NASP 2009 Annual Convention

Travel Tips

Listed below are a few tips that may help make your trip go more smoothly. For more information on airport security checkpoints, wait times, and other packing tips, visit www.tsa.gov.

FLY WITH THE SCOOP. Before arriving at the airport, get the details. Information about flights, baggage allowances, nonacceptable travel items, security procedures, airport check-in and security wait times, and acceptable forms of ID all can be found online at most airline websites, or visit http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.

FLY ORGANIZED. Don’t be slowed down by last-minute details. Get your seat assignment in advance; make ticketing changes and any special need requests before the day of travel. When making your reservation, confirm the correct spelling of your name, and make sure all contact phone numbers and e-mail addresses are current.

FLY PREPARED. Pack carry-on bags with essential items. Place contact name information inside and outside baggage. For international travel, make sure passports and visas are current for all passengers, including infants. Keep all identification and ticketing documents in a handy location, and remember that checking baggage will make security checkpoints smoother and faster.

FLY VIRTUAL. To avoid long lines at the ticket counter, try your airline’s virtual check-in (VCI) options or self-service kiosks. VCI allows passengers to check in on an airline’s website using personal digital assistants or Web-enabled phones and through toll-free telephone lines. Customers may use the new self-service kiosks to check in, check baggage, request upgrades, and make seat selections.

FLY EARLY. Arrive at the airport at least 1 hour before flight departure for domestic travel and at least 2 hours for international travel. Check the airline’s website for airport wait and check-in estimates for specific airports during peak and off-peak times, and budget extra time for random security checks. Be prepared to remove shoes, jackets, scarves, belts, and any metal or sharp objects as you visit security screening. Have your ID ready, remove laptop computers from their cases, and empty your pockets.

FLY INFORMED. When waiting to board the aircraft, use the gate information and flight information display screens to keep informed on departure times, standby procedures, and the current weather at your destination city. To expedite the boarding process, arrive at the gate early with your boarding pass, e-ticket receipt, passport, personal ID card, and other documentation ready.

FLY CONNECTED. Upon landing, listen to gate announcements, especially if you have a connecting flight.