Staff Reports
As the festive season approaches, many folks are excited to travel and spend time with family and friends. However, before heading to the airport, it’s essential to be mindful of what you can and cannot bring on board. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), one of the chief culprits for delays during security screening is the presence of prohibited items in carry-on bags. Everyone knows not to show up with a forgotten water bottle, but there are other surprising items on that “don’t bring” list, like wrapped gifts.
Imagine showing up at the checkpoint, excited to deliver your beautifully wrapped present, only to watch in horror as TSA agents unwrap it for inspection. Wrapped gifts can look suspicious to security personnel, making it more likely for them to be opened. Instead, travelers are encouraged to use gift bags or boxes, which can be wrapped on the other side of the flight. The best practice? Leaving those gifts unwrapped until you reach your destination. It saves time and keeps your efforts from being unceremoniously undone at the airport.
When it comes to food items, travelers should be particularly cautious. While tasty treats are often hard to resist, those in liquid form can be a problem. The TSA specifies that if any food can be sprayed, squeezed, or spilled, it must be checked or contained within a 3.4-ounce container. So, while grandma’s fruitcake might make the cut, that delectable eggnog you can’t live without will need to meet specific criteria before it gets packed. Don’t forget the infamous one-size plastic bag rule; it’s a perennial favorite for good reason. For many who haven’t flown in a while, this reminder could be the difference between a smooth journey and a messy mishap.
In yet another holiday first, new rules from the Transportation Department will allow passengers to receive automatic cash refunds for canceled or significantly delayed flights. In the past, consumers often had to jump through hoops to get their money back, but those days are behind us. If airlines cancel flights and you purchased a nonrefundable ticket, you could be entitled to cash back—even if that cancellation was due to weather. Airlines will try to entice you with credits for future travel, but remember, you have the right to refuse and demand your refund if your plans suddenly go south.
As for what constitutes a “significant delay,” travelers should be aware that domestic flights delayed by three hours or more will qualify for compensation, while international flights need to experience delays of six hours or more. Don’t forget about your luggage either; if your bags are delayed by more than 12 hours after landing (or 15 hours for international flights), you could get those checked bag fees refunded—even if you get your bags eventually.
So as the holiday season ramps up, travelers should arm themselves with these important tips. Whether it’s ensuring gifts stay unwrapped or navigating food restrictions, being well-prepared can help make the journey smoother. And with new rules providing better protections, travelers can enjoy their trips with a little more peace of mind. Happy holiday traveling to all, and may your flights be on time and your bags arrive safe and sound!
