McAllen Airport, TSA Offer Summer Travel Tips

If your 2010 summer travel plans include air travel, the McAllen International Airport and the Transportation Security Administration have some tips to help you arrive on time and not get left behind.

TSA wants travelers to arrive at the airport 1 1/2 hour prior to their scheduled flight departure. This allows for additional time to find parking, to check-in and to clear security.

Passengers should:

Follow the 3-1-1 rule

• 3 ounces or smaller containers of liquids, gels and aerosols
• 1 quart plastic zip top bag
• 1 bag per passenger, placed in a plastic bin

Don't pack prohibited items

• Firearms
• Knives
• Ammunitions
• Hazardous materials
• Sporting goods (golf clubs, bats, etc.)

Avoid wearing clothing with metal and stow metal items into carry-on luggage

Wear footwear that is easy to remove

Have your boarding pass and government issued identification ready when approaching the security checkpoint

Remove laptops, game consoles, DVD players and video cameras

If you are checking bags, make sure you lock them with TSA recognized locks

Be flexible

Don't assume that your last trip through security will be the same as the last time. TSA uses a layered approached to screening, which includes elements of unpredictability

Remember that security activities are designed to protect the traveling public and are not meant to be inconvenient

For more information, visit www.tsa.gov/travelers, www.mcallenairport.com or call (956) 681-1500.