Taking a look at your airlines website is a good idea to see the specific restrictions that exsist now for what can and cannot be brought on board or packed in your carry on / checked bags.
A LOT has changed in 20 years when it comes to flying!
Every airlines' website has a section where you can get up to date info.
In general, when packing your bags, you cannot bring liquids or gels of any kind over 3 ounces in a carry on bag that comes on the plane with you.
You can however have your over 3 ounce containers in a checked bag ( non-carry on ).
So if you are doing carry on only, pack only small 'travel sized' items.
Now those under-3 ounce tolitries have to be placed into a certain sized plastic bag for pre-flight security screening.
Everything from toiletries to perfume to toothpaste now has to be bagged in a quart-sized Ziploc slide top plastic bag and presented for inspection during your security screening at the airport.
Be sure to finish any beverages or snacks before passing through the security screening area too...as they will be confiscated ( no liquids over 3 ounces, remember..? )
Non-liquid /gel like snacks ( crackers, granola bars, etc. ) are okay, so be sure to pack some for the flight!
When i travel, i tend to bring a roller bag and a messenger bag both as carry on.
I never check bags, exspecially now with all the added fees.
Another reason why it is good to check your particular airlines website...if for some reason they require you to check your bags, you will be charged $25 or more depending on the airline.
Pack valuable stuff such as electronics, money, travel papers, jewelry, or fragile items in a tote bag, backpack, or any other soft sided item you can sling on your shoulder that can easily be stowed under the seat in front of you once on board.
Items you will want to use while seated in flight should also be placed in that bag at your feet so you can easily get to them.
So pack any books, music players, games, or dry snacks in a smaller bag.
Your roller bags / carry on suitcases will be stowed in a luggage compartment above the seats and you don't always get the spaces near your actual seat.
With many more people now doing carry on bags to avoid today's airline baggage fees your flight may run out of compartment space.
In that case, you will be asked to check your bags.
Another reason it is good to put your absolute essential travel items in that tote bag or backpack at your feet!
The only other thing I can offer advice on - PACK LIGHT!
Decide in advance what clothing and other items you REALLY need and leave the rest behind.
You will thank yourself later, as you will need that extra space for all the goodies you will be bringing home!
Hope this helps, and have a fabulous trip!
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