TSA Travel Requirements (know before you go)
Wow! Traveling by air has certainly changed in the last few years: …liquids, then no liquids, then some limited liquids; … two carry-ons, now one; ….passports required or no passports; …IDs and boarding passes at security checkpoints.It’s hard to keep up and hard to know how to properly prepare. Let’s face it. We live in a different world today than even two years ago. There are new security concerns, new travel restrictions and new TSA regulations and airport security measures. Plus, with the increasing fuel costs, the airline baggage requirements are also changing, seemingly everyday. Here is a quick guide to the TSA travel requirements and airline baggage regulations. If in doubt, always check with your air carrier prior to traveling.
TSA travel requirements for liquids in Carry-on Bags:
“3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3 ounce bottle or less (by volume); 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3 oz. container size is a security measure.
“Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.
“Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.
“3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.
“Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.”
…source: Transportation Security Administration website (www.tsa.gov)
How Many Carry-ons and what size?
According to the FAA…
“The maximum size carry-on bag for most airlines is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). Anything larger should be checked.” Typically this is a bag that is 22” or smaller.
Each airline has their own specific regulations and you should check with the airline if you have questions. Most airlines have a weight limit of 40 pounds for carry-ons and 50 pounds for checked bags. Any excess weight will usually carry a surcharge.
… source: Federal Aviation Administration (www.faa.gov)
Most airlines limit passengers to one carry-on and one personal item (jacket, purse, business or laptop case). Note that each airline has the right to check any bag, despite their carry-on policy. If in doubt, always check with your airline for their carry-on policies.
Passports or No Passports?
Not sure what you’ll need for international travel (including Mexico and Canada)?
Air Travel
All U.S. citizens including children must present a passport or secure travel document when entering the United States by air.
Land/Sea Travel
Beginning January 31, 2008, the United States will end the practice of accepting oral declarations of citizenship at the border.
· U.S. citizens ages 19 and older must present documentation that proves both identity and citizenship. Identification documents must include a photo, name and date of birth.
· Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.
…source Department of Homeland Security
IDs and Boarding Passes at airport security checkpoints:
All airport security checkpoints require a boarding pass and “Beginning on May 26, 2008, adult passengers (18 and over) will be required to show a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID that contains the following: name, date of birth, gender, expiration date and a tamper-resistant feature.” This identification must match the boarding pass.
During the screening process all your 'carry' items will be x-rayed. Remove your shoes and empty your pockets into one of the security bins that is provided. If you are carrying a laptop, remove it from the case.
…source Transportation Security Administration (www.TSA.gov)
Carry-Ons ... as seen on ABC's Good Morning America
Excerpts from July 1, 2008 broadcast...
Picking the Right Carry-On
"Obviously, the best way to beat the check-in fees is to pack as lightly as possible and put as mu
ch as you can into a carry-on."
"...there is the Skyway Montage 22-inch vertical carry-on, which costs between $70 and $140. It's an expandable polyester, soft-sided bag and has two roomy front exterior pockets, interior shoe bags, and a leak-proof cosmetic case that is removable.Other features include, tie-down straps inside to secure items and reduce wrinkling. It will go a long way to help you get that baggage in the overhead compartment."
Buy the Skyway Montage here... Irv's Price $69.99
"Finally, there is the Delsey Helium Fusion 21-inch carry-on, priced at $79.99 At 9 pounds the bag has an expandable fiberglass graphite frame covered in polyester. The sturdy construction and low price make it a good bargain."
"It's up to 40 percent lighter than the traditional upright suitcase. It also has an adjustable tote and a long clip to carry additional bags. It offers all of the above while giving you generous expansion and maximum storage capacity. It's inexpensive, but it will work."
Buy Delsey Helium Fusion... Irv's Luggage Price $64.99
What ABC's Good Morning America didn't report...
There are many fine brands of lightweight luggage that provide you with lots of packing space and meet the airline requirements for carry-ons. Here are a few of Irv's Luggage customer favorites...
Eagle Creek Hovercraft... the 22" Hovercraft carry-on weighs in at 7 lbs 6 oz. This is a wonderfully packable bag that expands to hold 3400 cubic inches. Priced at $200 at Irv's
Lu
ggage, this is a very popular bag.
Eagle Creek Load Warrior LT ... the carry-on weighs in at 6 lbs 8 oz. and is one of the lightest duffels available in the market. The Load Warrior is another customer favorite for its book-style opening for easy packing and its multiple pockets for easy storage of accessories. Priced at $165 at Irv's Luggage.
American Tourister iLite... a whole collection of luggage that is lightweight, wheels easily and is reasonably priced. The American Tourister iLite XL 21" carry-on is priced at $79.99 at Irv's.
Travel light and travel well. The airline weight requirements will change periodically as the unrelentlessly rising gas prices continue. However, a good piece of lightweight luggage will serve you well for years to come
Tumi Innovations for Superior Performance
Alpha FXT Ballistic Nylon
There’s ballistic nylon and then there is Tumi ballistic nylon.
Most generic ballistic nylon is made by a single, extruding strand yarn. However, Tumi found that single strand yarn to be inferior and therefore does not use it. Instead Tumi uses multiple, smaller strands of yarn that are wrapped and twisted to construct larger multi strands. The result is a yarn that is not brittle like a single strand, but more flexible and gains strength across all of the woven lengths to deliver vastly improved performance.
The twisted yarn concept can be found in many industrial applications, such as, high tensile steel cables used to hold bridges together or heavy-duty ropes used by tugboats to pull heavy barges. The key is the increased strength caused by the interweaving of strands.
Some manufacturers use the denier of the yarn as a way of leveling fabric technology to a simple number. These competitors infer that whoever has the highest number is best, which is a grossly misleading tactic.
In addition to multi strand technology, FXT is more than just the thread construction. It also has a Tumi proprietary coating that resists fraying when the yarn is cut. By keeping the thread bound, it cannot unravel and deteriorate. This binding technique also provides increased resistance to abrasion. Simply stated, your Tumi ballistic nylon products are stronger, more durable and will wear better than other competitor’s ballistic nylon products.
Also, last but not least, FXT is backed with a Tumi proprietary material that prevents water from passing thru to the inside of the bag. This material, acts like an invisible membrane, which provides additional strength across the fabric making FXT ballistic the most durable, high performance fabric in the world. This innovation is so important that Tumi has trademarked this material.
The ultimate fabric test to determine durability is the tabor test. FXT attains between 3,000 - 3,600 cycles before failure, whereas most competitor’s fabrics will fail before 600 cycles, which makes FXT 5 times (or more) stronger than competing materials.
Tumi innovations – you may not be able to see the differences with your naked eye. But, Tumi has built its reputation on quality, innovation and style. Tumi Alpha FXT ballistic nylon is clearly superior… something you won’t see – but you’ll know.
Tumi Alpha Laptop Sleeves- Compressed Foam Protection
Its “safe” to say, that the age of the safe-case is over. If you look at the market, you will see that the hottest selling laptop protection is currently the neoprene sleeve. The reason is simple. The older, sling style safe-cases are simply no longer as necessary as they were 10 years ago - when laptops were simply more fragile. Today's computer manufacturers have dramatically improved the durability of their laptops. Thus, the trend toward heavy, bulky safe-cases has thankfully passed. Add the fact that the trend by consumers is to lighten the load at every opportunity. Customers want their laptops as thin, lightweight and capable as possible... one reason the new Apple MacAir has created such tremendous interest.
The good news for business people that carry laptops,is that Tumi is keeping up with the trend. Tumi's new Alpha laptop protection system uses compressed, slow foam. This Tumi innovation does an outstanding job of absorbing and isolating impact, before it reaches the computer. The Tumi foam starts out originally at over an inch thick and then is compressed to a denser thickness – just like EVA foam. This compressed foam expands and contracts slowly, due to the high density of the foam cells – think “Tempur-Pedic” mattress, just highly compressed. Tumi added an additional linear rib pattern which cradles and secures the laptop snuggly to the laptop pocket. The linear ribs provide an extra layer of air cushioning between the foam and the laptop. Tumi's laptop protection system has been designed and engineered to provide the maximum protection possible, while maintaining a compact size and is very lightweight. This is an wonderful example of Tumi innovation and classic solution.
While consumers want the slimmest, lightest laptop, they still haven’t given up carrying lots of papers, files, pamphlets,computer accessories,phones, pda’s, pens and other “essentials”. Despite the trend toward small and compact, Tumi's most popular selling business cases are the 26160 and 96160, Tumi's largest non-wheeled business cases. Sometimes what people want doesn't match what they need.
The good news is that Tumi gives you the choice...compact and lightweight or larger and lightweight. Either way, Tumi's innovative laptop protection system will keep your laptop safe from the bumps and bruises along the road.
Shop Tumi's Alpha Business Collection
Tumi introduces the Tumi Alpha Collection
Tumi’s Alpha Collection incorporates 25 years of style, design and innovatio
n. The new Tumi Alpha Collection is the rare combination of true, classic style with futuristic design. Alpha clearly demonstrates both Tumi's iconic style and their design ingenuity. The Alpha Collection design anticipates customers' needs to streamline both travel and business experiences. Tumi's newest addition falls into two lines: the Tumi Alpha Travel Collection and the Tumi Alpha Business Collection. According to Tumi… “Alpha styles are lighter and more durable because of superior materials, construction and overall design. Inspired by aeronautics, automotives and sports, Tumi’s components reach a new level of excellence in the Alpha Collection.”
With the introduction of the Alpha Collection, Tumi continues to set the standard. And, this time, Tumi has set the bar high… out of reach for even the most innovative luggage and business case designers and manufacturers.
“Tumi continues to set the standard with exclusive, custom-designed precision systems and components” (aka as the top 12 design innovations that sets Tumi apart from the others… or the real reasons to buy a Tumi)
1) FXT Ballistic Nylon combines the most durable ballistic woven nylon with a water-resi
stant backing and a special fabric coating… for long lasting, durable and virtually waterproof finish that will look good and keep your belongings dry. 2) Select styles are available in our exclusive soft, supple and durable glove tanned leather that will burnish to a beautiful patina over time. Alpha Leather is thicker than previous Tumi leather products and is a vastly superior material.
3) Tumi's trademark U-zip pockets offer a wide-mouth opening to large, deep capacious pockets…who doesn’t need or want bigger, better and more accessible pockets?
4) Tumi claims to make the best handle system in the industry. Tumi’s push-button, telescoping handle incorporates aircraft grade aluminum to ensure maximum strength…finally a handle that will withstand the pressures and damage of traveling.
5) Tumi has an easy, pop-up expansion frame is made of sturdy ABS honeycomb…finally an expansion frame that is both durable and functional!
6) Omega 2010 is Tumi’s patented zipper system. It has specially designed pullers engineered to break away if caught in a conveyor…zippers are usually the first thing to go… maybe Tumi has something here.
7) Tumi’s Add-A-Bag strap enables multiple bags to be carried at once…ok, not unique to Tumi, but it sure is nice.
8) Tumi’s integrated wheels and skids act as structural components to strengthen the construction of packing cases… hmmm, sounds good. Anything to make add strength but not weight. 9) Tumi’s laptop padding uses compressed foam to cradle computers…protection from the most potentially damaging situations.
10) Tumi’s Alpha Collection has ballistic accessory pouches are included with laptop computer bags...great for the extra storage compartments that you’ll need.
11) Tumi has their own safe and secure TSA combination locks offer peace of mind to the frequent flyer…necessary in today’s world.
12) The Tumi Tracer program is designed to help reunite you with your lost bags…a great innovation for lost bags.
Tumi is the leading international brand of luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories. Since its founding in 1975, Tumi's commitment to design excellence, functional superiority and technical innovation has made it the brand of choice for the world's most discerning and demanding consumers. Today, Tumi's award-winning products range from luggage, business cases and handbags to wallets, writing instruments and watches.
Shop all Tumi Alpha Business Collection
Shop All Tumi Alpha Travel Collection
Luggage... a Little Travel Humor
Nearly everyone who travels frequently has a war story about their luggage… lost, broken, maimed, damaged, missing parts, whatever. You may arrive soundly at your destination, but until you actually see your checked bag rolling around at the airline carousel, there is always that nagging feeling of 'will it appear and in what condition'. Here are a couple of funny videos you might enjoy that were found on YouTube.
Have a good laugh over something that concerns all of us… (note: this runs a couple of minutes, but it is a good laugh).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEL3kZKHfds
Now you’ll know why your bag didn’t arrive, as scheduled…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwi0Zh-QuIs&feature=related
You probably know the feeling as you stood and waited hopelessly watching the carousel...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NmlKbKl-AY&NR=1
Now you know why your luggage needs repair.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caxc48Ig44I&feature=related
Kids Luggage - Whimsical and Functional
From the time my son was two he wanted to do everything for himself… whether he actually cou
ld or not was irrelevant. Traveling through airports became especially hard, given the distance, little legs and the size of the bags. Usually by the time we reached the gate we were exhausted, frustrated and the enthusiasm for toting the luggage had waned (for both of us). So, what’s the solution?Child’s Luggage… Appropriately Sized and Designed to Work!
Thank goodness for kids luggage! Several top luggage manufacturers now offer appropriately-sized wheeled luggage, carry-ons, backpacks and duffels. With whimsical designs
, these miniature versions of adult luggage have caught on with the ‘do-it-yourself’ kids. Samsonite has Sammies; Mercury offers the ‘Goin’ to Grandma’s’ collection, Wildkin offers a gender appropriate sport collection and Skyway has a boy’s and a girl’s collection. Kids can choose from wheeled duffels and wheeled backpacks to duffel bags, backpacks and simple totes. These bags won’t carry as much as the adult version, but then again, kid’s clothes are typically smaller. 
Maybe, just maybe, having their own bag to carry might make the journey a little easier, for both of you.
Duffels... The New Luggage?
It used to be that duffels (aka gym bags… if you are 50+) were limited to transporting workout clothes and equipment to games or health club. Now, however, duffels seem to be popping up everywhere… as a favorite of both the sports enthusiast as well as the frequent (and casual) traveler. Add a few inline wheels and a little bit of styling and voila… you’ve got the perfect carry-on! The traditional luggage companies (Travelpro, Briggs & Riley, Samsonite, Tumi, Boyt, Victorinox) have taken notice, but leading the way are companies like: High Sierra, Eagle Creek and Kipling. Here are a few of our favorites…
The Perfect Carry-On:
Lightweight, easy to maneuver and very stylish, wheeled duffels are rapidly becoming a favorite carry-on among travelers. Plus, duffels (especially the expandable ones) seem to hold an enormous amount of whatever your travel needs require. One of the most popular wheeled duffel is from High Sierra’s ATQ collection. High Sierra advertises this as ‘three bags in one… wheeled upright, a duffel or a backpack.” The styling may be perfect for the casual traveler, but this bag will hold up to the rigors of any road warrior. The 22”
carry-on size retails at $280, but is available at under $140. Good-bye gym, hello airline.
Women’s Duffels
Take notice…women’s duffels are elegant, sleek and the perfect traveling companion. Two favorite styles are from Ricardo of Beverly Hills and French Luggage. These both have classic looks and styling, inline skate wheels for maneuverability and are sized for airline carry-on. Who wouldn’t look great with one of these duffels?
Leather Duffels …there is nothing like the look and feel of leather. Piel Leather, Clava Leather, Tumi and David King all offer luxurious duffels in beautiful, top quality leather. Convenience, luxury, elegance and style…what more could you ask?
Most duffels have all the convenience of the traditional carry-on bag, plus more. The top brands have pockets for tickets, cell phones and many even have a separate compartment for your laptop. So, the next time you are thinking about buying luggage, take a look some of the new styles of duffels. You might be very pleasantly surprised.
Korchmar's Best Selling Business Case
According to representatives at Korchmar (also known for for their popular Schlesinger brand), their
largest selling laptop / business case is the Adventure Collection Flapover Litigator Briefcase (KR BR SF1093). This beautiful laptop case is made from oil-tanned antique leather. It has a wonderful soft-as-butter feel to it, but you’ll know the moment that you pick it up, this is a sturdy, long lasting, durable business case. The roomy interior will accommodate a laptop with up to a 17” screen and is lined with a washable nylon lining. The expandable exterior pockets are perfect for cell phones, pda… virtually any business accessory. You don’t need to be a ‘litigator’ to appreciate the many refinements: top grain leather, padded handle or the ‘quick –release’ buckle adjusters for expansion. As your trusted companion in meeting after meeting and on long road trips, this business case projects an image of success. If you are looking for an executive laptop case -that reflects your professionalism (and accommodates all your business needs)- this may be the perfect case. After all, it is Korchmar’s top seller!
New from Ricardo of Beverly Hills and International Traveller... High Fashion Meets Luggage
How much time have you spent watching the luggage carousel at the airport go ‘round and ‘ro
und with the seemingly endless flow of the same-looking black luggage? There is the occasional dark green or tan bag and the occasional neon luggage tag to spice up the endless flow of black. Get ready for some spice at the carousel counter…. Here comes some of the latest luggage fashions. Tumi launched a significant departure from their traditional black and chestnut to introduce Flame in the Tumi T-Tech Pulse collection. Perhaps this is aimed at the young, affluent crowd. This is one bag you will spot on the luggage carousel.
International Traveller took a huge departure from their traditional colors last year to introduce the Dots and Moo collection. This year, seems to be International Traveller’s year of Stripes. While these bags won’t last forever, these are fun, stylish and you’ll be able to spot your bag from across the tarmac. And, since the Dots collection sold well, International Traveller has added the homey colors of Sangria and Green. Better have some Sangria to make the green more palatable.
New from Ricardo of Beverly Hills...
Tailored for the fashionable woman is the new Samora collection from Ricardo of Beverly Hills. This collection has a classic fashion look of striped Jacquard fabric is tightly woven, cotton, acrylic with a rich look - a warm cocoa color- and feel. The Samora Shopping Tote offers style in your every day travels.
Scoring interest with the twenty-something crowd is the Hovercraft from Eagle Creek. Hovercraft is ridiculously well designed and utilizes the popular Eagle Creek Pack-It System. This is lightweight, functional and carries a lifetime warranty. You’ll see quite a lot of Hovercraft accessorizing the suit and tie crowd as well as those traveling in jeans. Eagle Creek Hovercraft is available in tomato (red), tree frog (green), graphite and the latest color: marine (blue). Goodbye dull black case, goodbye red and navy blue… I won’t miss you.