Tips for Traveling (reposted and edited greatly due to laziness)

I advise all travelers to go to www.tsa.gov and click on travel tips if you DON'T want to be surprised at security. As a TSA employee I have come across the most insane of situations. These situations are tedius, annoying, and easily prevented. Here are some you might not see on the website:

•metal bracelets: they WILL ALARM THE METAL DETECTOR. So if you can live without then for a day then please don't wear them when going through security. They piss off the officers because it's annoying to have to pat down someone who is too lazy to take that stuff off. We don't mind the extra screenin. Of those who alarm legitimately (I.e. Those with metal implants or real threats) but those bracelets are a thorn in our sides. Plus it slows down the lane which makes the lines long and annoys other passengers.

•shoes: ok this is on the site but I have to reinterate. SHOES MUST COME OFF. All types of all sizes and all styles. Just buck up and take them off. We don't like to smell your feet either so start applyig some odor eaters or clean you feet and wear clean socks. Do somehing for your god aweful feet!

•liquid limitations: also on site. 3.4ounces or 100mL in a clear QUART (not gallon) size bag. Why? Because of the foiled plot that happened 3 years ago in the UK. It also applies to food items such as jams, peanut butter, dips, hummus, yogurt, water, etc. If it ain't solid or not within those regulations then either eat it before you come or check it in. I don't care about you favorite brand, it's going in the trash if you bring it through security.

Pack lightly if possible and don't overstuff your carry-on bag. If it's heavy and overstuffed and then we have to check it you are putting OUR SAFETY AND HEALTH at risk and we are less inclined to help you repack it. In fact, if you are a pain then expect to be treated the same. Give us a bit of respect and we will treat you with respect. If you follow the rules and are patient then I promise
you security will be a breeze. Just remember that these are federal officers and you can be arrested if you start a fight or pose a
serious threat.

Also a thank you neve hurt anyone. It oftentimes makes my day. :)


*I say reposted and edited b/c I've made previous drafts only to have deleted them later*