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Time-savers: Packing smart

Packing for a trip has become more complicated in this new age of restrictions on and what you can put in your luggage and how much you can tote on board.

Here are some tips to avoid complications and confiscations at the airport:

1. Carry it on if you can. Consider whether you can pack everything you need in a carry-on bag. Then save time by using online check-in, which allows you to print a boarding pass at home or the office and proceed straight to the security checkpoint. Of course, sticking to carry-on means you won't have to wait at baggage claim at your destination.
   
2. Observe carry-on limits. Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase or laptop, and the items must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment.
   And don't push your luck. Since all checked luggage must be screened before take-off, any last-minute issues about whether a bag should be checked or not can mean delays and inconvenience for you and other passengers.
3. Keep film in your carry-on. High-radiation scanners used for checked baggage may damage film, but checkpoint scanners traditionally used for carry-on luggage should not damage it.
4. Don't pack wrapped gifts. Packages may be opened for inspection, so wait to wrap them at your destination
5. Watch what you put in your carry-on luggage. Lighters are banned as carry-on items and in checked baggage. Many sharp objects are banned in aircraft cabins and must go by checked baggage. Also forbidden are larger objects that could be used as weapons, e.g., golf clubs, ski poles and pool cues. Rule of thumb: If in doubt, leave it out -- or at least put it in checked luggage.
   Items that the Transportation Security Administration does allow you to carry include: walking canes, nail clippers, safety razors (including disposable razors), syringes (if you have a documented medical need), tweezers, umbrellas and eyelash curlers.
6. Charge your laptop. Make sure your laptop battery is fully charged before you leave for the airport. You may be asked to turn it on; if the battery is low, you may have to check it.

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