Airport Security Rules and Regulations

Long gone of the days of the last minute check in.  Heavy security measures are a necessary evil that can make the airport a fairly traumatic place to be.  To counter this getting informed on the latest regulations will help leaving and arriving back in the country a smoother process.security Airport Security Rules and Regulations

Below are some general tips to make getting through security an easier process.  Just be sure to check up on both local and overseas customs and airport rules and regulations before you fly.

Hand luggage

  • Check online for an up to date list of prohibited items at the Australian government’s new website (http://travelsecure.infrastructure.gov.au/international/index.aspx).  It’s a comprehensive and up to date list of security regulations
  • Leave gifts unwrapped. They may be opened for inspection.  Avoid wearing clothing, jewellery, and accessories that contain metal.  Metal items may set off the alarm.
  • Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked screening equipment may damage undeveloped film.
  • Carry-on baggage is usually limited to one carry-on bag plus one personal item. Personal items include, laptops, purses, briefcases, or camera cases. These will be screened seperately to you main carry on bag.
  • Place identification tags in and on all of your baggage.  Don’t forget to label your lap top carry bag just in case.
  • Be aware of your possessions after they have been screened; there have been reports of increased left of wallets/phones ect from the conveyors at US airports.  Much better to have all your valuables in your main hand luggage bag.

Checked in baggage

After the Corby episode travellers seem to be more aware of what’s going on with their luggage.  Yet the chances of somebody planting drugs on you seem to be slim to none.  If you’re unsure you can lock or have your bag wrapped.  Be aware that if you plan to lock or have your bag wrapped in cling film (still available at some Australian airports), airport security may still want to open your bag after its been checked in and you may end up with broken locks at your destination.

Check the government website for up to date information on what you can and can’t take in your check in baggage.

Getting through Airport security

Before you hop in line…

  • Try to avoid taking drinks or food to the check point
  • Do not bring food to the security checkpoint unless it is wrapped or in a container. Unpeeled natural foods like fruit are usually okay.
  • Put any metal items inside your carry-on bag. Items like jewellery, loose change, keys and  mobile phones will set off the alarm as you walk through
  • Take out your laptop computer. Place it in a bin, separate from its carrying case.
  • Take off your coat or jacket and put in a separate. Suit jackets  are usually o.k.

Keeping up to date with the latest rules will help make the unpleasant airport experience more bearable.

**In early Febuary 2010 the federal government announced the introduction of full body scans at Australia’s major airports.  Not everybody will be scanned but this has the potential to make the wait in security longer.

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