops for pressure (glaucoma), for example. Alot of people use Visine who do not have a medical condition that requires drops. My opthamologist said to be careful using drops (OTC, not prescription) since they can become habit-forming. My MIL uses Visine constantly, I don't know what she's going to do on the plane when she comes over from France for a visit in a few weeks.

I have only one good eye, so I'm quite careful about it. Luckily, I don't need any drops. My messed up part is the retina, which is way back out of the reach of any drops (and drops wouldn't help at this point anyways).

Oh well, all of you who need eye drops, I wish you the best on the airplane.

[SadieKate]

If not taking your eye drops onboard a flight is the worst thing in the world maybe you should count your blessings. You could always take a train, bus or car instead. I have been flying everyday since Thursday and everyone on the flights have been VERY understanding. I didn't hear even one complaint about the new restrictions, which I was surprised about. Also, all airports sell toiletries at stores if you are desperate for something that is banned during your sit time between flights! Unfortunately no one will answer yes to the question "Are you a terrorist?'

Susarific, I’d like to respond to your post personally after looking at your profile. I am mystified as to where you saw anyone state that not having eye drops is the worst thing in the world, but I can imagine that you didn’t hear any complaints. Well-mannered people don’t voice such complaints to someone who is already in a stressful situation without control over events. With such a recent event, everyone is in a bit of shock and just trying to cope. Complaining to a stressed flight attendant or to other passengers during the flight ridiculously increases stress levels without any opportunity to affect a solution; it is just a waste of time and counter productive. After all, you control our access to water, the most power to be had in the universe. I know I certainly wouldn’t say anything on the plane or in the hearing of any airport personnel in those first few days.

Please also realize that those of us who don’t spend hours daily in airports may not be as intimately acquainted as you are with the items available airport shops. They are very expensive and I buy from them only in a crisis. I looked on TSA’s website for any information regarding Denise’s statement:

I also heard that the stores inside of security are now prohibited from selling liquid/gel toilet articles.
But, I didn’t find anything. From personal experience, I also know that the airports all operate independently of each other and the TSA at times. TSA will say one thing and the airport will do another at their own discretion. In other words, one cannot depend on the availability of items in the stores or the stores even being open.

You may have not heard any complaints, but that doesn’t mean there weren’t any and that some of those complaints weren’t justified.

By the way, look back through the thread. You’ll see that by starting the thread many of us learned a few tips and tips for traveling -- a positive outcome of having an open discussion and we shared some humor at a time of national issues. I hope that your daily job will return to a more normal status soon.

[bcipam]

Since I'm scheduled for some business related travel coming up soon - I have a question about those who have been flying... I don't medically need anything and the restrictions are really just an inconvenience but I am old and cranky and wondered... the worse thing for me is 1) not being to have water with me at all times and 2) not being able to have my iPod.

Are the airlines sensitive to the fact that we won't be bringing on water and are they quick to offer some? I was hoping some have figured out they can give it away at the door as we board.

Second my iPod has gotten me through long waits at airports and also helps calm and sooth my nerves while flying especially if there's some screaming kids or chatty folks sitting next to me. Has anyone had a problem brining on their iPod? I heard it's restricted.

Frankly since 911 I lost my joy of flying and now avoid it at all costs. The new restrictions just add to my all ready mounting anxiety.

[Brandy]

Pam,

Domestic flights are allowing personal electronics again (iPods, laptops, etc.) so you should be okay.

[mtkitchn]

ipods and such are not restricted in the US. As far as water, the airlines haven't changed the way they dole out drinks. I made sure I visited the water fountain before I boarded the plane and had gum or something to keep my mouth moist. The upside is that I didn't have to use the bathroom every fifteen minutes!:)

[Susarific]

I can only speak for the airline that I work for, but they are boarding extra sodas, juice and water. Also, if someone asks for an extra beverage we have no problem giving it to them provided they ask for something that we have. We can't give out whole bottles of water, but really we're pretty accomodating.

[Susarific]

From reading the thread it seemed that people were pretty unpleased about the situation with the TSA especially the eye drop issue. It just seems to me that in situations like this it is easy to lose perspective of why they are doing this, it's just to keep everyone safe. As for people complaining to stressed out flight attendants... in my experience people are very vocal about what they like and don't like regarding anything air travel related. Trust me people have NO problem complaining about things like this. Those who I did speak to about the TSA regs. were very understanding, like I said I was surprised. Anyway, good luck to those of you who are travelling this week.

[Veronica]

I don't think I'd ever want to be a flight attendant. I couldn't be nice for that long.

Remember CC's post about the guy from Florida wanting pancakes ... Imagine a plane with 20 more like him. There's a reason for the term "Ugly American." Well I'm sure everyone on TE is generally polite and well mannered, manners do seem to have flown the coop in our society.

V.

[SadieKate]

So you teach 5th graders instead? :confused:

[DeniseGoldberg]

From reading the thread it seemed that people were pretty unpleased about the situation with the TSA especially the eye drop issue. It just seems to me that in situations like this it is easy to lose perspective of why they are doing this, it's just to keep everyone safe.
I do understand that the restrictions are an attempt to keep everyone safe, but I also know that if the flight I was scheduled to be on this past weekend was over an hour that I probably would have canceled my trip.

I was not able to take my "use whenever I need them" eyedrops on the plane since they are not a prescription item - and I didn't have time because of the timing of the restriction to attempt to get a prescription from my doc for a non-prescription item that he has instructed me to use. As it was, the two hours that I was in the airport and flying were way longer than my usual time interval to use these drops. Not only is my vision affected, excessive dryness can cause problems with the surface of eyes. So did I lose perspective here? I don't think so.

At this point, I really glad that the vacation I have scheduled for September is just next door in Canada and that I am getting there by car and ferry. If the extreme restricions on carry-ons continues on flights to Europe - well somehow it is beyond my imagination that a camera + lenses in checked baggage would arrive at my destination in usable shape. My bicycle survives travel in the hold (although she thinks that she should be able to fit in the overhead comparment), but the camera - or a computer? I don't think so.

--- Denise

[Veronica]

So you teach 5th graders instead? :confused:


No one ever said I was nice to them! ;)

V.

[mtkitchn]

If they tried to take my eyedrops off of me, I would offer to put drops in my eyes to show that it wasn't an explosive. That usually works.
Just don't get huffy with the TSA....they are on a power trip usually.

[mimitabby]

Just don't get huffy with the TSA....they are on a power trip usually.

and overworked and underpaid!!!

[SadieKate]

They just added eye drops and saline solution back to the execeptions. You are allowed up to 4 ounces. I think I can handle that.

What about the hard case for my sunglasses? I had heard no cases for glasses.

[caligurl]

i thought the cases (just like the electronics) was an overseas/london thing... not a domestic within the us thing?

[massbikebabe]

V;

Former ER nurse chiming in here...I had to be nice to them for 12 hours:(


My Mommy is flying to Ohio to spend a month with my very pregnant sister.
She has been told that by bringing her 5 pound havanese puppy with her the dog will have to go thru the x-ray security check at the airport. I find this hilarious as my mother is 72 and she does not look at all like a terrorist!!! They will probably take away her knitting needles and thread scissors:eek:


karen
still laughing

[chickwhorips]

She has been told that by bringing her 5 pound havanese puppy with her the dog will have to go thru the x-ray security check at the airport.

i feel really bad for the puppy!

[bcipam]

From reading the thread it seemed that people were pretty unpleased about the situation with the TSA especially the eye drop issue. It just seems to me that in situations like this it is easy to lose perspective of why they are doing this, it's just to keep everyone safe. As for people complaining to stressed out flight attendants... in my experience people are very vocal about what they like and don't like regarding anything air travel related. Trust me people have NO problem complaining about things like this. Those who I did speak to about the TSA regs. were very understanding, like I said I was surprised. Anyway, good luck to those of you who are travelling this week.


I think most of us realize complaining won't change the situation. Plus I remember in the beginning (like right after 911) when you even joked about something involving security, attendants and airline personnel would remind one its a Federal offense punishable by jail time soooooo... you won't hear me complaining , at least not off the TE Forum!

[bcipam]

V;

Former ER nurse chiming in here...I had to be nice to them for 12 hours:(


My Mommy is flying to Ohio to spend a month with my very pregnant sister.
She has been told that by bringing her 5 pound havanese puppy with her the dog will have to go thru the x-ray security check at the airport. I find this hilarious as my mother is 72 and she does not look at all like a terrorist!!! They will probably take away her knitting needles and thread scissors:eek:


karen
still laughing


Don't get me going about who they do and do not check - sometimes we need not to be so political correct!!!! :mad:

OK just joking... no hate mail please! :eek:

[bcipam]

From reading the thread it seemed that people were pretty unpleased about the situation with the TSA especially the eye drop issue. It just seems to me that in situations like this it is easy to lose perspective of why they are doing this, it's just to keep everyone safe. As for people complaining to stressed out flight attendants... in my experience people are very vocal about what they like and don't like regarding anything air travel related. Trust me people have NO problem complaining about things like this. Those who I did speak to about the TSA regs. were very understanding, like I said I was surprised. Anyway, good luck to those of you who are travelling this week.


I think most of us realize complaining won't change the situation. Plus I remember in the beginning (like right after 911) when you even joked about something involving security, attendants and airline personnel would remind one its a Federal offense punishable by jail time soooooo... you won't hear me complaining , at least not off the TE Forum!

[mtkitchn]

Unfortunately, weapons and such have been smuggled (and attempted to be smuggled) aboard aircraft in everything from children's teddy bears to wheelchairs. So everyone actually gets checked for a reason!

[caligurl]

I think most of us realize complaining won't change the situation. Plus I remember in the beginning (like right after 911) when you even joked about something involving security, attendants and airline personnel would remind one its a Federal offense punishable by jail time soooooo... you won't hear me complaining , at least not off the TE Forum!

JOKING Is a federal offense (i.e. "i have a bomb in my *name the place* ha ha ha h... "just kidding"

however COMPLAINING is not a federal offense... never has been... "i don't like that i can't take X or Y on the plane"

[chickwhorips]

Unfortunately, weapons and such have been smuggled (and attempted to be smuggled) aboard aircraft in everything from children's teddy bears to wheelchairs. So everyone actually gets checked for a reason!

flying out to the bush of alaska you don't need to smuggle anything. we have no security. none, zip, nada. you can walk on with a gun/knife/weapon strapped to your side and no one would say a word. then again who's going to hijack a bush plane? they'll just open the door and toss you out. i've actually landed in anchorage, looked in my carryon and realized that i forgot to take a filet knife out of my bad. oops.

though i heard of a story of a trooper flying from fairbanks to anchorage. they let him take his gun with him, but not his toenail clippers. they said it was the law, technically isn't he the law?

[bcipam]

I just went to the FAA/TSA website. Good news, I can take my iPod with me. W00-hoo!!!

But I thought this list was interesting:

Due to increased security measures, TSA has made changes to the prohibited items list.

All liquids and gels – including shampoo, toothpaste, perfume, hair gel, suntan lotion and all other items with similar consistency ARE PROHIBITED from carry-on baggage and the security checkpoint. Please pack these items in your checked baggage. Carrying liquids of any sort to the screening checkpoint will cause you delays, and will most likely result in the item being confiscated.

Don’t let a prohibited item ruin your trip. You are permitted to travel with most items, but you must put them in your luggage and check them with your airline. Certain items are prohibited from carry-on luggage for the overall security of air travelers. Prohibited items obviously include weapons, explosives, and incendiaries, but also items that are seemingly harmless and may be used as weapons like hammers, bats, or mace. You may not bring these items to security checkpoints
* * *
Who thinks a mace is harmless?????? :confused:

I also checked the ban liquids list - I carry alot of that stuff in my purse - such as hand lotion/santitizer, toothpaste, etc. Guess my purse will be fairly empty - just my iPod, wallet, cell phone and glasses.

[Raindrop]

I read that they have relaxed some of the prohibition standards and now allow small amounts of liquid medicines (including over the counter stuff), solid lipsticks, which I would assume would include chapstick, and baby food. That last item was extremely important to my son and daughter-in-law since they're flying out on Wednesday with my 10 month old grandson who would probably NOT be quiet if he had to go over 3 1/2 hours with no food. He's quite the chow-hound:D

I leave in the morning for Alaska and except for the water prohibition don't have an issue with anything. I've been pulled out of line more than once for additional screening. I must have "that" look since I'm a 5'1" woman, usually very casually dressed and carrying practically nothing more than a book and my purse which is barely large enough to hold a wallet and checkbook.

This is apparently the world we have to live in today. (I'm not even going to expand on that by bringing in my opinions on the current administration).

[mtkitchn]

http://gorillasushi.com/?q=node/5

[Lise]

however COMPLAINING is not a federal offense...
Good thing, too, or I'd be locked up for life! :p

mtkitchen: one word: WARPED! HAhahahahhhabwahhahahahaha!

OK, the eye drop thing. Do I think it's more important than reducing the terrorist threat? No. Do I just not want to have really dry eyes when I spent $4,000 last year having them operated on? Yes! That's all. Still not a federal offense, right?! :rolleyes: Glad to hear eye drops are back off the list. I would not try to smuggle them (or anything else) on a plane--not that important, and really makes me look suspicious.

One time a TSA official questioned me closely about my hair color. On driver's license, one color. On head, different color. Like, not so grey, more blonde. "Yes", I told her. "I dye my hair." It was wierd. She let me through.

[snapdragen]

When I flew to San Diego in January, I was pulled from line and searched, including a pat down, before I boarded the plane in San Jose. Later I learned it was because I had changed my flight reservations 24 hrs before my trip.

TSA workers in SJ aren't nearly as friendly as those in the commuter terminal at San Diego. I had quite a nice chat, including laughing about why I was pulled, while they searched my luggage (no pat down that time, just "the wand")

[Raindrop]

WOW Lise! I may be pulled over too since my license says my hair is brown, but my current color(s) are brown, blond and purple. (You'll have to take my word for it...it's done very tastefully).:)

[SalsaMTB]

When I flew to San Diego in January, I was pulled from line and searched, including a pat down, before I boarded the plane in San Jose. Later I learned it was because I had changed my flight reservations 24 hrs before my trip.

TSA workers in SJ aren't nearly as friendly as those in the commuter terminal at San Diego. I had quite a nice chat, including laughing about why I was pulled, while they searched my luggage (no pat down that time, just "the wand")

Great, I'm flying to Japan in a couple weeks and my passport has my maiden name! It was OK for my last trip, but this increased security is making me a little nervous. Maybe I'll bring the original marriage license, instead of a photo-copy, this time.

For girls with contacts, you can always use saliva to re-wet them. I've had situations where I had to get the contact out and didn't have anything, but saliva worked. It's not he greatest, a little disgusting, but it gets the job done!

[mimitabby]

Great, I'm flying to Japan in a couple weeks and my passport has my maiden name! It was OK for my last trip, but this increased security is making me a little nervous. Maybe I'll bring the original marriage license, instead of a photo-copy, this time.

For girls with contacts, you can always use saliva to re-wet them. I've had situations where I had to get the contact out and didn't have anything, but saliva worked. It's not he greatest, a little disgusting, but it gets the job done!
Hey Salsa, get your passport updated, they ARE getting really strict!!

[mimitabby]

you don't have to use racial profiling to make an airport safe. Read about the experiment they did in Dulles airport a few years ago. I'm not allowed to include the whole article, but you'll get the drift:


http://select.nytimes.com/2006/08/15/opinion/15Tierney.html?hp

The Dulles experiment was radical even in 2003, when airport screeners
thought nothing of making passengers wait while they searched Grandma's
purse for nail scissors. But a few experts wondered if there was a better
use of everyone's time.

The screeners at Dulles stopped worrying about pen knives, shoes and
laptops, allowing passengers to pass through more quickly. The speed of the
line increased by nearly a third. The screening process required fewer
workers, but they detected more problems because they worked smarter.

Instead of looking for things, they looked at people. Borrowing techniques
from Israeli airports and the U.S. Customs Service, screeners observed a
passenger as he entered the airport, checked luggage and stood in line at
the security checkpoint.

The screeners were looking for unusual behavior like sweating, rigid
posture, clenched fists. A screener would engage a passenger in conversation
and ask questions he wouldn't have been trained to expect, like whether he'd
seen a Redskins game the night before even though the Redskins hadn't
played.

The screeners were looking for telltale body language of someone trying too
hard to act natural. When they spotted it, they singled out that person for
interrogation, a pat-down and a luggage search. The screeners caught no
terrorists, but they consistently found people with something to hide, often
a forged visa, a stolen airline ticket, drugs or other smuggled goods.

Scott McHugh, who oversaw the Dulles program for the Transportation Security
Administration, is confident this type of screening would have flagged the
Sept. 11 terrorists or the latest plotters in London. "If you look at the
videos of 9/11 terrorists and the interviews with people who talked to
them," he says, "they all exhibit symptoms of stress that would have been
identified, like failure to make eye contact and failure to answer questions
directly. They're not exactly sophisticated. They're under so much stress
that anything out of the ordinary really throws them off their game."

[SalsaMTB]

Hey Salsa, get your passport updated, they ARE getting really strict!!

I know, I've been trying to figure out what to do. My trip is less than 2 weeks away, so I can't expedite it. There are places you can go for quicker service, the closest one is like a 4 or 5 hour drive, and of course, they're only open on during the week. Hmmm....maybe it's worth it. Like I said, last time I went to Japan, no questions were asked, they didn't even look at my marriage license. Now, though, I'm a bit nervous!

[Lise]

Mimitabby, very interesting info about the observation of passengers for signs of stress. For about two years after 9/11, I was so nervous in airports that I might well have been pulled out of line. I wasn't nervous about flying--I accept that when my time comes, I'll go. But I was afraid I'd answer the questions "wrong" somehow. I have nothing to hide! What a goof.

My sister lived in Israel for 15 years, and I flew there three times. The Israelis are not playing around. They grilled me, coming and going. I have a Germanic name--back in the 80s there was terrorism coming out of Germany. I was a young, blonde, non-Jewish American--I could easily have been wooed and deceived by a charming terrorist who hid something on me or convinced me to carry something. My young blonde American sister lived there. Why? Good questions, all. A little nerve wracking, but hey, I'll fly the Israeli carrier, ElAl, any day! With or without eyedrops. ;)

[mimitabby]

Sigh... I just read that now it is THE LAW that they xray your shoes even though the xrays do not find the bombs in shoes.

http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/news/1155641427243120.xml&coll=2

Report: X-rays unable to detect shoe explosives

Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Leslie Miller
Associated Press

Washington -- X-ray machines used to screen passengers' shoes are unable to detect explosives, according to a Homeland Security Department report on aviation screening.

Findings from the report did not stop the Transportation Security Administration from announcing Sunday that all airline passengers must remove their shoes and run them through X-ray machines before boarding commercial aircraft.

The shoe-scanning requirement was ordered as the government fine-tunes new security procedures since British police last week broke up a terrorist plot to assemble and detonate bombs aboard as many as 10 airliners crossing the Atlantic Ocean from Britain to the U.S. Among the new procedures are a ban on liquids and gels in airline passenger cabins, more hand searches of carry-on luggage, and random double screening of passengers at boarding gates.

[chickwhorips]

i heard this morning that you can have 4 oz of liquid on you now and carry non Rx with you. haven't researched it yet, but this is what i'm now hearing....

edit: it is for disabled and diabetics: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1059.shtm

[Brandy]

I'll fly the Israeli carrier, ElAl, any day!

You're right...ElAl doesn't mess around with security. My husband is a police officer at LAX and the security measures when ElAl flies out of there three days a week are amazing. :eek:

[bikerz]

I was in India for 3 months in 2001 (before, during and after 9/11) and even before 9/11 the security measures were very impressive, in Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, and even Pune, where we were based (Pune is a pretty big city, but not huge.) They certainly made our pre-9/11 airport security look essentially non-existent.

Every carry-on and checked bag was x-rayed as you entered the terminal, and then most were opened and rifled through, right there on big tables in front of everyone (:eek:). [And believe me, there was a good bit of general interest in what everyone had packed in their luggage!] Also, only ticketed passengers could come into the terminal and out to the gates, or people with special clearance.

Then at the gate, before walking out onto the tarmac, every carry-on bag was screened again, and opened and looked through, and ID was checked again, and every passenger was "wanded" and patted down. They had a little screened area where a female officer patted down the women passengers. It was very throrough, and I felt quite safe after all that scrutiny.

We were on one of the first few flights out of India to the US after 9/11, and when we left from Mumbai, it was pretty much the same security measures, but with a more fierce kind of attention to it.

[Bruno28]

Just to re-assure you folks - BAA (that's the British Airport Authority) has announced they have 'lost' 5,000 pieces of hand baggage. Yes that's 5,000 - that's the hand baggage they stopped people carrying on to planes in case it contained explosive material.

Apparently they are not 'lost' they are 'in the system' - some may have been sent to other airports in error. So what happened to the rule that your baggage couldn't fly without you?

[Lenusik]

I know, I've been trying to figure out what to do. My trip is less than 2 weeks away, so I can't expedite it. There are places you can go for quicker service, the closest one is like a 4 or 5 hour drive, and of course, they're only open on during the week. Hmmm....maybe it's worth it. Like I said, last time I went to Japan, no questions were asked, they didn't even look at my marriage license. Now, though, I'm a bit nervous!
I am going to have a similar issue pretty soon. We are going to Ukraine in 2 weeks and my passport and green card have different names. I am taking every single document with me to prove that I am not an "elefant". Now I am also pragnent and cannot imagine going through the airport without my water. Plus my vitamins are gelled. So, what am I supposed to do? This is just going to very annoying.

[Lise]

Lenusik--speaking as a midwife, I would not worry about you missing a day or two of vitamins. They are a good supplement, but your food is your baby's greatest nourishment. Please do drink lots of water in the week before you travel, while you're in the airport, and then on the plane. I am sure the flight attendants will be helpful with that. I wonder if you could bring an empty water bottle with you and ask them to fill it on the plane?

Also remember to get up and walk frequently to prevent blood clots in your legs.

Take care,

Lise

[caligurl]

hmmmmm you pack your vitamins in your checked baggage... and once you are on the plane an in the air... you ask for a glass of water?

i guess i don't understand the whole "bring water on the plane" thing... cuz i've never done it... i always just get water and/or soda or juice from them... they start serving it shortly after lift off?????

now eye drops... chap stick (and electronics for entertainment for some) i can see being annoyed about not having them.... but water.. and make up... and deoderant.. and vitamins... you can take them... just have to pack them in checked baggage!

[Lenusik]

Lenusik--speaking as a midwife, I would not worry about you missing a day or two of vitamins. They are a good supplement, but your food is your baby's greatest nourishment. Please do drink lots of water in the week before you travel, while you're in the airport, and then on the plane. I am sure the flight attendants will be helpful with that. I wonder if you could bring an empty water bottle with you and ask them to fill it on the plane?
Also remember to get up and walk frequently to prevent blood clots in your legs.
Take care,
Lise
Thanks, Lise. I am not afraid of missing my vitamins. But it is a matter of principle. Some things just do not make sense. Being 9 hours on a plane without tooth paste is really annoying. Now I have to stock brush ups. But I want to have my own water with lemon in my own bottle. I don't think that I am asking for too much especially if I am drinking in from of the security personnel. I hope that they do not suggest that I drink explosives. I just need to stay positive and go with the flow. I am finally going home after 5 years, I have to stay positive.

[caligurl]

Thanks, Lise. I am not afraid of missing my vitamins. But it is a matter of principle. Some things just do not make sense. Being 9 hours on a plane without tooth paste is really annoying. Now I have to stock brush ups. But I want to have my own water with lemon in my own bottle. I don't think that I am asking for too much especially if I am drinking in from of the security personnel. I hope that they do not suggest that I drink explosives. I just need to stay positive and go with the flow. I am finally going home after 5 years, I have to stay positive.

rules are rules.... and if the rule is no water.. the i wouldn't even push the issue... they will give you water once you are on the plane and in the air. you just need to understand that they aren't going to bend the rules for one person to allow you to take your own water! plus all you'll end up doing is holding up the line of people behind you that are waiting to get through security!

there really is no "matter of principle" here... it's all a matter of safety and RULES....

as for freshening your breath... take a stick of gum... then once you are off the plane and have your checked luggage back... brush your teeth! i would never use icky plane bathroom water to brush my teeth... ewwwwww!

[Melody]

I must say that I'm glad that I flew to Dallas a few weeks ago and not after the bomb scare. :/ I have many medications which are labeled to me, under the name everyone knows me by, and not by my old asian name that only my parents call me. :/ It would mean getting new prescriptions filled out, mail ordered, etc etc... and since I have 8 separate prescriptions, from three different doctors, it would definately be a pain.

Keeping the meds in their original bottles is also a pain. I'm having to now mail order my medications, so each bottle holds typically 3 months of medication. If I lost my meds, I believe the insurance that I have would require that I pay for the replacement out of pocket. We're talking about $6k. :/ And since I need those meds to live, the alternative isn't very good.

*sigh*

I think I'm going to avoid flying for a while again. :(

Mel

[snapdragen]

Some of us can't chew gum; I've always found it a lousy alternative to teeth brushing, and it hurts my jaws and teeth.

I'm like Lenusik, I go everywhere with my water bottle. I'd rather bring my own than have some poor cabin attendant running down the aisle every time I want a drink. Considering I can finish off a liter easily, that would be a lot of running.

On many flights I've been on, there either is no service or too many needy people monopolizing the attendants. Then they barely have time to do much else but run down the aisle throwing pretzels.

[caligurl]

hmmmmm well... take some lifesavers.... breath mints.... tic tacs..... ..

as for the water... well.. if anyone is going to fly... they are just going to have to go with the flow or change their plans until such time that you are allowed to haul your water with you.... (geez... if i drank all that water... i'd be annoying the passenger next to me getting up to go pee every 2 minutes! :eek: )

[jobob]

Gaaah, I just found out I'm flying to DC next week.

I so don't want to deal with airlines right now! :p

[Lenusik]

hmmmmm well... take some lifesavers.... breath mints.... tic tacs..... ..

as for the water... well.. if anyone is going to fly... they are just going to have to go with the flow or change their plans until such time that you are allowed to haul your water with you.... (geez... if i drank all that water... i'd be annoying the passenger next to me getting up to go pee every 2 minutes! :eek: )
I usually sleep during long flights and don't need to drink all that much. But pregantn women tend to be thirsty - ALL THE TIME. Besides they aslo go to the bathroom more often. So, I am not planning to "save" anybody from my needs. I alreasy bought some brush ups to replace toothpaste. This should help.

[mimitabby]

i guess i don't understand the whole "bring water on the plane" thing... cuz i've never done it... i always just get water and/or soda or juice from them... they start serving it shortly after lift off?????

Caligurl,
I fly to Italy... The legs of the flights can be 8 or 10 hours or longer. I can assure you they do not give you enough water. I always (in the past) carried a water bottle and on one of these long flights, if you don't drink enough; you're going to get dehydrated.. So I practically run up and down the aisles of the plane, (to keep my legs from driving me nuts) and get water often too.
I also go to the bathroom a lot...

[Duck on Wheels]

See, this is what I was wondering. I understand the need to eliminate liquids because of the risk, but if it takes such a small amount, you really think the people who want to blow up the plane will not think of taping it to their leg or something? They wouldn't put it in their carry-on, they would just put it in their pocket. You can't catch it in the metal detector. So, are they searching every person that walks through the gate?? I understand the need, but to say my sealed container of eye drops is not OK to bring, but to just let everyone walk to the metal detectors and not pat them down seems a little silly.

Yep. They are patting down everybody. Which, for me, means explaining to a new security agent at each flight what an ostomy bag is. Anyways ... at least this trip no stupid person in uniform asked me to take it off and show it to him/her :eek: :mad: ! But back to the general pat-down procedure: That's what makes the security line snake all the way through the pre-security shopping area now -- sloooooowly! That, and people who try arguing with the staff about their hand cream or eye drops or whatever. My conclusions after flying to and from UK on the first days of this:
1) Be prepared! Get prescriptions for whatever liquids you need. Pack according to the current list. Allow plenty of boarding time.
2) Be patient! It takes the time it takes. People are doing their best. Planes are running pretty much on time. Nothing has blown up yet.
3) Remember the silver linings: Less hand luggage means more leg space! Scared off fellow passengers can mean an empty seat beside you!
4) Forget about arguing. It gets you nowhere. It only adds irritation to your trip.
5) Remember travel insurance! Lost luggage? Yes, it's more likely with even your "cabin" baggage checked, but who cares? 4 hours delayed luggage means I get to do $300 worth of shopping. :) And then eventually the old stuff turns up again. Just be sure to email any vital documents to yourself (like the notes for that lecture you're travelling to hold), then you can always print them out again at the other end if they're lost.
6) Water rules: The day I travelled, you COULD buy water inside and take it with you EXCEPT on flights to/from the UK. Now they may be more restrictive on that. But attendants were more than usually attendant about hydration. They were there with the water & juice every few minutes, it seemed.
7) For me the strangest rule was that you're not allowed to take any reading materials with you through security, but you can buy them inside and take them on the plane. So post-security the shops are hurting on liquor sales, but making out like thieves on sales of books, newspapers, etc. Oh well. silver linings again: It forced me NOT to try working on the plane, and it "forced" me to buy more recreational literature.

[caligurl]

But back to the general pat-down procedure: That's what makes the security line snake all the way through the pre-security shopping area now -- sloooooowly! That, and people who try arguing with the staff about their hand cream or eye drops or whatever.


4) Forget about arguing. It gets you nowhere. It only adds irritation to your trip.


that's what've been saying... rules are rules... and arguing only slows down the line behind you (but everyone here seems to want to argue about that, too!)


your point.... and my point.. the rules are there... no point in arguing at the airport to try to get your way... you know the rules... either cancel your flight or go with the flow... figure out alternatives....

[SalsaMTB]

Yep. They are patting down everybody.

Honestly, I guess I'm sort of glad they are patting down everyone. Seems a lot more secure when we're talking liquid explosives!

[caligurl]

6) Water rules: The day I travelled, you COULD buy water inside and take it with you EXCEPT on flights to/from the UK. Now they may be more restrictive on that. But attendants were more than usually attendant about hydration. They were there with the water & juice every few minutes, it seemed.

i missed this the first time around... there... water problem solved! phew!

NOW what would you like to argue about? perhaps the color of the sky? http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/203.gif

[caligurl]

Honestly, I guess I'm sort of glad they are patting down everyone. Seems a lot more secure when we're talking liquid explosives!

i'm with you... i'd rather have the tight security and no liquids if it means the plane isn't going to be blown up! a little inconvenience to come through alive makes a lot more sense to me!

[mimitabby]

that's what've been saying... rules are rules... and arguing only slows down the line behind you (but everyone here seems to want to argue about that, too!)


It's nice and easy to argue about it here. We all know better than to argue in the security lines!!!

[Duck on Wheels]

I must say that I'm glad that I flew to Dallas a few weeks ago and not after the bomb scare. :/ I have many medications which are labeled to me, under the name everyone knows me by, and not by my old asian name that only my parents call me. :/ It would mean getting new prescriptions filled out, mail ordered, etc etc... and since I have 8 separate prescriptions, from three different doctors, it would definately be a pain.

Keeping the meds in their original bottles is also a pain. I'm having to now mail order my medications, so each bottle holds typically 3 months of medication. If I lost my meds, I believe the insurance that I have would require that I pay for the replacement out of pocket. We're talking about $6k. :/ And since I need those meds to live, the alternative isn't very good.

*sigh*

I think I'm going to avoid flying for a while again. :(

Mel

Well, I may have flown before all the rules were set in stone. I had my meds for the day (prescription and non-prescription) counted out into a small tin from a tea bag package. They (security guards at each flight) asked what was in the tin. I opened it, showed them, and said it was all my medications counted out for the day. They shrugged and let me through with it.

I too have some name variations to deal with, but they didn't seem to look too closely. Are you sure you couldn't get one doctor to write you a "prescription" to cover all your meds for travel purposes? Maybe your GP?

Also, I mixed various meds into one (prescription) bottle. I'd done this before I learned of the new regulations, just to save space. After all, they are color and shape coded. I don't need half a dozen half-empty bottles just to keep them sorted. This too did not create a problem: Prescription bottle. Name matches ticket. Nobody checked whether contents matched label. Hmmmm. Maybe not so secure after all. But maybe they would have checked more closely if I'd been wearing a chador. :(

[caligurl]

It's nice and easy to argue about it here. We all know better than to argue in the security lines!!!

don't want one of these http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/135.gif???

well at least you see it's futile to argue at the airport... others have stated would/will argue... although again.. that's here and not actually at eh airport... so maybe just venting and they'll not argue and slow the lines down once they get there???????

[mimitabby]

Lol. no, at the airport I am quiet, friendly, and do WHATEVER they tell me.
QUICKLY...

That doesn't mean I LIKE it or I WANT TO! :eek:

[Lenusik]

Lol. no, at the airport I am quiet, friendly, and do WHATEVER they tell me.
QUICKLY...

That doesn't mean I LIKE it or I WANT TO! :eek:
Oh, yeas. I am very calm and quiet, and I have no plans to argue. But I just might puke on everybody by accident. This would be a lot of fun for the security.

[snapdragen]

lenusik - when is your baby due? Are you still having morning (or in my sister's case all day) sickness?

[Bruno28]

NOW what would you like to argue about? perhaps the color of the sky? http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/203.gif


You should post more often - you certainly liven things up! :D

[caligurl]

You should post more often - you certainly liven things up! :D


http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/194.gif at least someone appreciates me! lol!

[mimitabby]

http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/194.gif at least someone appreciates me! lol!
LOTS OF US DO!!

[Bruno28]

Yeah...I'd already figured you were trouble, mimi ;)

[caligurl]

LOTS OF US DO!!


http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/184.gif

[chickwhorips]

LOTS OF US DO!!

yes i agree with that. (love the smilies) but what were we orriginally talking about? http://www.smileypad.com/v224/Banners/Off-Topic2.gif i don't remember anymore......

[Lenusik]

lenusik - when is your baby due? Are you still having morning (or in my sister's case all day) sickness?
I am due at the end of March. And I really don't have any morning or all days sickness because I plan my meals a drinks apropraitely. But if I don't eat or don't have my water, oh, I cannot promise that whatever I had earlier will stay inside.
Anyway, back to the topic. I am not changing my tickets because of the silly rules. I am pretty sure that in couple of weeks things will be changed again.

[Trek420]

Lenusik "I am due at the end of March."

Congrats! Try for March 27th, good day for a birthday (I should know).

And check out the link on:

www.velogirls.com/resources/main.php

Under training tips I think, the "attack of the uber-Momies".

Interesting read about women who come back even stronger than before after pregancy.

Back to topic at hand :rolleyes:

[jobob]

your point.... and my point.. the rules are there... no point in arguing at the airport to try to get your way... you know the rules... either cancel your flight or go with the flow... figure out alternatives....

good grief ... I doubt anyone here ... would be dumb enough ... to arguewith security about this sort of thing ... we are just voicing our concerns ... and opinions ...

[mtkitchn]

good grief ... I doubt anyone here ... would be dumb enough ... to arguewith security about this sort of thing ... we are just voicing our concerns ... and opinions ...

Sometimes security people do such incredibly stupid stuff or say such incredibly stupid things that you can't help but (want to) argue with them.
Okay, enough ranting....time to go to the airport!:cool:

[Lise]

DUCK ON WHEELS! Great to see you back here! :D Glad your flight was relatively uneventful. Did your bike arrive OK? L.

[SadieKate]

I'm ba-ack! Aren't yawl thrilled? :D

Okey-doke. I only flew Sacramento to Phoenix and back so I can only report on these two airports. Security lines weren't bad. 40 mins in Sac where it would normally be 5 but it looked like it might be a bit better today. Phoenix was the normal 5 mins. It was fabulous not to have everyone carrying on beau coup luggage. Faster loading and more leg space.

OK stuff as of today - up to 4 ounces saline solution and eye drops. Pills but not probably not in gel form. I had a small unmarked container of motrin that was fine. Chapstick was fine. Sunglasses were fine.

Little tip: take the hand lotion from the hotel and hand it to the baggage/ticket agent to be thrown out when you check in or at the last minute. She acted like she'd had this happen all week. Marrriot just changed to this icky smalling Ginger Carrot toiletries group so I had no problem throwing the stuff out.

Not OK - you cannot carry on liquid of any form including water. You may buy beverages in stores or restaurants as usual but you must drink or discard it before boarding.

Water on the planes - may be served in a reasonable time and but then it may not. Sac to Phx, drinks were served over an hour into a 1:40 flight. Not cool. Coming back they were very prompt.

Regarding carrying your own water onto planes, Cali, read the news. Airline water is rarely bottled, unlike sodas and juice. The EPA has found contaminated water and come to "agreements" with the airlines. That leaves drinks which are either carbonated, caffeinated, high calorie or artificially sweetened. Really healthy choices.

http://www.wwdmag.com/wwd/index.cfm?powergrid=rfah=|cfap=&CFID=1505007&CFTOKEN=86153398&fuseaction=showNewsItem&newsItemID=10318

[Veronica]

Another reason to fly Jet Blue - they give you bottled water.

I wish they flew more places...

V.

[jobob]

I'm being paranoid, but I'm going to bring my prescription for my one-day disposable contacts so I can carry them with me on my flight to DC next week.

The contacts are in little individual foil-sealed packets with less than a ml (way less than 4 oz) of saline in each, and although I don't see them on the prohibited list, I don't see contact lenses on the allowed list either, so I'm going to hedge my bets. Hopefully with the prescription I won't run into any problems. See I'm not complaining, I'm adapting.

If I put my contacts in checked baggage and the bag was lost or delayed, I'd be hosed - my vision is so bad it's distorted when I wear my glasses so I have a hard time concentrating when do wear them. OK, now I'm complaining that I'm so nearsighted.

[mimitabby]

he went through security with an empty nalgeen bottle.
After that, he went into the men's room and filled it with water
and boarded the airplane with it.

He pointed out that the reason they are checking for liquids is that
some chemicals explode upon contact with the liquid. any liquid...
like urine or the cans of pepsi you get from the stewardess.


Now don't you all feel safer now?

[salsabike]

Ginger Carrot lotion? Eeeewwwwww.

[Veronica]

Now don't you all feel safer now?

Gee, maybe we should all just stay in our beds with the covers pulled up over our heads. Oh wait, I'm sure there's something that could kill me here too...



V.

[caligurl]

Regarding carrying your own water onto planes, Cali, read the news. Airline water is rarely bottled, unlike sodas and juice. The EPA has found contaminated water and come to "agreements" with the airlines. That leaves drinks which are either carbonated, caffeinated, high calorie or artificially sweetened. Really healthy choices.



i've ALWAYS gotten BOTTLED water.. AND they've always given me the whole bottle... with a glass of ice....

yep... that IS healthy!

[snapdragen]

Gee, maybe we should all just stay in our beds with the covers pulled up over our heads. Oh wait, I'm sure there's something that could kill me here too...



V.


Bed Bugs :rolleyes: with their own little bottles of water....

[caligurl]

I'm being paranoid, but I'm going to bring my prescription for my one-day disposable contacts so I can carry them with me on my flight to DC next week.

The contacts are in little individual foil-sealed packets with less than a ml (way less than 4 oz) of saline in each, and although I don't see them on the prohibited list, I don't see contact lenses on the allowed list either, so I'm going to hedge my bets. Hopefully with the prescription I won't run into any problems. See I'm not complaining, I'm adapting.

If I put my contacts in checked baggage and the bag was lost or delayed, I'd be hosed - my vision is so bad it's distorted when I wear my glasses so I have a hard time concentrating when do wear them. OK, now I'm complaining that I'm so nearsighted.

i would definitely double check cuz i did hear on one newscast that contact solution was one way of getting the "liquid" they needed on the plane (along with sports drinks)

i don't think you're complaining... i think you are asking (but i'll still get b!tched at by a certain few on here!)

[mimitabby]

Bed Bugs :rolleyes: with their own little bottles of water....
Bedbugs don't need water, they drink your blood

[snapdragen]

Bedbugs don't need water, they drink your blood

but they need to wash it down......with tiny bottles of water

[Veronica]

i've ALWAYS gotten BOTTLED water.. AND they've always given me the whole bottle... with a glass of ice....



You don't see the bottled water as an issue because you have never had a problem. That does not mean others have not had a problem.

There is a reason people are in a fuss about the water. It's not that they are hysterical and want to cause trouble. If you had ever been given a glass full of not very tasty water on a flight, maybe you would understand a bit better. If you had medical issues that made staying hydrated necessary, maybe you'd have some empathy.

Not everyone has the same life experiences and issues.




Veronica

[mimitabby]

but they need to wash it down......with tiny bottles of water
okay, i am getting the idea. WATER bottles are EVIL!
:p :eek:

[jobob]

Maybe I'll get one of those leeetle bottles of vodka instead. Hold the ice, pleeeeze.

[Veronica]

Maybe I'll get one of those leeetle bottles of vodka instead. Hold the ice, pleeeeze.

Hey that was my suggestion days ago - well I said whiskey for everyone. :) But I don't think the kind of alcohol really matters... just so long as it makes everyone happy or go to sleep. And isn't enough to make anyone mean.

V.

[jobob]

The one nice thing I discovered about Dulles airport:

Vino Vollo Whine Bar (http://www.vinovolo.com/visit.php)

My flight home was delayed the last time I was there and I killed a very pleasant hour and a few brain cells.

[SadieKate]

Now you're talking, Jo. Shall I confess here that I have a flask? Oh, you knew that because we bought cages for them for our bikes. I started leaving mine at home because I was tired of having my bags searched for a little Amaretto. I may start again just to annoy the TSA. With X-ray machines it should make it faster for them.


i would definitely double check cuz i did hear on one newscast that contact solution was one way of getting the "liquid" they needed on the plane (along with sports drinksHuh? You think I faked the linked to the TSA website which specifically says saline solution is acceptable?

Some airlines do not provide bottled water, one of those being America West -- and, yes, I asked. Perhaps, Cali, if you asked, if you'd get a different answer.

There are signs in the airports stating no water or beverages or whatever may be brought on board. Filling a nalgene bottle and carrying it aboard is a risk. I can just see an entire plane emptied or re-routed when the attendants catch site of this bottle.

I can just see someone with DVT or PE going without water for very long. I delayed my MS injection because I need a lot of water the day after the shot.

[SadieKate]

The one nice thing I discovered about Dulles airport:

Vino Vollo Whine Bar (http://www.vinovolo.com/visit.php)

My flight home was delayed the last time I was there and I killed a very pleasant hour and a few brain cells.This is the store that is under construction right next to the American West terminals in Sac!

Several of my co-workers were most grateful that I had brought wine on the last trip since there was no chance this time. They hoped the TSA gets this figured out fast because they'd like to put in their orders for the next trip.:rolleyes:

[mimitabby]

There are signs in the airports stating no water or beverages or whatever may be brought on board. Filling a nalgene bottle and carrying it aboard is a risk. I can just see an entire plane emptied or re-routed when the attendants catch site of this bottle.



SadieKate, i did not say my son was right or even smart for doing what he did.
I gave him grief for doing it. His only response was, I did it in full view of the world!
The reason why i shared it with you all was just to let you know that the security measures aren't working too well if this could happen at JFK airport just a week (not quite) after this hullaballoo started.

[SadieKate]

Oh, I wasn't saying you did, Mimi. Sorry if I gave you that impression. One of my co-workers said that someone pulled a soda out of his backpack on her flight and then professed ignorance.

Then, there was the guy in front of me in the security line tonight. I started to wonder if he'd flown in the last 10 years. He pulled item after item out of his pockets, went back for one of the plastic bags they provide now (instead of the bowl) for this stuff, then rememered his belt, then his shoes, then his computer, then his phone, Blackberry, jacket, etc. I think it took 4 bins. I finally just gave him a big smile and said, "I'm cutting in front because I'm ready to roll. OK with you?" I already had my jewelry off and in my bag. I left my computer home because of the short trip and always wear slip-on shoes. 5 secs max to put stuff on the security belt.

[caligurl]

no doubt i'll get trashed for this too (seems like the same few gripe about EVERYTHING i say!)... but i've brought back wine from new york NUMEROUS times... PACKED IN MY CHECKED luggage.. and NEVER had a broken bottle...i was just very careful about the way i packed it... wrapped in clothes and well padded....

but then... where there's a will there's a way... NO WAY was i lugging around HEAVY bottles of win through airports with layovers...

mimi... don't worry about it... it all worked out well for your son!

as for water on the plane..... i'm done with the subject... i guess i'm just easier to please... since i've never carried water onto the plane.. i've decided i don't need to argue with you all about it... since it doesn't pertain to me!

ok.. go ahead... trash this post too!

[jobob]

The other nice things about that wine bar, besides the excellent wine and the very tasty appetizers, was that it had comfy chairs and it was reasonably quiet. I was chatting with the manager a bit and he told me they were planning to expand to other airports so I'm glad to hear it's finally happening.

[Veronica]

That's good to know Jo. I'm not much of a drinker, but I like to eat. It seems like a lot of the airport places are fast food. Although I really do like the breakfast burrito at the place in Oakland.

V.

[SadieKate]

Ginger Carrot lotion? Eeeewwwwww.I know. It kind of smells like clean dirt which can be nice . . . when I'm gardening. I think it is a Bath and Body Works product. I like ginger carrot soup.

I stayed at the Valley Ho Hotel (ya gotta love that name) the last time I was in Scottsdale. They had used the Icelandic moonflower collection from www.redflower.com. Yummy. I'm trying to figure out how to justify buying a gigantic bottle of lotion.

[Veronica]

I stayed at the Valley Ho Hotel (ya gotta love that name)


Did I tell you about my fifth graders asking me what a 'ho was this year? I was mortified!

V.

[SadieKate]

NOOOO! Well, you gotta do something with the poop in the garden.:D

[jobob]

I stayed at the Valley Ho Hotel (ya gotta love that name)

Get out !!!! Did you snag any notepads or pens or coasters? Definite collectibles.

[Veronica]

NOOOO! Well, you gotta do something with the poop in the garden.:D


ROTFLMAO :cool:

V.

[KnottedYet]

Drifting! Drift alert!

Veronica - did you see the Converse Chuck Taylors in Bicycling magazine last month with "Ride Lots" embroidered on them? Just like your quote under your avatar!

Now that Nike owns Converse, they've really been expanding the Chucks. And you can order them personalized!

End of Drift. Thank you for your patience.

[Susarific]

Caligurl, I hope to have you on a flight sometime!! I love your posts!!! :)

[snapdragen]

So I'm thinking road trip (or air trip) to Scottsdale, just so we can stay at the 'Ho. I'll hit Bevmo for teeny bottles of vodka and whiskey - heck, we can make a weekend of it.....:cool:

They must have t-shirts at the 'Ho. "My friends went to The 'Ho, and all I got was this lousy t-shirt"

[SadieKate]

http://www.hotelvalleyho.com/content/index.html?

Shoot, I should have at least brought the room service menu. I don't think there was anything else except the yummy lotion. It's kind of a cool place with some glitzy history and had just been renovated.

[snapdragen]

Sung to Bali Hai:

Valley ho oh
Valley ho oh

I want to go. I admit it, I love staying in hotels. I love room service, and pay per view movies, and cabanas, and cocktails.

Valley ho oh
Valley ho oh

[jobob]

I vote we hold the First Annual TE Reunion at the 'Ho.

[snapdragen]

We can call it the 'Ho Down!!


sorry.......

[SadieKate]

You know, Amici Veloci should not be laughing at their name considering our club greeting. On the other hand, it is nice that we recognize kndred spirits.

The Marriott was so boring . . . . plus, The 'Ho allowed pooches.

[snapdragen]

So we make reservations under "Amici Veloci My A$$", correct?

[SadieKate]

We can call it the 'Ho Down!!


sorry.......Oh gawd.:rolleyes:

Isn't that what you have at a SadieKate Hawkins' Dance?

[snapdragen]

talk about your thread hijacks.....

Do we have to wear daisy dukes to the 'Ho Down?

[SadieKate]

It depends. Will the contrasting stitching make my nekkid and lumpy butt cheeks look fatter?

[snapdragen]

We'll just carry Banana Bags to distract.....

[mimitabby]

Drifting! Drift alert!


Now that Nike owns Converse,

End of Drift. Thank you for your patience.

WHAT???? NIKE OWNS CONVERSE????? Isn't that like nestle's buying out Hershey's ???

[snapdragen]

Could be worse mimi - like Nestle buying out Scharffen Berger, or Valrhona (sp?) :D

[mimitabby]

Could be worse mimi - like Nestle buying out Scharffen Berger, or Valrhona (sp?) :D
The Hershey company:

In August 2005, the Company announced that it had acquired the assets of Joseph Schmidt Confections, Inc., a chocolate maker located in San Francisco, California. In August 2005, the Company completed the previously announced acquisition of Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, Inc., based in San Francisco, California.

[chickwhorips]

i am laughing so hard at where this thread (drift) has gone. good morning entertainment.

[mimitabby]

i am laughing so hard at where this thread (drift) has gone. good morning entertainment.
tell me what's more important than chocolate!

[chickwhorips]

tell me what's more important than chocolate!

uhhh.... ummmm.... oh e oh ah ah ching chang whatta whatta bing bang... oh sorry got caught up in the moment.

to answer your question: NOTHING!

[Melody]

I too have some name variations to deal with, but they didn't seem to look too closely. Are you sure you couldn't get one doctor to write you a "prescription" to cover all your meds for travel purposes? Maybe your GP?

I might be able to do that though the insurance company won't cover it since it's still considered a maintenance medication and isn't new. :/ All other maintenance meds I have to do via mail order. Very annoying.


Also, I mixed various meds into one (prescription) bottle. ... This too did not create a problem: Prescription bottle. Name matches ticket. Nobody checked whether contents matched label. Hmmmm. Maybe not so secure after all.

I typically do this too on a trip. I have so many spare medicine bottles just lying around (I re-use them to hold things like buttons, screws, etc) that when I travel I typically put a days worth of medication in the little bottles and then I know 8 bottles, 8 days of meds.

It seems kind of silly that they don't check that the medication itself matches though, but really I am not complaining. :p

Mel

[caligurl]

tell me what's more important than chocolate!

chocolate peanut butter!!!!!!!!!!!

[mimitabby]

chocolate peanut butter!!!!!!!!!!!
hey gurl, you and me, we're going to get along fine. You can have all the chocolates with the peanut butter, and I'll eat all the plain ones. :cool:
especially the Valhrona and the Schwartzneberger and the Lindt.

[caligurl]

hey gurl, you and me, we're going to get along fine. You can have all the chocolates with the peanut butter, and I'll eat all the plain ones. :cool:
especially the Valhrona and the Schwartzneberger and the Lindt.

sound like a plan!!!!!!! yummy!!!!!

[snapdragen]

The Hershey company:

In August 2005, the Company announced that it had acquired the assets of Joseph Schmidt Confections, Inc., a chocolate maker located in San Francisco, California. In August 2005, the Company completed the previously announced acquisition of Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, Inc., based in San Francisco, California.


Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh!

[snapdragen]

Schwartzneberger?

[chickwhorips]

chocolate peanut butter!!!!!!!!!!!


mmmm..... nutty bars
(you can't buy them online either, i know i've looked)

[donnambr]

Yum, thread drift...

http://www.equalexchange.com/images/stories/products/choc-vdrk.jpg