Easy Tips to Breeze Through Airport Security

1. Wear slip-on shoes
Remember when you could walk through security at the airport with all of your clothing intact? Ah, the good old days.  Make sure you wear shoes that slip on and off easily to make the process quick and painless.
2. Skip the belt and heavy jacket
Again with the clothing removal. You'll have to remove your belt and any bulky jackets, so try to put together an outfit without them for the airport.

3. Have your ID/passport and boarding pass at the ready.
You always have to show your ID (or your passport) and your boarding pass when passing through security. Have it immediately available to move through quickly.

4. Know the 3-1-1 rule. 
Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes cannot be any larger than 3.4 oz per container. Keep them all in a 1 quart clear plastic bag with a zip-top. One full bag is the limit for each passenger.

5. Keep your laptop and liquids easily accessible. 
Laptops and liquids have to be removed from your carry-on before going through the scanner. Keep them at the top of your bag so you can easily remove them/put them back in. Laptops get their own bin.
6. Check the TSA website. 
If you have something in your bag that isn't allowed on a plane, you will be stopped and pulled aside, making for a timely and somewhat embarrassing experience. If you have any doubt about what you can't bring in your carry-on, there is a comprehensive list here.
7. Be aware. 
Keep an eye on the line and make sure you're moving with it. Have your documents ready when you're getting closer to the TSA officer, and be prepared to put your items on the belt when the time comes. Your experience will be easier and quicker, and your fellow travelers will thank you!

5 of the Best Packing Tips

1. Make a list
If my entire blog hasn't given it away already, I love making lists. The very first thing I do when planning a trip is write down my packing list. I like to go through a typical day in my mind and write down the things I'll need from start to finish. It also helps to lay out your outfits ahead of time and see how you can mix and match. The more looks you can create with minimal clothing, the better. Don't forget to write down things you'll need in your carry-on as well, like your ID, cash, kindle, etc.

2. Bring a smaller bag than you think you need
Then pack it, and take out half. We never need as much as we think we do. Don't worry about all of the things you might need. Bring the necessities and remember you can always buy any extras at your destination. By clearing out half of your bag, you'll restrict yourself to only the most important items, and you'll have room for the souvenirs and gifts you will inevitably bring home.

3. Make the most of that small space
You don't need a large bag, but you do need to make the most of the space you have. Rolling your clothes is one of my favorite tricks. You can also fill your shoes with socks to save space and help your shoes keep their shape. Lay bulky things like jeans and sweaters flat over the top of your bag and wear the bulkiest things on the plane.

4. Pack what you wear at home
When I'm at home I can wear the same yoga pants for a week. Then I pack for a week of vacation and I end up packing yoga pants, 2 pair of jeans, slacks, 2 skirts, and a dress "just in case". Of course none of it even leaves my bag and I end up wearing my comfy clothes the entire trip. Pack pieces that you wear regularly. If you're not comfortable in it at home, you won't be comfortable in it on vacation.

5. Packing cubes
I've raved about these before but I love packing cubes. They make it incredibly easy to organize and consolidate everything you're packing. My favorites are from REI. They're expandable, durable, and made with waterproof nylon if you want to fill one with toiletries like I do. Welcome to the world of easily condensing what would otherwise be a messy bundle of clothing.