Getting Ready and Packed for the Airport

Well, East Coasters, we are just Seven Days away from our big trip, and the first adventure we will all face together is getting through airport security.  However, with some advanced planning and wise decisions, we can all make it through quickly and easily.  Here are some tips:

Photo ID –  Sometimes the airport checks IDs on our kids, and other times they don’t, but I don’t take any chances. Therefore, I have asked that ALL students give me their Rio Norte Student ID on Friday, 3/29 at lunch.  If your child doesn't have their school ID, they should get one this week at the library.  I keep all the IDs together in one binder sorted alphabetically to make it easy for check-in. The ticketing agents appreciate this and are usually extra-patient with us as a result.  I will return the ID's to the students following check in, and they will need to be responsible for keeping it safe and accessible the rest of the trip.  All adult travelers will definitely need a valid government-issued photo ID.

Reduce your metal – Try to wear as little metal as possible to the airport.  Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and even clothing with metal accessories attached to them always have the potential to set off the system (metal-rimmed eyeglasses are OK). If you’re into those big skater belt buckles, leave them at home.  Finally, any other objects (watch, camera, cell phone, coins) that could activate the metal detector should be placed in your backpack. Take some time BEFORE we get to the airport to do this, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. The only things that should be in your hand or in your pockets as you walk through security should be your boarding pass and ID.  You MUST have these with you when you walk through security.

Measure up – I’ve already told you that your checked suitcase should be no heavier than 45 pounds. The airlines set 50 pounds as the absolute maximum, but you’re probably going to bring back more than you went out with, so leave yourself some room...I will be weighing bags at Rio Norte before we get on the bus. 

Smart shoes – The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will require you to take off your shoes and place them in a bin to be scanned. Make sure to wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on (no double or triple knots in your laces), but keep in mind these are probably the same shoes you will wear throughout much of our first day on tour.

Sweatshirts, jackets, and hoodies – If your outer layer is one that can be easily shed (zip-up hoodie or jacket), be prepared. TSA may ask you to remove it, place it in a bin, and run it through the scanner. If it’s a pull-over sweater or sweatshirt, they generally will let you leave it on. I actually recommend that whatever warm coat you’re bringing on the trip you actually wear to the airport and DON’T pack it. It’s one less bulky item to pack in your suitcase and it could double as a pillow or a blanket on the plane.  Speaking of jackets, many of our students are used to California weather, and only pack a sweatshirt or hoodie.  These aren't helpful in the rain.  I suggest bringing a coat or jacket that has some ability to deflect rain in order to enhance comfort.

Gallon/Quart-size bags – If you’re toting tons of electronics with you (cell phone, cell phone charger, headphones/earbuds) all in your backpack, it may look like you’re carrying some sort of explosive triggering device. Make your life and the life of your TSA screener easier by grouping these items into quart-size or gallon-size Ziploc storage bags. I’m partial to the gallon-size freezer bags because they’re a little sturdier. If the TSA screener has to open your bag, it will be easy for them to see you have nothing suspicious. Plus, it will be easier for you to find your stuff later without cords getting all tangled up.  You can also use quart bags for your medications with your foldable medication authorization form.

Avoid liquids in carry-on – In the TSA 3-1-1 guide (available HERE), it talks about the rule for bringing liquids in your carry-on. I’m not bringing ANY liquids in my carry-on luggage (my backpack). All my hair gel, toothpaste, shampoo, etc. goes into my toiletry bag in my checked luggage. Why do you need hair gel or perfume on the airplane? These guidelines are mostly geared to overnight travelers who pack everything into their carry-on, and that’s not us.

There are tons of other prohibited items that I'm not going into, but most of these are common sense. Here's a good rule: if it's not allowed at school, it's probably not allowed on a plane. Please ask Mr. Sheridan if you are unclear about what is prohibited and what is not.

“Lay it Out” – When it comes to personal travel, it is important to be an efficient packer.  If you forget something, we won't have the luxury to buy items next week, which is why I suggest laying out all your things on a table, bed or other flat surface. On that flat surface, place your packing list and then item by item lay everything out that you need. Deodorant: check. Toothpaste: check. Phone Charger: check.  Hand Sanitizer: check.

If you haven’t set up your own version of this technique yet, I urge you to consider it. Lay everything out in advance now so you know what you have and what you may still need to get over the next week. Places like Rite-Aid are not always easily accessible with the places we’re visiting and the schedule we’re on. Hotel gift shops often sell toothpaste and batteries and deodorant, but it is likely at a significantly higher price, and your access to these stores is limited.

Students—The next time I’ll see you is Friday 3/29 AT LUNCH in Rm. G-2!
Parents - I'll see you at Rio a little later on Friday March 29th at 5:30pm!

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch.