Details From This Video and Packing List: My jacket: amzn.to/3RYeTEa My travel t-shirt: amzn.to/3NKbTZH (sized up) Gray backpack 15.6: amzn.to/3Oe1mGV Red backpack (also comes in black): bit.ly/NomadSlimBackpack Husband's new backpack: amzn.to/3NLmbZz Black striped backpack: amzn.to/3AUmMkX New pink backpack: bit.ly/47xi7Eb Army green backpack: bit.ly/3sOIjel Really SMALL backpack: amzn.to/4aB6U7j Packing cubes: amzn.to/3RF96SQ My compression cubes: shoptripped.com/Laurie-Holiday23-Carryon-Green Black purse: amzn.to/3QPX7Tx Crossbody strap: amzn.to/45jbfJs My Amazon page: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie Other videos: Best carry-on bags: bit.ly/2023BestCarryOnBags Between Trips Tips: bit.ly/OrganizeTravelGear Mask do not fog reading glasses: email lesoules@gmail.com and her name is Patty. Free packing list: bit.ly/FreeUltimatePackingList Helpful links: www.aa.com/i18n/customer-service/support/customer-service-plan.jsp nypost.com/2023/12/19/lifestyle/airport-security-will-soon-be-like-fast-food-kiosks-with-self-service-screening/ www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/expedited-airport-security/delta-digital-id www.tsa.gov/digital-id
We have a guest bedroom that we use as our travel room: photos from travels on walls, souvenirs and mementos on shelves, etc. But, more importantly, we use it for pre-staging packing for our travels. Several dresser drawers are filled with pre-packed packing cubes of clothes for various types of trips and climates: one drawer for Caribbean/hot weather trips and another for Nordic/winter travel. Another drawer is filled with travel toiletries, all fully organized and ready to be put into their 3-1-1 bags and hanging organizers.
Lol, I'm such an avid traveler that I'm already a step ahead. I have the suitcases already packed with multiple types of destinations: city, beach, winter, spring, family etc. 😅 all I have left is find my travel deals$$$
Am I a stone age person? I do all this spontaneously. I can survive a week or two outside my home without this or that if I forgot to pack something. Don't remember though if I ever had.
Consider getting global entry even if you are only considering visiting a foreign country in the next five years. Global entry includes TSA pre check and is only $22 more than TSA pre check. Both programs are good for 5 years. I think $22 is worth the cost even if I use it only once. Those custom lines can be long.
@@flyingscot47When you book your flights input your Global Entry number (usually in the field asking for the Trusted Traveler number), and your boarding pass should have Pre-Check noted on it for flights out of US airports.
@@flyingscot47 yes, when checking into the airport on the US side you go through TSA so the TSA pre check works at that point. Make sure the airline knows you have TSA pre check so it gets printed in your boarding pass. There is usually a place when you buying your ticket to enter the number.
@ZzXZ636 unless you have global entry (something you apply for months in advance of you trip) you can’t go through global entry and would have to stand in the regular incoming passenger customer lines.
If the $22 difference between TSA precheck and Global Entry is a hardship economically, how can you afford to fly at all? Or pay for precheck in the first place?We travel internationally only once every other year now, but bypassing the ridiculously long reentry lines is worth the extra $22.
I am disabled…the TSA Cares program was an absolutely fabulous experience. I applied on line, got notice when they accepted it and a TSA person met me at the check in gate and helped me through all parts of security. We bypassed several long lines and she even helped me through the screening area. Huge!
In your experience, would you recommend this service for a quite large young autistic individual, to ease his fright and particularly sensory issues? I could help an suris ic adult very big
@@lillvill6403 Absolutely! When you apply you explain what the person needs and why, the only issue is if it’s available at the airports you are using. Go on line to TSA Cares and take a look. You won’t have to “prove” you need it, simply explain why and what you need. Good Luck it’s an awesome program!🥰
@@everhappy6312 It really was a great experience, interesting Canada doesn’t have the program but I found the airport really accessible. They even had golf carts to take you longer distances. Check at wherever you land they may have something there too. Good luck &safe travels!
Aisle seat area ALWAYS smaller! If you are in an aisle seat, the under-seat area is smaller than the other two seats due to the Seat Frame. So if you love the aisle seat be prepared for a smaller area.
I noticed that, my son prefers the aisle seat because he likes to use the restroom a lot but doesn’t want to ask. His backpack barely fit on our last flight so I swapped bags with him.
I personally feel it's easier to have my ID and a paper boarding pass (yes, a paper boarding pass) in hand than to keep my phone out, in my hand, and unlocked through security and the boarding process. Easier to show and slip in a bag pocket after. And I travel a lot, and have tried many different scenarios.
I’ve been traveling from a hot climate to Alaska over Xmas & into New Year with doggie 🐶 so I have a gallon baggie flattened & folded in half! This keeps my ID 🪪 & Dog health certificate & updated shot list & my boarding pass all together!
So, let me get this straight: The airlines are losing more luggage than ever. The space under the seats is getting smaller. The gate agents are making more people check their carry-on bags (even if there is space). It's maddening. I'm leaving for a trip to Quinto, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands in two weeks, and it feels like it's me against the airlines.
I think I confused you; they are not losing more luggage; we as passengers just need to pack with the just in case for our absolute essentials. We always have options though.
Traveling is moving around outside your normal zone so always expect challenges, be prepared for disruptions in your plans, and accept the inconveniences. You’ll enjoy it more. I’ve got 20 countries down and counting! At least 5 more this year! 🎉
@@Renna-j I fly twice a month across the country. I rarely come across a rude gate or flight attendant. Some are more friendly than others, but in general, I find my politeness and smile is met equally by them. Kindness and understanding goes a long way. Many of these folks work very long hours and aren't paid for all these hours they are there. It's a screwed up system they work within.
My solution to 'put your crossbody bag in your other bag' is to wear, as my normal flight outfit, a Scottevest black vest and red hoodie jacket - between them, I get over 30 pockets and can pretty much fit a personal item's worth of stuff on my body, and it doesn't count as part of my carryon.
I wore my vest to Australia and it was quite comfortable but my favorite part of wearing the vest was being able to keep anything valuable on me. I also had my passport and papers easily assessable.
Laurie, your travel tips are the best! I viewed many of your videos before my recent trip. I was nervous bc I hadn't flown in almost 20 years and was flying by myself. Without your tips, I would have been unorganized, unprepared and much more nervous. Thanks Laurie and I look forward to more great videos in 2024!
My experience with liquids and security lines overall in the EU it’s always a mystery. Every time we travel we county hop and every airport is different. I just roll with it and go into the process with the mindset that I will have to do something different for that security line. I was observed with being “prepared “ but it is impossible to do that when all the airports have their own way of doing things including in the US. My best live hack is Roll with it and be prepared to accommodate and don’t get ticked off at the agents that are just doing their job, It’s nothing personal Happy new year 🥳
Please don't order things with the intention of returning them. Just a heads-up but a vast majority of the time things that are returned to Amazon end up in landfills. Not saying to never return a defective item, just saying to be conscious of what those free-return policies actually mean. Otherwise great video! 😊
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie @Qbertbird You're way too nice. There are many legitimate reasons for returning items: - Defective - Incorrectly/dishonestly described - Incorrectly sized This is not one of those legitimate reasons. Not even close. And the environmental issues are not the biggest part of the problem. Somebody has to pay for those bags, so either the seller loses the money or the price goes up for the rest of us. To do this intentionally is tantamount to fraud/theft. How is it possible that this woman doesn't understand this ... or does she just not give a damn? And this isn't even some fifteen year old jerk TikTok kid, this is a middle aged woman behaving this way. Where do arrogant, !diot azzholes like this come from? Seriously, how does this woman live to this age and still think this is acceptable behavior? It's appalling.
@@susangilliam6400 60% of all items sold and 40% of dollar value sold on Amazon are from third party sellers. They aren't there to check and repackage the item ... it goes to either the returns "buy by the bin" warehouse or to the landfill ... and the seller has to eat the loss or raise prices to cover it.
global entry saved us from missing our flight in Atlanta-- International flights do not leave on time-- ours was 1:10 hours late in leaving Amsterdan. It took us 7-10 minutes to clear customs with global entry versus 1.5 - 2 hours through regular customs.. Delta had even sent me a voucher for a free hotel stay and a meal voucher because of the late arrival, but we didn't need them
Not true for all flights or airlines. I took two international flights round trip to Japan. They both left on time. I actually ended up having to rebook one flight due to the amount of time it took to get through customs and immigration. I have global entry...the line was STILL long. It was crazy.
Thank you for your great tips. I actually also use them for domestic travel in our car! I admit I get a charge out of having one carryon bag, one personal bag and one crossbody bag. I can wheel my own bag to our room while my husband juggles several suitcases, a camera bag and a few miscellaneous brief cases for even the simplest of trips. I still have everything I need for any occasion on the trip. (I only read electronic books and magazines when we travel.) it is great to feel efficient and independent when you are 76!
I’m envious of your ability to par down to essentials that work for you. I find I can par down, a bit, but the actual suitcase is heavier, so is my carry on. So even though I can carry it all myself, it wears me out.
Global entry is worth it for me even if flying internationally once a year. It includes TSA pre check and makes getting through customs SO much easier and several major credit cards reimburse the cost, so it’s essentially free.
@@simonewilliamson3218 You have to apply for a global entry card like you would a passport, then an appointment will be made for you to at the closest office…usually at a entry point or international airport. If you have a major credit card, like an american express or a travel reward card, many have a policy to reimburse you for the fee. Once you have the Global Entry, it’s a whiz to go through customs in a separate lane and you get TSA pre check with it, so going through security at the domestic airports is a lot easier.
As always, terrific video and information, Laurie. I really welcome and appreciate being kept up-to-date. Adding to something I posted awhile ago about traveling anywhere with prescription controlled substances: the last time I flew, TSA DID indeed double check me for that; on the way to my destination, and on the way home again. It cannot be stressed strongly enough, prescription pain meds (narcotics) MUST be kept in the bottle they're prescribed in. Not doing so is playing Russian Roulette. Happy New Year to you and yours, and my fellow subs here 🎇🎊🎉
Global Entry is so forth it for my husband and I. We travel internationally about every 3 mos and the line for Global Entry was just 2 people ahead of us on Dec 15th. Also the TSA pre check is a great bonus when traveling in the US. Worth every penny!
Super informative video, thanks! Minor but important correction - global entry can be used in other countries if they have an agreement with the U.S. to clear customs in that country. For example, we used the Global Entry kiosk in the Dublin Ireland airport and the entire process took less than two minutes to clear customs for our return to the U.S. I think the same was true for a Calgary Canada trip.
So fun to see you in the Brussels airport lounge!! I started using the Tom Bihn 3D organizer cube for my liquids (1 liter size, so it is slightly smaller than our one quart ziplock bags) and have successfully transited through Heathrow WITHOUT having to transfer my items to their flimsy little zip bags. I even had one officer tell me it was "perfect"😊
I think Global Entry is worth it even if you fly internationally once a year. It’s worth the $20 to speed through lines (if you fly once a year), especially if you have connections. And you’re right re Denver. I fly there once a year and am so thankful I have the included TSA pre check.
@@jeanwoodhouse6456 Sorry. If one were to fly once a year over five years, the cost would be $20/year. I paid $100, as well, but was later reimbursed through my credit card.
@@jeanwoodhouse6456Global Entry is $100....TSA Pre-check alone is $75... So for $25 more, you get a huge benefit if you fly international.... Or you could say that you get all the benefits of TSA pre-check in the States and you get the benefit of cruising thru customs when you come home from an international flight.... Potato/tomato---potah-to/tomah-to 🤣
The other issue with Global Entry is that you can only obtain it at certain larger airports. There is only one available airport in my state (PDX in Oregon); whereas Precheck is available at many smaller, local airports. Returning to the US through Dallas from Europe this past summer, customs clearance was only a few minutes slower using the My Passport app than my friends who had Global Entry.
Equating TSA self scan to grocery store self checkout does not really give me confidence. Self checkout has become a good way to get accused of/ arrested for theft, particularly with certain retailers.
Just returned from London and Paris - had a side trip to Calais and Lille due to the Eurostar tunnel strike. Was so happy for all the time I've spent watching your videos, I felt so much more comfortable with all processes. My biggest take? US TSA and CUSTOMS could take some training from Heathrow. I felt their folks were patient and seemed to view their job to be HELPFUL. I observed an encounter in DFW in which the TSA guy needed a break, a day off, extra training - not sure, but he was screaming instructions that very few people understood. So he would just scream the same thing more loudly!
Had similar experience on the way back from Barcelona this past June, had layover in Philadelphia and TSA agent kept yelling the rules at us over and over like we were idiots in a prison. Just the worst!
Was SCREAMED at by TSA in Seattle. He behaved like the doorman in the Wizard of Oz. But then what can be expected in rude, constantly under construction SeaTac. Tacky place
I have a tip for older travelers who haven't traveled in awhile. If you've developed mobility issues, try to find out if your flight will embark or disembark via portable stairs. My husband and I were caught off-guard when an airplane in Vietnam landed away from the terminal. I'd just had a cortisone injection in one knee and my husband has heart disease. In theory, we could have managed the steps going down, but it would have been tough with our carry-on luggage. So, that's how we found out how people who need wheelchairs get off the plane. Our next flight on Vietnam Airlines had a gate change from an upper to lower level in the airport. We should have considered that stairs were in our future, but we'd done so much traveling we were exhausted. We held the flight up for 15 minutes due to our last minute request for the elevator. It was pretty embarrassing. The lovely gate agent suggested very kindly that we should have made the request at check-in, but the gate change came after check-in. I have to say that the Vietnam Airline personnel were very kind and supportive. I checked my carryon bag on the flights back to the U.S. Just a word of caution for those getting up in years. Safe travels.
Thank you from two NZ seniors who have used all you tips and completed a 7 week tour using carry-on bags & 20L day back packs and compression cubes, from Hawaii - Alaska - Vancouver - Banff - Washington DC - North Carolina & Houston. Everything went very well and we will use this same packing process next year when travelling in Europe. Raelene
Laurie - My husband and I would love to do the Christmas markets in Europe next year. Any chance you’d make a video sharing your travel tips surrounding your experiences from your recent trip? (Pretty please! ❤) Happy 2024 and thank you for your excellent content!
Hi, I do have one that should pop up. Mainly I was thinking I was going just to see them, but the rest of the day you can take a tour or find a cool place to eat. I wish I had planned that. Here it is: bit.ly/PackForChristmasMarket
I came back from Italy yesterday and landed at 2:53pm at DFW and custom border line was mile and half, so went all the way a mile back to get our space to line up and walk a mile to have our customs clearance, it took 25 minutes!! I love your travel tips and it helps me a lot ❤
We flew through Frankfurt international airport on our way to Prague during Thanksgiving. Frankfurt airport was a nightmare. In order to make our connecting flight they required us to get on a shuttle to the other terminal. Unfortunately, the wait for the shuttle was over 45 minutes. Then we had to go through customs where only three agents were working. Our wait there was over an hour. We missed our connecting flight to Prague. I would advise staying away from the Frankfurt airport if at all possible. On our flight home, we connected through Munich, which was better. My favorite place to catch connecting flights to and from Europe is Iceland, if at all possible. Not busy at all and the staff are super friendly.
Frankfurt is terrible, Lufthansa staff are consistently snippy, even with each other! Munich is laid out a bit better, but yeah, Lufthansa is annoying.
Sometimes you have to go with what the airline offers- no choice. We always make sure to have 90+ minutes when connecting - no matter where- because you cannot predict what is happening at any given airport
@@elizabethk9656 it wasn’t the airline. It was the airport. We do the same but this took over two hours, which is ridiculous. We travel a good bit and Frankfurt International Airport is the only place we’ve ever had a problem like this.
Mobile Passport vs Global Entry. On a recent international trip landing in Boston, Regular passport lines were very long, Global entry lines were not too long, but there were lines. Mobile passport had NO LINE. I had downloaded the Mobile Passport app ahead of time and went to that lane instead of global entry.
Happy new year! And yes, the personal item space under the seat varies a lot. That is why my personal item is either a backpack or duffel that can be squished.
where is lovelock bag? Will this work on united flights within the united states. My first time traveling and this is so much to take in! I have noticed that united has restrictions for personal bags that are 9 inch x 17x 10
Thanks for the new tips. We've done carry on for the last 3 trips and I loved feeling secure that I had everything with me. However, lifting the carry on into the overhead bin is such a challenge. So heavy. I think we may go back to checking a bag and hope it doesn't get lost. Regarding your cross body purse problem, our last flight on Alaskan air, they did not ask me to remove my fannie pack. You are right about some airlines have agents who are very picky. I do have a Scotty vest with 42 pockets that holds a lot, but it makes me hot on the plane.
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Yes, the vests hold a lot, they zip, and can get a bit heavy, but so nice to just slip what you need at your seat in the various pockets. You have to memorize which pockets you use for what. Google Scottevest. I got a woman's black vest with 42 pockets. I originally got it for going to Europe since their carry on limits can be strict.
Laurie,This video is right on and so helpful. I'm a very experienced domestic & international traveler. Two things that you mentioned that are SO important, especially flying internationally, is to make sure you only have a carry on and personal bag to take in the cabin with you --if you also have a cross-body bag, make sure it fits into your person bag and that it has your essential items in it (meds, etc). In London, I was the 3rd person to board and they forced me to check in my small carry-on but let others behind me with much bigger carry-ons take them in the cabin. Made no sense! Also, the Baggallini "Modern Everywhere Laptop Backpack"(personal bag) is beyond compare.
I looked at that backpack… it’s so cute, but I feel like I wouldn’t be able to fit all of my items. When we travel internationally, I always check a suitcase then my backpack has to have a compression cube with clothing in case luggage is delayed/lost. Then I have medications, backup scrip eyeglasses, toiletries, laptops and tablets with charging stuff, snacks, and large scarf for extra warmth, maybe I’m packing wrong? So frustrating
@@elizabethk9656 The Baggallini "Modern Everywhere Laptop Backpack" would hold everything you mentioned but not more than one laptop/tablet. It sounds like you're using your backpack as a "carry-on" and not a "personal bag," which is fine, but then, yes, you would need a larger backpack.
Laurie, I live in Vegas and you are better informed than those of us that live here!😂. Just finished with a trip to Italy. The Rome airport did not have to remove liquids, shoes or anything ! They just yelled at me for trying to do those things! We went through customs at Denver. I've neve been so happy to have Global Entry. The price was worth it even if that's the only overseas trip I take in the next 5 years!🎉Happy New Year🎉
I recently traveled through Paris and, for the first time, I also saw several signs about only 2 items. At the gate, they were making people either check or combine other items. It's just easier to follow the rules from the beginning than at the gate.
Great tips. A trip last summer I didn't realize how small the overhead bin space would be on smaller planes (basic logic forgotten) but because I was early onto the plane was able to get everything stowed. Witnessing others needing to gate-check bags, I remembered on the way back to put an AirTag from my keyring into my larger bag in case it had to get checked, which it did. Since it was gate-checked, there was a place to retrieve once landed (not at baggage claim) so I knew the risk of losing the luggage would be low, but it gave me peace of mind -- if you know where your luggage is, and it won't make your destination, at least you know rather than worry about it and can plan accordingly (hello, shopping!). As soon as I got home, I got another 4-pack of AirTags, and now everything is tracked. Maybe a bit much, but it's a simple and effective way to know where your stuff is.
It sounds like alot to some people, but I truly believe that you learn by experience. And that helped you think about that when it happened. Love it and thanks for sharing.
The last time I was on a small plane, it was open season on bin space and the person next to me had three bags, one so large he could have packed a family member inside. Unsure who was on the gate, but they really were not looking!
Not too much, I'd say. I used to use Tiles but prefer Airtags now. It saved me a couple of years ago. I flew Lufthansa from Frankfurt to Chicago but my bag went to Munich. Lufthansa was great and asked me for a detailed description of the bag and anything else I could tell them. It was my favorite blue Eagle Creek bag so that was easy. And with the tag, I was able to locate the bag via the "Find My" app to the exact terminal in Munich. Lufthansa delivered my bag to my door the next day.
I just got my 3rd Global Entry card this last summer. My wife who came here last fall as an immigrant/green card last summer got her GE in September. I’ve always felt it’s worth the $100. We fly trans Atlantic 2x per year and to Mexico 4-6 times plus domestic. Worth every penny
I flew out of Nashville, and TSA just scanned my driver's license. My ticket comes up on the monitor. One of my favorites this year is that AA runs a bus from Atlantic City to Philadelphia with TSA check in the smaller airport. It's so nice and saves time.
I have been flying out of Columbus OH and Ft Myers Fl frequently and both locations scan your license only…except when boarding, then you just need your ticket on your phone. If I’m not checking a bag, I go straight to security and skip the front desk.
Great video! So comprehensive and relevent. You are the queen of travel planning. Your current personal anecdotes help as well. You save us alot of grief to know before we go.
Wow, lots of info in this one! I wish more airports would have the rooms that you can rent for a few hours - and have better hours. Here, while our flights usually leave for the south at 6 a.m., that means we have to go through security no later than 3:15, the wee hours of the morning. People from outside of the city always get their ride to the airport the night prior and then have to sit there for 5 or more hours waiting. Having those little rooms would mean that they could catch a few hours of sleep! Thanks for all of your videos and Happy New Year to you and yours, Laurie!
Love your travel tips!! This will be the first time we've flown in over 13 years!! I pray everyone is kind and understanding while we get our "feet wet" once again with traveling :)
Hi Anne, just arrive 2 hours before the boarding time so you do not feel rushed. When you are in a hurry, that is when we forget or lose items. This may help: bit.ly/HowToTSALine
I am so glad I found you. We do not fly frequently and watching your channel has really lessened my anxiety over what to take with me and how to pack. Happy New Year.
Thank you, Laurie! Days before an international trip, we learned the Delta 767 under seat area was now only 10x12x9”. This required me to purchase a different bag and a lot of downsizing.
I really like printing paper boarding passes and putting them in the ID page of my passport. it's just so much easier than electronic documents. and I'm putting my money on the self service TSA checkpoints having slower passenger throughput than the staffed checkpoints. I intend to start collecting all the "uncheckables" in one of our two carryon bags, so one can be checked. we have too much to put in a personal item bag; and we prefer to check the bulky stuff, and not carry a personal item bag.
Laurie, lots of good tips. I shouted Denver before you said it! I can’t carry much so just researched the smallest wheeled under seater and found a London Fog 15 by 13 by 7, received it and am anxious to test it. Another flying issue is when airline gives a short layover. I flew Charlotte to LA arriving 9:40 am with next flight leaving 10:15! Of course I missed it. AA had NO another flights to Sacramento that day. I was supposed to be in Sac before noon but spent the day traveling to Dallas then Sacramento! But I had great vacation so just went with the flow. Happy New Year to you!
RE: liquids, many airports in Europe (and most in Asia /Middle East) do not require to take out liquids or fit them in a small plastic bag any more. Out of about 50 segments last year, I only had to take out my liquids in LHR.
And sometimes they require them to be taken out then the next time you go through there three weeks later, you’re treated like a criminal because you don’t….. looking at you, Bangkok lol
Traveled to Portugal this year and used Global Entry for the first time. It was worth every penny. We had to connect in Newark 😱 on return to Houston. We flew through a very long line!!
The Vegas concept is intriguing. Flying is so invasive and lacking dignity these days, so it's great to see a change perhaps in the right direction to fix that.
We have found that Global Entry has saved us from missing our connecting flights multiple times, since it great expedites the re-entry process in the U.S.!
For those of us on Canadian border states, NEXUS includes TSA Precheck and Global Entry and it's less expensive than doing Global Entry on its own. BUT! You have to get it at a NEXUS office (usually at Boarder Control). We couldn't get it when we did Global Entry because the NEXUS offices were closed due to Covid, but they are all open now.
Thank you! Your tips helped me when prepping for and during a 3 -week trip to France in November. I hadn't been to Europe in 40+ years, but the travel was easy!
Remember the European Union has its own airplane rules. They require the airline to do certain things for a passenger if the flight is delayed or canceled. Right before the pandemic - so a few years ago - our flight from Belgium to Poland was cancelled due to a broken part they could not replace. My husband tweeted it and a number of European lawyers contacted us. They pursued this for us and a couple of months later a couple of hundred Euros was deposited into our account. We were very wary of this but researched it. Just remember the rules in Europe for airlines are better for passengers.
Anyone flying a European airline to/from Europe should know the ins and outs of EU261. Our family of 4 were downgraded two fare classes (equipment change) outbound and return. Spent 5 minutes of mouse clicks filing our EU261 claim with that airline on our return and in less than a week had a four-figure refund. Sweet!
Hi Laurie, I love, LOVE your videos and this one is is packed with info that will come in handy for 2024. Thanks for the infor regarding the Schengen visas. I'm glad w can wait another year. The following is a brief description of our latest trip from mid-December to this week We just got back from an extended (3.5 week) trip visiting family and friends. We had to use our Aer Lingus vouchers from 2020 so the first leg of our trip was through Dublin. Fortunately, leaving Chicago O'Hare (ORD) we could fly out of the new International Terminal (#5) instead of Terminal #1 or #2. TSA Pre-check which makes things quick and well worth it for my husband and I. We travel internationally 2-3 times a year. Dublin airport is larger than Shannon but signage was good and getting around was easy though you have to take a bus to the car rental area. Renting a car in Ireland can be expensive. Take out all the insurance you can. It's worth it because if you've never driven on the left side of the road, it can be dangerous too. There are multiples round-abouts and seriously narrow roads and bridges. Your regular insurance will not cover you. Having a good navigator in the passanger seat and GPS on your phone is imperative. We spent a week touring and visiting family. Our next leg of the trip was to Luxembourg via Luxair. Security out of Dublin is like most EU airports. We have to take out computers, remove shoes, and have a separate liquids bag (yes, a tad smaller than US qt-size bags which many airlines will provide prior to security). I was also carrying a lot of chargers, different adaptors, battery packs and cords in a small zippered bag in my carry-on. I got stopped because security couldn't make out what the blocks of heavy things were. Next time, they told me, pull that bag out and place it next to my liquids bag on the tray. I certainly will. I hate getting stopped. The Luxair plane to Luxembourg was small and crowded--no room for underseat luggage and the sandwiches were awful. Since the flight is only 2 hours, it didn't prove difficult. Luxembourg airport was so easy to get through. It's small, security is quick, and the airport is conveniently close to the German border where our son's family lives. After a few weeks with family celebrating Christmas and News Years, we had to head home. We flew out of Luxembourg via Luxair again and back to Dublin. Waiting at the gate in Luxembourg was not so very nice. Once past security, there are no restaurants, just rows of seats crowded by the gates and a snack bar that sold only cold sandwiches (fortunately, yes, beer and wine). This flight, again a short 2 hours, was packed with teenagers going on a school trip to Dublin. Cold sandwiches were horrible. but the alcohol was plentiful. (Were we the only adults on board?) The kids were hilarious, reminding me of our granddaughters, and when we landed, they cheered and clapped. It was sweet. Since Luxair only flies to Dublin 3-4 times a week, we had to spend one more night with friends in the the city. The final leg of our trip was with Aer Lingus again but Business class this time (had to use up those vouchers). It was wonderful!! First of all there is a Customs Clearance (past the Duty-Free) for flights to the US in Dublin! Having Global entry, we just flew through! Security was quick and, for some reason, we didn't have to remove our shoes or take out computers.?! That's good but it can be confusing. I'm just always prepared for either contingency. Past security and Customs was the wonderful Aer Lingus lounge,. Plenty of comfortable seats, great food, wonderful views of the Wickow Mountains, specifically Sugar Loaf Mountain and we were close to the gate to make it easy to board when our flight was announced. Once we got to Chicago O'Hare, (landing at Terminal #5) we didn't have to go through the long Customs at all. Very good news, but for some unknown reason, we had to pick up our bags at Carousel #12. Never been to Terminal #5? Well, Carousel #12 is way, WAY, far away from all the other carousels, past the McDonalds and tucked into a corner near the security offices for Global Entry. The room is small, tight, and airless. Ugh! Despite that and the snow coming down, it's always good to be home.
Great video!! I have Global Entry and my experience boarding through customs in Los Angeles CA and San Diego was easy and fast. Also, using Global Entry in the US with any airline ticket you purchase online automatically gives TSA Pre-check. Make sure with the airline before you even get to the airport that your TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry Number is on your reservation/ticket. You can check this also when you check online the TSA Pre-Check will be above the bar code on your boarding pass.
yes. America Airlines has been negligent om putting my TSA precheck on ticket...if at the counter..check before you walk away or you're back in a line...I wasn't happy as they didn't correct it...I almost become a Karen...in this case who has to make this right??? I paid for this convenience!!
I made sure to update my Delta app w/the Global Entry number, probably within minutes of getting my approval. But I did check the printed boarding pass just to make sure!
I traveled to the UK in 2022 and had to put liquids in a literal zip top baggie...my usual clear "tea approved" bag was unacceptable. So, now I keep liquids in the smaller ziplock baggie for international flights. Thank you for the tips and tricks.
I flew through Amsterdam this past summer and they let a lady with a half finished, full size soda bottle through security. She was behind me in line and said "oh I need to toss this" and security told her it was ok she could bring it. I was surprised! Also there was hardly any wait time, everything flowed very smoothly.
Thanks for sharing your experience. One other thing to note at Washington Dulles we had a flight departing at 6:00 a.m. Although we have TSA pre-check, the pre-check people do not get there until 5:45 a.m. As a result we had to take our shoes off and pull out the liquids bag. Fortunately, I was prepared but I’m sure it took a lot of people by surprise.
Thank you so much for your informative videos! I only fly once a year and your videos help me immensely. I flew on United and Alaskan airlines through the Seattle, Houston, and Atlanta airports. United under seat carry on had plenty of room for my bag; however, there were no charging port for my cell phone. I did pack a charging bank so no big deal. I had the opposite experience with Alaskan. I did rent a car with Avis at the Atlanta airport. Great customer service. I prepaid for a mystery car and it was an electric car. I refused since I was driving to Panama City, FL. Did not know about the status of charging stations in GA, AL, and FL, limitations of the car in the cold (ATL was in the high 30’s), and the range of the car. I rented a car with previous car body damage and a tire with a slow leak. When I returned the car at the customer service desk, the nice agent said there was only electric cars left to the people who were about the rent a car. At least I had a choice. Overall, my airport, airplane, and car rental experiences were positive, because I made sure I left plenty of time for any possible problems. Again, thank you for making high quality videos. 🙏
Denver International has those very long security lines mostly around holiday weekends. They are also having construction going on with occasional security checkpoint closures. When we flew in late September ‘23 the lines looked a bit long, but moved pretty quickly. As you said, Laurie, leaving early in the day really helps!
Seattle Airport (SEA) has "Spot Saver" which allows you to reserve an appointment for security. You go into a special line (much like PreCheck) which bypasses the regular lines. Also, if you have a first class ticket, you usually are allowed to go into that special line as well.
Going on our first cruise with a GSD SD.. it was ALOT of work to get him cleared to go! It's definitely more work than it's worth to bring a dog that isn't NEEDED!
Hope you enjoyed flying in and out of Knoxville, my home airport. Since it's a small airport, I frequently have to fly on small planes to larger cities with large planes. On small planes I sometimes have to gate check my carry-on bag which I use for my photo gear. My gear travels in shoulder bags or a backpack inside a hard sided roller bag. This way my gear is protected, I have bags to carry and work out of when I get to my destination, and a regular roller suitcase doesn't draw attention. Just thought I'd mention it in case others have gear that they travel with.
Thank you for the reminder to be inside the airport 2 hours before boarding! This one always trips me up, and I have been flying comfort plus too, which I always forget boards earlier...
I had a very limited personal item size for my Australia trip so I got a Fjallraven Kanken backpack. It is a smaller backpack, but opens like a suitcase so you can fit more into it. I would not use it for every trip but it got the job done for meeting the Qantas size regulations. I was able to tuck my Travelon crossbody into the backpack. Learning how to pack light is an art. Lots of stuff I never used.
Regarding carrying liquids overseas. I don’t usually fill my quart bag all the way. I do check luggage and some of my liquids get checked. One way to cut down on liquids is to buy solid shampoo and conditioner. I have colored hair and use products from Humbly. They smell great. You need a lot less of them and they can be eliminated from your bag of liquids. There are other vendors of solid shampoo.
I just came back from Ireland twice and both my carry-ons were quite large because I noticed that everyone else’s were large. The person next to me brought on a fold up wheelchair four carry-on bags and a computer. So I think it varies. This was Delta by the way
If they were a wheelchair user then they may have also had other medical devices. Medical devices are not counted against your carry on/personal bag count. The caveat is don't mingle non medical items in with the medical items because then the airline can decline your exemption.
Laurie!! Received my passport yesterday!! Excited! I always think of you when there is a movement toward my journey to England. I LOVE, LOVE the little pill bags; my sister saw them and also ordered some for our trip to the beach this week. And, the little bottles, the tiny ones look like jars ?? , and fit on top of each other?? , which hold creams...I got a huge amount of lotion in those tiny containers. You are a Doll. Joey
Love your channel. Just got back from Europe; flew American and British Airlines. Heathrow security requires that you repack " liquids" and "creams" in their plastic bags and that included powders (as in powdered makeup items). I had to toss several pricey makeup items to fit all my liquid plus powder items into the bag. Their bags are flimsier than the quart bag I use so it took a while for me to organize my items so they wouldn't tear the bag. Is this only at Heathrow? Plus, the space for under-the-seat carry-on items on the British Airlines plane was smaller and varied depending on where you sat... even in Priority. That is, my boyfriend had twice as much room than I did under the seat in front of him and that space seemed tight.
I an sorry! That is so frustrating! Thanks for sharing as it will make be more aware when I fly internationally next year! I wouldn’t think twice about powders! I winder if they allow toothpaste or is that considered a cream?
Hi, toothpaste is a liquid since it is creamy. I can't find it now, but London has a "tsa" type site. Maybe that could answer your questions. I am shocked at powders...@@skiyogagirl
Global Entry was the best purchase I ever made. I used it for the first time in Oct coming back from London. I got through customs so speedily, it was unbelievable.
Hey Laurie, had a horrible experience my past trip. I had a solid shampoo puck, made by "John Wayne Howitzer", that I thought would go thru TSA. However, because I used it earlier that day and was slightly soft and that it was 4oz, they deemed it a liquid and couldn't be carry-on; they would allow me to check the luggage. 😠😠😠😠😠😠Frustrating that TSA are so subjective despite very objective rules.
haha! Denver is our home airport and we are always amazed when we travel that other airports are so easy to navigate. They are supposed to have opened some new security lines earlier this month. We fly again on Monday so hopefully we'll get to experience it. Love that travel tip about the MPC app! Hopefully we can use that on our return. Always love your tips, Laurie!
We got approved very quickly for GE but it took us months to get our interview. They say you can do it when you come back into the country at certain airports but it seemed we arrived on weekends or after hours - ugh! Finally grabbed an appointment off the website and just brought my husband. They let us both in and we got our number pretty quick - just in time to try it out on our next trip. It is worth it! @@TravelTipsbyLaurie
This Christmas/New Years we flew Providence to Tampa on Breeze Airways Round Trip. It was so smooth. Both airports were a 'breeze'. We did not need to pull out electronics or liquids at either stop. I love that update and makes the screening process to much faster!
What I am interested in for the new year is whether American air traffic controllers are going to be getting more critical support and resources to keep them healthy and in turn, air travel safe!!
I'd like to see airlines have boarding time prominent throughout the booking process. it would make things easy. maybe even have recommended airport arrival time.
@TravelTipsbyLaurie and it would be pretty easy to put in the code to have the website show boarding and departure time when booking. And it should be fairly easy for airports to calculate an estimated time through security based on flight schedules, which the airline could link to. Our probable next trip will be to my MIL's, and i am thinking of flying out and renting a car instead of driving 2 days out and 2 days back.
The scanning pods sound great. But what if you're the unlucky one that has a Boarding Pass with SSSS? On our last two trips, my wife has had the dreaded SSSS on her pass. We can't figure out why, but certainly is getting to the point of harassment by TSA.
Happy New Year! Interesting thing I saw when traveling through Vienna Airport on Dec. 2, one of the duty free stores was turned into a Christmas Market stall with ornaments and everything. As of Dec. 2023, JFK airport Terminal 1, TSA Precheck line still requires you to remove liquids, electronics including cell phones and take off your shoes, belts. Also timed myself (solo traveler) with a family with a baby at JFK. They entered the regular TSA line at the same time as me entering the TSA Precheck one. We came out at the same time. Thank you for all your great videos and solid advice. Have used so many of your tips. 🎊✨🎉
YVR PreCheck in the USA departures terminal also requires liquids bags out of your carryon. And they sent compliant bags and compliant items to secondary for 2/4 of our party.
Global entry is a lifesaver flying back into the states in many airports. Especially Chicago. I would parrot most people - it is worth it over TSA, even if you aren’t flying internationally many times each year. However it is just a longer process to get it and less locations for the interview, compared to precheck, and it still might be backed up to get one. I had to choose a less convenient location to do mine since anything closer to me was booked out for months. Anecdotally (I haven’t gone through my first renewal yet), getting it renewed can be hopefully done online without an interview. So renewing it hopefully simpler. It’s just the initial application.
I think the issue in Europe, with the smaller liquids bag, is that they use the metric system. A litre is a little smaller than a quart. Great travel tips once again!
I think you mean the issue in the rest of the world- because it’s pretty much only the USA that doesn’t use metric any more (fyi, the difference is negligible)
My husband and I travelled to several Central European counties in December. The entire travel experience was seamless and comfortable. We have Global Entry but there wasn’t any other flights when we landed in Atlanta so there was no wait.
Thanks for all your great tips! We love to travel and this summer we are taking the whole family to Africa. We are super excited! I’m taking notes on all your great advice and suggestions.
Details From This Video and Packing List:
My jacket: amzn.to/3RYeTEa
My travel t-shirt: amzn.to/3NKbTZH (sized up)
Gray backpack 15.6: amzn.to/3Oe1mGV
Red backpack (also comes in black): bit.ly/NomadSlimBackpack
Husband's new backpack: amzn.to/3NLmbZz
Black striped backpack: amzn.to/3AUmMkX
New pink backpack: bit.ly/47xi7Eb
Army green backpack: bit.ly/3sOIjel
Really SMALL backpack: amzn.to/4aB6U7j
Packing cubes: amzn.to/3RF96SQ
My compression cubes: shoptripped.com/Laurie-Holiday23-Carryon-Green
Black purse: amzn.to/3QPX7Tx
Crossbody strap: amzn.to/45jbfJs
My Amazon page: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie
Other videos:
Best carry-on bags: bit.ly/2023BestCarryOnBags
Between Trips Tips: bit.ly/OrganizeTravelGear
Mask do not fog reading glasses: email lesoules@gmail.com and her name is Patty.
Free packing list: bit.ly/FreeUltimatePackingList
Helpful links:
www.aa.com/i18n/customer-service/support/customer-service-plan.jsp
nypost.com/2023/12/19/lifestyle/airport-security-will-soon-be-like-fast-food-kiosks-with-self-service-screening/
www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/expedited-airport-security/delta-digital-id
www.tsa.gov/digital-id
Thank You Beautiful ❣️❣️
We have a guest bedroom that we use as our travel room: photos from travels on walls, souvenirs and mementos on shelves, etc. But, more importantly, we use it for pre-staging packing for our travels. Several dresser drawers are filled with pre-packed packing cubes of clothes for various types of trips and climates: one drawer for Caribbean/hot weather trips and another for Nordic/winter travel. Another drawer is filled with travel toiletries, all fully organized and ready to be put into their 3-1-1 bags and hanging organizers.
What a fantastic idea for a guest room!
Lol, I'm such an avid traveler that I'm already a step ahead. I have the suitcases already packed with multiple types of destinations: city, beach, winter, spring, family etc. 😅 all I have left is find my travel deals$$$
What a great idea! Thank you so much for sharing it!
Am I a stone age person? I do all this spontaneously. I can survive a week or two outside my home without this or that if I forgot to pack something. Don't remember though if I ever had.
That is a real luxury to have these days! Lucky you!
Consider getting global entry even if you are only considering visiting a foreign country in the next five years. Global entry includes TSA pre check and is only $22 more than TSA pre check. Both programs are good for 5 years. I think $22 is worth the cost even if I use it only once. Those custom lines can be long.
I just got Global Entry . I thought it was primrily to expedite your re-entry to the US can you use it to skip TSA lanes when leaving the US?
@@flyingscot47When you book your flights input your Global Entry number (usually in the field asking for the Trusted Traveler number), and your boarding pass should have Pre-Check noted on it for flights out of US airports.
@@flyingscot47 yes, when checking into the airport on the US side you go through TSA so the TSA pre check works at that point. Make sure the airline knows you have TSA pre check so it gets printed in your boarding pass. There is usually a place when you buying your ticket to enter the number.
@ZzXZ636 unless you have global entry (something you apply for months in advance of you trip) you can’t go through global entry and would have to stand in the regular incoming passenger customer lines.
If the $22 difference between TSA precheck and Global Entry is a hardship economically, how can you afford to fly at all? Or pay for precheck in the first place?We travel internationally only once every other year now, but bypassing the ridiculously long reentry lines is worth the extra $22.
I am disabled…the TSA Cares program was an absolutely fabulous experience. I applied on line, got notice when they accepted it and a TSA person met me at the check in gate and helped me through all parts of security. We bypassed several long lines and she even helped me through the screening area. Huge!
In your experience, would you recommend this service for a quite large young autistic individual, to ease his fright and particularly sensory issues?
I could help an suris
ic adult very big
@@lillvill6403 Absolutely! When you apply you explain what the person needs and why, the only issue is if it’s available at the airports you are using. Go on line to TSA Cares and take a look. You won’t have to “prove” you need it, simply explain why and what you need. Good Luck it’s an awesome program!🥰
Oh wow. Thank you! I have to take my mom in law with Alzheimer's to Europe at the end of January. Any other tips? Thank you 😊
@@everhappy6312 It really was a great experience, interesting Canada doesn’t have the program but I found the airport really accessible. They even had golf carts to take you longer distances. Check at wherever you land they may have something there too. Good luck &safe travels!
Thank you for posting. How do I apply for TSA cares? Thank you again.
Aisle seat area ALWAYS smaller! If you are in an aisle seat, the under-seat area is smaller than the other two seats due to the Seat Frame. So if you love the aisle seat be prepared for a smaller area.
Ooh, I have never noticed. Thx
I noticed that, my son prefers the aisle seat because he likes to use the restroom a lot but doesn’t want to ask. His backpack barely fit on our last flight so I swapped bags with him.
I personally feel it's easier to have my ID and a paper boarding pass (yes, a paper boarding pass) in hand than to keep my phone out, in my hand, and unlocked through security and the boarding process. Easier to show and slip in a bag pocket after. And I travel a lot, and have tried many different scenarios.
I agree.
I’ve been traveling from a hot climate to Alaska over Xmas & into New Year with doggie 🐶 so I have a gallon baggie flattened & folded in half! This keeps my ID 🪪 & Dog health certificate & updated shot list & my boarding pass all together!
I agree. Too many issues with tech issues just as you need them. Paper is king.
I totally agree with a paper printed pass! It's quicker & ease of movement!
Yep!! Always paper!! I don’t have the best relationship w/ technology. Lol
So, let me get this straight: The airlines are losing more luggage than ever. The space under the seats is getting smaller. The gate agents are making more people check their carry-on bags (even if there is space). It's maddening. I'm leaving for a trip to Quinto, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands in two weeks, and it feels like it's me against the airlines.
I think I confused you; they are not losing more luggage; we as passengers just need to pack with the just in case for our absolute essentials. We always have options though.
Most of the gate agents are rude. DELTA (NYC-Orlando) rude flight crew.
Traveling is moving around outside your normal zone so always expect challenges, be prepared for disruptions in your plans, and accept the inconveniences. You’ll enjoy it more. I’ve got 20 countries down and counting! At least 5 more this year! 🎉
@@Renna-j I fly twice a month across the country. I rarely come across a rude gate or flight attendant. Some are more friendly than others, but in general, I find my politeness and smile is met equally by them. Kindness and understanding goes a long way. Many of these folks work very long hours and aren't paid for all these hours they are there. It's a screwed up system they work within.
Airlines will kill you😮
My solution to 'put your crossbody bag in your other bag' is to wear, as my normal flight outfit, a Scottevest black vest and red hoodie jacket - between them, I get over 30 pockets and can pretty much fit a personal item's worth of stuff on my body, and it doesn't count as part of my carryon.
I wore my vest to Australia and it was quite comfortable but my favorite part of wearing the vest was being able to keep anything valuable on me. I also had my passport and papers easily assessable.
Hi friend! May I ask what kind of jacket that you have with many pockets? I would like to have one! Thanks
SCOTTeVEST is a brand name. Google it. Hope that helps.
I got my hubby one of their jackets last year.
Laurie, your travel tips are the best! I viewed many of your videos before my recent trip. I was nervous bc I hadn't flown in almost 20 years and was flying by myself. Without your tips, I would have been unorganized, unprepared and much more nervous. Thanks Laurie and I look forward to more great videos in 2024!
You are so welcome!
My experience with liquids and security lines overall in the EU it’s always a mystery. Every time we travel we county hop and every airport is different. I just roll with it and go into the process with the mindset that I will have to do something different for that security line.
I was observed with being “prepared “ but it is impossible to do that when all the airports have their own way of doing things including in the US.
My best live hack is
Roll with it and be prepared to accommodate and don’t get ticked off at the agents that are just doing their job,
It’s nothing personal
Happy new year 🥳
Inconsistent just like the US
Please don't order things with the intention of returning them. Just a heads-up but a vast majority of the time things that are returned to Amazon end up in landfills. Not saying to never return a defective item, just saying to be conscious of what those free-return policies actually mean. Otherwise great video! 😊
amazon does sell the items as used.
Thanks💙
@Qbertbird is correct. Amazon re stocks and resales SOME items but the majority goes right to landfills.
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie
@Qbertbird You're way too nice.
There are many legitimate reasons for returning items:
- Defective
- Incorrectly/dishonestly described
- Incorrectly sized
This is not one of those legitimate reasons. Not even close. And the environmental issues are not the biggest part of the problem. Somebody has to pay for those bags, so either the seller loses the money or the price goes up for the rest of us. To do this intentionally is tantamount to fraud/theft. How is it possible that this woman doesn't understand this ... or does she just not give a damn?
And this isn't even some fifteen year old jerk TikTok kid, this is a middle aged woman behaving this way. Where do arrogant, !diot azzholes like this come from? Seriously, how does this woman live to this age and still think this is acceptable behavior? It's appalling.
@@susangilliam6400
60% of all items sold and 40% of dollar value sold on Amazon are from third party sellers.
They aren't there to check and repackage the item ... it goes to either the returns "buy by the bin" warehouse or to the landfill ... and the seller has to eat the loss or raise prices to cover it.
global entry saved us from missing our flight in Atlanta-- International flights do not leave on time-- ours was 1:10 hours late in leaving Amsterdan. It took us 7-10 minutes to clear customs with global entry versus 1.5 - 2 hours through regular customs.. Delta had even sent me a voucher for a free hotel stay and a meal voucher because of the late arrival, but we didn't need them
I think you are referring to the Immigration line, not Customs.
Not true for all flights or airlines. I took two international flights round trip to Japan. They both left on time. I actually ended up having to rebook one flight due to the amount of time it took to get through customs and immigration. I have global entry...the line was STILL long. It was crazy.
Thank you for your great tips. I actually also use them for domestic travel in our car! I admit I get a charge out of having one carryon bag, one personal bag and one crossbody bag. I can wheel my own bag to our room while my husband juggles several suitcases, a camera bag and a few miscellaneous brief cases for even the simplest of trips. I still have everything I need for any occasion on the trip. (I only read electronic books and magazines when we travel.) it is great to feel efficient and independent when you are 76!
You GO girl. We need to hang onto that independence as long as possible.
I’m envious of your ability to par down to essentials that work for you. I find I can par down, a bit, but the actual suitcase is heavier, so is my carry on. So even though I can carry it all myself, it wears me out.
Good for you!
Do your medications need to be in their original prescription bottles or can they be put in daily pill containers
I noticed that too. I had to put my crossbody into my carry on luggage. Pulled it out as soon as we boarded. LOL
Lol.....this is just what I mentioned to Laurie in a previous video earlier today..... I'll put my sling bag in my carry-on 🤷🏾♀️
Global entry is worth it for me even if flying internationally once a year. It includes TSA pre check and makes getting through customs SO much easier and several major credit cards reimburse the cost, so it’s essentially free.
Agreed. I only fly a few times year and so far have only flown domestically but it was 100% worth it.
Tell me more about this!
@@simonewilliamson3218 You have to apply for a global entry card like you would a passport, then an appointment will be made for you to at the closest office…usually at a entry point or international airport. If you have a major credit card, like an american express or a travel reward card, many have a policy to reimburse you for the fee. Once you have the Global Entry, it’s a whiz to go through customs in a separate lane and you get TSA pre check with it, so going through security at the domestic airports is a lot easier.
As always, terrific video and information, Laurie. I really welcome and appreciate being kept up-to-date.
Adding to something I posted awhile ago about traveling anywhere with prescription controlled substances: the last time I flew, TSA DID indeed double check me for that; on the way to my destination, and on the way home again. It cannot be stressed strongly enough, prescription pain meds (narcotics) MUST be kept in the bottle they're prescribed in. Not doing so is playing Russian Roulette.
Happy New Year to you and yours, and my fellow subs here 🎇🎊🎉
Thank you Donna! It would be awful to not have required meds.
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Absolutely. I'm extremely careful. And even though there was extra screening, because of that, all went well.
Global Entry is so forth it for my husband and I. We travel internationally about every 3 mos and the line for Global Entry was just 2 people ahead of us on Dec 15th. Also the TSA pre check is a great bonus when traveling in the US. Worth every penny!
Super informative video, thanks! Minor but important correction - global entry can be used in other countries if they have an agreement with the U.S. to clear customs in that country. For example, we used the Global Entry kiosk in the Dublin Ireland airport and the entire process took less than two minutes to clear customs for our return to the U.S. I think the same was true for a Calgary Canada trip.
Oh wow!
Global Entry is designed to speed up clearing "Immigration" not Customs.
I have organized between trips! I actually have an entire walk-in closet dedicated to luggage, travel clothes and travel supplies. :)
I need that!
I also set aside clothing for travel that is very light and doesn't wrinkle
In my flying through Nashville and Chicago airports, there was live music: singer/songwriter, musicians! Enjoyed the treat between flights!
So fun to see you in the Brussels airport lounge!! I started using the Tom Bihn 3D organizer cube for my liquids (1 liter size, so it is slightly smaller than our one quart ziplock bags) and have successfully transited through Heathrow WITHOUT having to transfer my items to their flimsy little zip bags. I even had one officer tell me it was "perfect"😊
Sharon!!!! Now getting through Heathrow is an accomplishment. I’ll look up that bag. I could not have done it with liquid shampoo.
I am confused as a quart is 32 fl. oz. and a liter is 33.81 fl. ounces, so the liter size should be larger.
@@gingereaves4097 You are so right, I should’ve known that🙄.
I am confused too! But their bags seem smaller. @@gingereaves4097
I think Global Entry is worth it even if you fly internationally once a year. It’s worth the $20 to speed through lines (if you fly once a year), especially if you have connections. And you’re right re Denver. I fly there once a year and am so thankful I have the included TSA pre check.
am I missing something? Global Entry for $20 ???? I paid $100
@@jeanwoodhouse6456 Sorry. If one were to fly once a year over five years, the cost would be $20/year. I paid $100, as well, but was later reimbursed through my credit card.
@@jeanwoodhouse6456Global Entry is $100....TSA Pre-check alone is $75... So for $25 more, you get a huge benefit if you fly international.... Or you could say that you get all the benefits of TSA pre-check in the States and you get the benefit of cruising thru customs when you come home from an international flight....
Potato/tomato---potah-to/tomah-to 🤣
The other issue with Global Entry is that you can only obtain it at certain larger airports. There is only one available airport in my state (PDX in Oregon); whereas Precheck is available at many smaller, local airports. Returning to the US through Dallas from Europe this past summer, customs clearance was only a few minutes slower using the My Passport app than my friends who had Global Entry.
Atlanta pre check is almost as slow as general screen, sometimes slower
Equating TSA self scan to grocery store self checkout does not really give me confidence. Self checkout has become a good way to get accused of/ arrested for theft, particularly with certain retailers.
One of my local grocery stores just took theirs out so to theft. They'd lost $1M in a quarter last year.
Just returned from London and Paris - had a side trip to Calais and Lille due to the Eurostar tunnel strike. Was so happy for all the time I've spent watching your videos, I felt so much more comfortable with all processes. My biggest take? US TSA and CUSTOMS could take some training from Heathrow. I felt their folks were patient and seemed to view their job to be HELPFUL. I observed an encounter in DFW in which the TSA guy needed a break, a day off, extra training - not sure, but he was screaming instructions that very few people understood. So he would just scream the same thing more loudly!
And thank you for all of your tips! I've actually taken notes and removed/repacked what I did and did not like!
Had similar experience on the way back from Barcelona this past June, had layover in Philadelphia and TSA agent kept yelling the rules at us over and over like we were idiots in a prison. Just the worst!
Another vote for Heathrow. I was very impressed with the friendly, calm, courteous service this summer.
YES!
Was SCREAMED at by TSA in Seattle. He behaved like the doorman in the Wizard of Oz. But then what can be expected in rude, constantly under construction SeaTac. Tacky place
I have a tip for older travelers who haven't traveled in awhile. If you've developed mobility issues, try to find out if your flight will embark or disembark via portable stairs. My husband and I were caught off-guard when an airplane in Vietnam landed away from the terminal. I'd just had a cortisone injection in one knee and my husband has heart disease. In theory, we could have managed the steps going down, but it would have been tough with our carry-on luggage. So, that's how we found out how people who need wheelchairs get off the plane. Our next flight on Vietnam Airlines had a gate change from an upper to lower level in the airport. We should have considered that stairs were in our future, but we'd done so much traveling we were exhausted. We held the flight up for 15 minutes due to our last minute request for the elevator. It was pretty embarrassing. The lovely gate agent suggested very kindly that we should have made the request at check-in, but the gate change came after check-in. I have to say that the Vietnam Airline personnel were very kind and supportive. I checked my carryon bag on the flights back to the U.S. Just a word of caution for those getting up in years. Safe travels.
Oh how awful! That is a great tip I will share from now on.
Thank you from two NZ seniors who have used all you tips and completed a 7 week tour using carry-on bags & 20L day back packs and compression cubes, from Hawaii - Alaska - Vancouver - Banff - Washington DC - North Carolina & Houston. Everything went very well and we will use this same packing process next year when travelling in Europe. Raelene
I am seriously in shock! Way to go and thanks for the update. I bet it was all just beautiful!
Laurie - My husband and I would love to do the Christmas markets in Europe next year. Any chance you’d make a video sharing your travel tips surrounding your experiences from your recent trip? (Pretty please! ❤) Happy 2024 and thank you for your excellent content!
Hi, I do have one that should pop up. Mainly I was thinking I was going just to see them, but the rest of the day you can take a tour or find a cool place to eat. I wish I had planned that. Here it is: bit.ly/PackForChristmasMarket
I came back from Italy yesterday and landed at 2:53pm at DFW and custom border line was mile and half, so went all the way a mile back to get our space to line up and walk a mile to have our customs clearance, it took 25 minutes!!
I love your travel tips and it helps me a lot ❤
We flew through Frankfurt international airport on our way to Prague during Thanksgiving. Frankfurt airport was a nightmare. In order to make our connecting flight they required us to get on a shuttle to the other terminal. Unfortunately, the wait for the shuttle was over 45 minutes. Then we had to go through customs where only three agents were working. Our wait there was over an hour. We missed our connecting flight to Prague. I would advise staying away from the Frankfurt airport if at all possible. On our flight home, we connected through Munich, which was better. My favorite place to catch connecting flights to and from Europe is Iceland, if at all possible. Not busy at all and the staff are super friendly.
Frankfurt is a nightmare.
Frankfurt and Lufthansa are both nightmares. Both had rude employees.
Frankfurt is terrible, Lufthansa staff are consistently snippy, even with each other! Munich is laid out a bit better, but yeah, Lufthansa is annoying.
Sometimes you have to go with what the airline offers- no choice. We always make sure to have 90+ minutes when connecting - no matter where- because you cannot predict what is happening at any given airport
@@elizabethk9656 it wasn’t the airline. It was the airport. We do the same but this took over two hours, which is ridiculous. We travel a good bit and Frankfurt International Airport is the only place we’ve ever had a problem like this.
Mobile Passport vs Global Entry. On a recent international trip landing in Boston, Regular passport lines were very long, Global entry lines were not too long, but there were lines. Mobile passport had NO LINE. I had downloaded the Mobile Passport app ahead of time and went to that lane instead of global entry.
Unfortunately Mobile Passport is not accepted at all US airports. Detroit does not accept it.
I have not heard that.
Ya never know how long the customs lines will be.
Im definitely doing this next time I return from Zurich! The line at Newark took 2.5 hours last time 🫠
@@monicabarnett9231 Newark is on the list.
Happy new year! And yes, the personal item space under the seat varies a lot. That is why my personal item is either a backpack or duffel that can be squished.
Squished!
My husband and I both bought a Lovelock backpack. No problem flying all over Europe with them. We love them.
where is lovelock bag? Will this work on united flights within the united states. My first time traveling and this is so much to take in! I have noticed that united has restrictions for personal bags that are 9 inch x 17x 10
Thanks for the new tips. We've done carry on for the last 3 trips and I loved feeling secure that I had everything with me. However, lifting the carry on into the overhead bin is such a challenge. So heavy. I think we may go back to checking a bag and hope it doesn't get lost. Regarding your cross body purse problem, our last flight on Alaskan air, they did not ask me to remove my fannie pack. You are right about some airlines have agents who are very picky. I do have a Scotty vest with 42 pockets that holds a lot, but it makes me hot on the plane.
That does hold a lot! Do the pockets zip? Yes I would check one. Hmmm I’ll think.
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Yes, the vests hold a lot, they zip, and can get a bit heavy, but so nice to just slip what you need at your seat in the various pockets. You have to memorize which pockets you use for what. Google Scottevest. I got a woman's black vest with 42 pockets. I originally got it for going to Europe since their carry on limits can be strict.
You have not lived until you’ve had your mammaries frisked by TSA SeaTac.
@@mademsoisellerhapsody
Blaaaaaaah!
Laurie,This video is right on and so helpful. I'm a very experienced domestic & international traveler. Two things that you mentioned that are SO important, especially flying internationally, is to make sure you only have a carry on and personal bag to take in the cabin with you --if you also have a cross-body bag, make sure it fits into your person bag and that it has your essential items in it (meds, etc). In London, I was the 3rd person to board and they forced me to check in my small carry-on but let others behind me with much bigger carry-ons take them in the cabin. Made no sense! Also, the Baggallini "Modern Everywhere Laptop Backpack"(personal bag) is beyond compare.
I looked at that backpack… it’s so cute, but I feel like I wouldn’t be able to fit all of my items. When we travel internationally, I always check a suitcase then my backpack has to have a compression cube with clothing in case luggage is delayed/lost. Then I have medications, backup scrip eyeglasses, toiletries, laptops and tablets with charging stuff, snacks, and large scarf for extra warmth, maybe I’m packing wrong? So frustrating
@@elizabethk9656 The Baggallini "Modern Everywhere Laptop Backpack" would hold everything you mentioned but not more than one laptop/tablet. It sounds like you're using your backpack as a "carry-on" and not a "personal bag," which is fine, but then, yes, you would need a larger backpack.
Laurie, I live in Vegas and you are better informed than those of us that live here!😂. Just finished with a trip to Italy. The Rome airport did not have to remove liquids, shoes or anything ! They just yelled at me for trying to do those things! We went through customs at Denver. I've neve been so happy to have Global Entry. The price was worth it even if that's the only overseas trip I take in the next 5 years!🎉Happy New Year🎉
My brother lives there and couldn’t find it.
@@TravelTipsbyLaurie LOL
I recently traveled through Paris and, for the first time, I also saw several signs about only 2 items. At the gate, they were making people either check or combine other items. It's just easier to follow the rules from the beginning than at the gate.
Great tips. A trip last summer I didn't realize how small the overhead bin space would be on smaller planes (basic logic forgotten) but because I was early onto the plane was able to get everything stowed. Witnessing others needing to gate-check bags, I remembered on the way back to put an AirTag from my keyring into my larger bag in case it had to get checked, which it did. Since it was gate-checked, there was a place to retrieve once landed (not at baggage claim) so I knew the risk of losing the luggage would be low, but it gave me peace of mind -- if you know where your luggage is, and it won't make your destination, at least you know rather than worry about it and can plan accordingly (hello, shopping!). As soon as I got home, I got another 4-pack of AirTags, and now everything is tracked. Maybe a bit much, but it's a simple and effective way to know where your stuff is.
It sounds like alot to some people, but I truly believe that you learn by experience. And that helped you think about that when it happened. Love it and thanks for sharing.
The last time I was on a small plane, it was open season on bin space and the person next to me had three bags, one so large he could have packed a family member inside. Unsure who was on the gate, but they really were not looking!
Not too much, I'd say. I used to use Tiles but prefer Airtags now. It saved me a couple of years ago. I flew Lufthansa from Frankfurt to Chicago but my bag went to Munich. Lufthansa was great and asked me for a detailed description of the bag and anything else I could tell them. It was my favorite blue Eagle Creek bag so that was easy. And with the tag, I was able to locate the bag via the "Find My" app to the exact terminal in Munich. Lufthansa delivered my bag to my door the next day.
@@TheScratchingKiwihappens in Vegas all of the time. Airline employees see it, and couldn't care less.
I just got my 3rd Global Entry card this last summer. My wife who came here last fall as an immigrant/green card last summer got her GE in September. I’ve always felt it’s worth the $100. We fly trans Atlantic 2x per year and to Mexico 4-6 times plus domestic. Worth every penny
I flew out of Nashville, and TSA just scanned my driver's license. My ticket comes up on the monitor. One of my favorites this year is that AA runs a bus from Atlantic City to Philadelphia with TSA check in the smaller airport. It's so nice and saves time.
That is super convenient! In Knoxville they waved a blue light over the tickets
I have been flying out of Columbus OH and Ft Myers Fl frequently and both locations scan your license only…except when boarding, then you just need your ticket on your phone. If I’m not checking a bag, I go straight to security and skip the front desk.
Great video! So comprehensive and relevent. You are the queen of travel planning. Your current personal anecdotes help as well. You save us alot of grief to know before we go.
Wow, lots of info in this one! I wish more airports would have the rooms that you can rent for a few hours - and have better hours. Here, while our flights usually leave for the south at 6 a.m., that means we have to go through security no later than 3:15, the wee hours of the morning. People from outside of the city always get their ride to the airport the night prior and then have to sit there for 5 or more hours waiting. Having those little rooms would mean that they could catch a few hours of sleep! Thanks for all of your videos and Happy New Year to you and yours, Laurie!
Yes @minutesuites is my favorite here in some states
Love your travel tips!! This will be the first time we've flown in over 13 years!! I pray everyone is kind and understanding while we get our "feet wet" once again with traveling :)
Hi Anne, just arrive 2 hours before the boarding time so you do not feel rushed. When you are in a hurry, that is when we forget or lose items. This may help: bit.ly/HowToTSALine
I am so glad I found you. We do not fly frequently and watching your channel has really lessened my anxiety over what to take with me and how to pack. Happy New Year.
I am so glad!!
The picture of your son always cracks me up. So classic of teenage boys.
Global entry is only 15.00 more than just TSA pre check… and lasts 5 years. Definitely worth it!
What if you already have TSA pre-check, do you have to start the process all over again to get Global Entry?
Thank you, Laurie! Days before an international trip, we learned the Delta 767 under seat area was now only 10x12x9”. This required me to purchase a different bag and a lot of downsizing.
I really like printing paper boarding passes and putting them in the ID page of my passport. it's just so much easier than electronic documents.
and I'm putting my money on the self service TSA checkpoints having slower passenger throughput than the staffed checkpoints.
I intend to start collecting all the "uncheckables" in one of our two carryon bags, so one can be checked. we have too much to put in a personal item bag; and we prefer to check the bulky stuff, and not carry a personal item bag.
Smart ideas.
We’ve had global entry for 10+ years…love it. May only use it a couple of times a year but worth it to us.
Laurie, thank you so much for all the updates in traveling through the airports. It helps me to prepare for my 2024 travel plans.
Laurie, lots of good tips. I shouted Denver before you said it! I can’t carry much so just researched the smallest wheeled under seater and found a London Fog 15 by 13 by 7, received it and am anxious to test it.
Another flying issue is when airline gives a short layover. I flew Charlotte to LA arriving 9:40 am with next flight leaving 10:15! Of course I missed it. AA had NO another flights to Sacramento that day. I was supposed to be in Sac before noon but spent the day traveling to Dallas then Sacramento!
But I had great vacation so just went with the flow. Happy New Year to you!
Yes, we think their system should not even show flights that take off within an hour of your flight landing.
RE: liquids, many airports in Europe (and most in Asia /Middle East) do not require to take out liquids or fit them in a small plastic bag any more. Out of about 50 segments last year, I only had to take out my liquids in LHR.
And sometimes they require them to be taken out then the next time you go through there three weeks later, you’re treated like a criminal because you don’t….. looking at you, Bangkok lol
Traveled to Portugal this year and used Global Entry for the first time. It was worth every penny. We had to connect in Newark 😱 on return to Houston. We flew through a very long line!!
Oh wow! Yes I’ve heard only good things about global entry.
The Vegas concept is intriguing. Flying is so invasive and lacking dignity these days, so it's great to see a change perhaps in the right direction to fix that.
We have found that Global Entry has saved us from missing our connecting flights multiple times, since it great expedites the re-entry process in the U.S.!
For those of us on Canadian border states, NEXUS includes TSA Precheck and Global Entry and it's less expensive than doing Global Entry on its own. BUT! You have to get it at a NEXUS office (usually at Boarder Control). We couldn't get it when we did Global Entry because the NEXUS offices were closed due to Covid, but they are all open now.
Thank you! Your tips helped me when prepping for and during a 3 -week trip to France in November. I hadn't been to Europe in 40+ years, but the travel was easy!
Remember the European Union has its own airplane rules. They require the airline to do certain things for a passenger if the flight is delayed or canceled. Right before the pandemic - so a few years ago - our flight from Belgium to Poland was cancelled due to a broken part they could not replace. My husband tweeted it and a number of European lawyers contacted us. They pursued this for us and a couple of months later a couple of hundred Euros was deposited into our account. We were very wary of this but researched it. Just remember the rules in Europe for airlines are better for passengers.
Anyone flying a European airline to/from Europe should know the ins and outs of EU261. Our family of 4 were downgraded two fare classes (equipment change) outbound and return. Spent 5 minutes of mouse clicks filing our EU261 claim with that airline on our return and in less than a week had a four-figure refund. Sweet!
Hi Laurie, I love, LOVE your videos and this one is is packed with info that will come in handy for 2024. Thanks for the infor regarding the Schengen visas. I'm glad w can wait another year.
The following is a brief description of our latest trip from mid-December to this week
We just got back from an extended (3.5 week) trip visiting family and friends. We had to use our Aer Lingus vouchers from 2020 so the first leg of our trip was through Dublin. Fortunately, leaving Chicago O'Hare (ORD) we could fly out of the new International Terminal (#5) instead of Terminal #1 or #2. TSA Pre-check which makes things quick and well worth it for my husband and I. We travel internationally 2-3 times a year.
Dublin airport is larger than Shannon but signage was good and getting around was easy though you have to take a bus to the car rental area. Renting a car in Ireland can be expensive. Take out all the insurance you can. It's worth it because if you've never driven on the left side of the road, it can be dangerous too. There are multiples round-abouts and seriously narrow roads and bridges. Your regular insurance will not cover you. Having a good navigator in the passanger seat and GPS on your phone is imperative. We spent a week touring and visiting family.
Our next leg of the trip was to Luxembourg via Luxair. Security out of Dublin is like most EU airports. We have to take out computers, remove shoes, and have a separate liquids bag (yes, a tad smaller than US qt-size bags which many airlines will provide prior to security). I was also carrying a lot of chargers, different adaptors, battery packs and cords in a small zippered bag in my carry-on. I got stopped because security couldn't make out what the blocks of heavy things were. Next time, they told me, pull that bag out and place it next to my liquids bag on the tray. I certainly will. I hate getting stopped.
The Luxair plane to Luxembourg was small and crowded--no room for underseat luggage and the sandwiches were awful. Since the flight is only 2 hours, it didn't prove difficult. Luxembourg airport was so easy to get through. It's small, security is quick, and the airport is conveniently close to the German border where our son's family lives. After a few weeks with family celebrating Christmas and News Years, we had to head home.
We flew out of Luxembourg via Luxair again and back to Dublin. Waiting at the gate in Luxembourg was not so very nice. Once past security, there are no restaurants, just rows of seats crowded by the gates and a snack bar that sold only cold sandwiches (fortunately, yes, beer and wine). This flight, again a short 2 hours, was packed with teenagers going on a school trip to Dublin. Cold sandwiches were horrible. but the alcohol was plentiful. (Were we the only adults on board?) The kids were hilarious, reminding me of our granddaughters, and when we landed, they cheered and clapped. It was sweet.
Since Luxair only flies to Dublin 3-4 times a week, we had to spend one more night with friends in the the city.
The final leg of our trip was with Aer Lingus again but Business class this time (had to use up those vouchers). It was wonderful!! First of all there is a Customs Clearance (past the Duty-Free) for flights to the US in Dublin! Having Global entry, we just flew through! Security was quick and, for some reason, we didn't have to remove our shoes or take out computers.?! That's good but it can be confusing. I'm just always prepared for either contingency. Past security and Customs was the wonderful Aer Lingus lounge,. Plenty of comfortable seats, great food, wonderful views of the Wickow Mountains, specifically Sugar Loaf Mountain and we were close to the gate to make it easy to board when our flight was announced.
Once we got to Chicago O'Hare, (landing at Terminal #5) we didn't have to go through the long Customs at all. Very good news, but for some unknown reason, we had to pick up our bags at Carousel #12. Never been to Terminal #5? Well, Carousel #12 is way, WAY, far away from all the other carousels, past the McDonalds and tucked into a corner near the security offices for Global Entry. The room is small, tight, and airless. Ugh! Despite that and the snow coming down, it's always good to be home.
Great video!! I have Global Entry and my experience boarding through customs in Los Angeles CA and San Diego was easy and fast. Also, using Global Entry in the US with any airline ticket you purchase online automatically gives TSA Pre-check. Make sure with the airline before you even get to the airport that your TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry Number is on your reservation/ticket. You can check this also when you check online the TSA Pre-Check will be above the bar code on your boarding pass.
yes. America Airlines has been negligent om putting my TSA precheck on ticket...if at the counter..check before you walk away or you're back in a line...I wasn't happy as they didn't correct it...I almost become a Karen...in this case who has to make this right??? I paid for this convenience!!
It happened to me with Southwest Airlines and now I check to make sure my Global Entry is on my reservation/ticket
Yes mine did not print in Denver so I had to get it fixed after nearly having a panic attack😂
I made sure to update my Delta app w/the Global Entry number, probably within minutes of getting my approval. But I did check the printed boarding pass just to make sure!
I traveled to the UK in 2022 and had to put liquids in a literal zip top baggie...my usual clear "tea approved" bag was unacceptable. So, now I keep liquids in the smaller ziplock baggie for international flights. Thank you for the tips and tricks.
I flew through Amsterdam this past summer and they let a lady with a half finished, full size soda bottle through security. She was behind me in line and said "oh I need to toss this" and security told her it was ok she could bring it. I was surprised! Also there was hardly any wait time, everything flowed very smoothly.
Amsterdam has the new scanners so there is no limit on liquids
Oh wow!
Maybe they saw her drink from it so they knew it was safe lol!
Thanks for sharing your experience. One other thing to note at Washington Dulles we had a flight departing at 6:00 a.m.
Although we have TSA pre-check, the pre-check people do not get there until 5:45 a.m. As a result we had to take our shoes off and pull out the liquids bag.
Fortunately, I was prepared but I’m sure it took a lot of people by surprise.
Oh my word! I would think 5 am but wow.
Got my MPC app during my recent London trip and it did help when returning to Dallas. (As for masks - never again!) Your advice is always so helpful.
I hear ya.
This pilot wife approves of your video! 😁 Great job!
Hey friend!
Thank you so much for your informative videos! I only fly once a year and your videos help me immensely. I flew on United and Alaskan airlines through the Seattle, Houston, and Atlanta airports. United under seat carry on had plenty of room for my bag; however, there were no charging port for my cell phone. I did pack a charging bank so no big deal. I had the opposite experience with Alaskan. I did rent a car with Avis at the Atlanta airport. Great customer service. I prepaid for a mystery car and it was an electric car. I refused since I was driving to Panama City, FL. Did not know about the status of charging stations in GA, AL, and FL, limitations of the car in the cold (ATL was in the high 30’s), and the range of the car. I rented a car with previous car body damage and a tire with a slow leak. When I returned the car at the customer service desk, the nice agent said there was only electric cars left to the people who were about the rent a car. At least I had a choice. Overall, my airport, airplane, and car rental experiences were positive, because I made sure I left plenty of time for any possible problems. Again, thank you for making high quality videos. 🙏
Oh wow!! Can you imagine trying to find a charger between ATL and Panama City?!
Denver International has those very long security lines mostly around holiday weekends. They are also having construction going on with occasional security checkpoint closures. When we flew in late September ‘23 the lines looked a bit long, but moved pretty quickly. As you said, Laurie, leaving early in the day really helps!
Seattle Airport (SEA) has "Spot Saver" which allows you to reserve an appointment for security. You go into a special line (much like PreCheck) which bypasses the regular lines. Also, if you have a first class ticket, you usually are allowed to go into that special line as well.
YVR (Vancouver, Canada) also has that system where you can reserve a time to go through security.
Going on our first cruise with a GSD SD.. it was ALOT of work to get him cleared to go! It's definitely more work than it's worth to bring a dog that isn't NEEDED!
Hope you enjoyed flying in and out of Knoxville, my home airport. Since it's a small airport, I frequently have to fly on small planes to larger cities with large planes. On small planes I sometimes have to gate check my carry-on bag which I use for my photo gear. My gear travels in shoulder bags or a backpack inside a hard sided roller bag. This way my gear is protected, I have bags to carry and work out of when I get to my destination, and a regular roller suitcase doesn't draw attention. Just thought I'd mention it in case others have gear that they travel with.
Thank you so much!
Thank you for the reminder to be inside the airport 2 hours before boarding! This one always trips me up, and I have been flying comfort plus too, which I always forget boards earlier...
I recently went to England and didn’t have to show my passport at Heathrow’s immigration. They had face recognition. It was so quick and easy!
Oh wow! Which airline? 🙌🏻
I had a very limited personal item size for my Australia trip so I got a Fjallraven Kanken backpack. It is a smaller backpack, but opens like a suitcase so you can fit more into it. I would not use it for every trip but it got the job done for meeting the Qantas size regulations. I was able to tuck my Travelon crossbody into the backpack. Learning how to pack light is an art. Lots of stuff I never used.
Don't you have issues with the weight of Fjallraven items? With a 7kg carry on + personal item limit, the canvas must be really heavy,.
@@TheScratchingKiwi No, the backpack is light and the straps seem to balance it well.
Yay thanks for sharing!
Regarding carrying liquids overseas. I don’t usually fill my quart bag all the way. I do check luggage and some of my liquids get checked. One way to cut down on liquids is to buy solid shampoo and conditioner. I have colored hair and use products from Humbly. They smell great. You need a lot less of them and they can be eliminated from your bag of liquids. There are other vendors of solid shampoo.
I just came back from Ireland twice and both my carry-ons were quite large because I noticed that everyone else’s were large. The person next to me brought on a fold up wheelchair four carry-on bags and a computer. So I think it varies. This was Delta by the way
If they were a wheelchair user then they may have also had other medical devices. Medical devices are not counted against your carry on/personal bag count. The caveat is don't mingle non medical items in with the medical items because then the airline can decline your exemption.
Laurie!! Received my passport yesterday!! Excited! I always think of you when there is a movement toward my journey to England. I LOVE, LOVE the little pill bags; my sister saw them and also ordered some for our trip to the beach this week. And, the little bottles, the tiny ones look like jars ?? , and fit on top of each other?? , which hold creams...I got a huge amount of lotion in those tiny containers. You are a Doll. Joey
Thanks again! So excited for your trip!
Such good information, Laurie! I always take notes. You work so hard to keep us updated. Thank you! Happy New Year!
Happy new year!
Trouble in Heathrow in June. Smaller liquids container. I lost some stuff. Happy new year, MUCH LOVE
Great video, incredibly informative and useful! Thanks Laurie! Happy New Year.
Those are my main goals with these travel tips!
I did fly delta from Detroit. No Id needed. Just boarding pass on my phone. Yes I have precheck too. It was great. Loved it
I’m a Delta gal so I can’t wait to test drive it @JFK!
Love your channel. Just got back from Europe; flew American and British Airlines. Heathrow security requires that you repack " liquids" and "creams" in their plastic bags and that included powders (as in powdered makeup items). I had to toss several pricey makeup items to fit all my liquid plus powder items into the bag. Their bags are flimsier than the quart bag I use so it took a while for me to organize my items so they wouldn't tear the bag. Is this only at Heathrow? Plus, the space for under-the-seat carry-on items on the British Airlines plane was smaller and varied depending on where you sat... even in Priority. That is, my boyfriend had twice as much room than I did under the seat in front of him and that space seemed tight.
Oh how horrible! I cannot believe they added powdered items.
Heathrow is strict. I got my bag rescanned and opened because of a lip gloss!!
I an sorry! That is so frustrating! Thanks for sharing as it will make be more aware when I fly internationally next year! I wouldn’t think twice about powders! I winder if they allow toothpaste or is that considered a cream?
Hi, toothpaste is a liquid since it is creamy. I can't find it now, but London has a "tsa" type site. Maybe that could answer your questions. I am shocked at powders...@@skiyogagirl
Toronto (Pearson International) airport has horrific lines too.
Totally agree😆always
Horrible and has gotten worse, unfortunately
Global Entry was the best purchase I ever made. I used it for the first time in Oct coming back from London. I got through customs so speedily, it was unbelievable.
Hey Laurie, had a horrible experience my past trip. I had a solid shampoo puck, made by "John Wayne Howitzer", that I thought would go thru TSA. However, because I used it earlier that day and was slightly soft and that it was 4oz, they deemed it a liquid and couldn't be carry-on; they would allow me to check the luggage. 😠😠😠😠😠😠Frustrating that TSA are so subjective despite very objective rules.
OH NO! Yes, it has to be absolutely solid. Ugh. So sorry
haha! Denver is our home airport and we are always amazed when we travel that other airports are so easy to navigate. They are supposed to have opened some new security lines earlier this month. We fly again on Monday so hopefully we'll get to experience it. Love that travel tip about the MPC app! Hopefully we can use that on our return. Always love your tips, Laurie!
I just signed up for Global Entry.
We got approved very quickly for GE but it took us months to get our interview. They say you can do it when you come back into the country at certain airports but it seemed we arrived on weekends or after hours - ugh! Finally grabbed an appointment off the website and just brought my husband. They let us both in and we got our number pretty quick - just in time to try it out on our next trip. It is worth it! @@TravelTipsbyLaurie
I nick an extra few ziplock bags every time I am at Heathrow 😂 Masks are good for cold weather so I carry a couple of them in my bag.
This Christmas/New Years we flew Providence to Tampa on Breeze Airways Round Trip. It was so smooth. Both airports were a 'breeze'. We did not need to pull out electronics or liquids at either stop. I love that update and makes the screening process to much faster!
Love it when that’s the case in airports.
What I am interested in for the new year is whether American air traffic controllers are going to be getting more critical support and resources to keep them healthy and in turn, air travel safe!!
The staff shortage is definitely a significant issue. @ZzXZ636
They are crucial to smooth and safe flying.
Long TSA lines are definitely in MCO. Orlando. I have Pre check thank goodness. Love your tips. Thanks
I'd like to see airlines have boarding time prominent throughout the booking process. it would make things easy. maybe even have recommended airport arrival time.
I agree-new travelers do not notice that time...or that most close the door before the departure time.
@TravelTipsbyLaurie and it would be pretty easy to put in the code to have the website show boarding and departure time when booking. And it should be fairly easy for airports to calculate an estimated time through security based on flight schedules, which the airline could link to.
Our probable next trip will be to my MIL's, and i am thinking of flying out and renting a car instead of driving 2 days out and 2 days back.
We have global entry and love it. Treating yourself to Business Class or First Class is always a treat. We've done it and plan on doing it more often.
I really should get it.
The scanning pods sound great. But what if you're the unlucky one that has a Boarding Pass with SSSS? On our last two trips, my wife has had the dreaded SSSS on her pass. We can't figure out why, but certainly is getting to the point of harassment by TSA.
Hi, not sure why either.
Happy New Year! Interesting thing I saw when traveling through Vienna Airport on Dec. 2, one of the duty free stores was turned into a Christmas Market stall with ornaments and everything. As of Dec. 2023, JFK airport Terminal 1, TSA Precheck line still requires you to remove liquids, electronics including cell phones and take off your shoes, belts. Also timed myself (solo traveler) with a family with a baby at JFK. They entered the regular TSA line at the same time as me entering the TSA Precheck one. We came out at the same time. Thank you for all your great videos and solid advice. Have used so many of your tips. 🎊✨🎉
YVR PreCheck in the USA departures terminal also requires liquids bags out of your carryon. And they sent compliant bags and compliant items to secondary for 2/4 of our party.
Global entry is a lifesaver flying back into the states in many airports. Especially Chicago. I would parrot most people - it is worth it over TSA, even if you aren’t flying internationally many times each year. However it is just a longer process to get it and less locations for the interview, compared to precheck, and it still might be backed up to get one. I had to choose a less convenient location to do mine since anything closer to me was booked out for months.
Anecdotally (I haven’t gone through my first renewal yet), getting it renewed can be hopefully done online without an interview. So renewing it hopefully simpler. It’s just the initial application.
Renewal is easy and done online
You helped with my 2023 travel now you explained my 2024 self scan thank you!!! First time going to Las Vegas and I get to do a new thing good to know
Yay! But it is only in one section. My brother could not find it.
I think the issue in Europe, with the smaller liquids bag, is that they use the metric system. A litre is a little smaller than a quart. Great travel tips once again!
In the US, a liquid quart is equal to approximately 0.946353 liters
@@carlomarzot9654 I grew up with imperial quarts, so maybe the issue in Europe is that they are just more strict 😊
I think you mean the issue in the rest of the world- because it’s pretty much only the USA that doesn’t use metric any more (fyi, the difference is negligible)
My husband and I travelled to several Central European counties in December. The entire travel experience was seamless and comfortable. We have Global Entry but there wasn’t any other flights when we landed in Atlanta so there was no wait.
Meanwhile tens of thousands are coming through the open southern border without any checkpoints 😂😂😂 so absurd
Thanks for all your great tips! We love to travel and this summer we are taking the whole family to Africa. We are super excited! I’m taking notes on all your great advice and suggestions.
Oh wow!!
I think that self scan is a very bad idea. I think it will cause delays and many other issues
That was my first thought.
Haha hope you have a great year! Thanks for watching.@@missmayflower