Roam if you want to: Some things to remember before you leave on that jet plane
MANILA, Philippines - It’s that time of the year again, when not even the air conditioning in our offices can keep our daydreams of warm, sandy beaches or cool mountain climes from invading our minds when we really should be working on that report, which was due yesterday, by the way.
For most of us, summer is when the adventure bug bites, when 7,100 islands aren’t enough to hold the wanderlust that suddenly seizes us. For parents, summer is the time to bond with their kids. For professionals, it’s the perfect time to hit the beach.
But traveling isn’t as easy as it used to be. You just can’t stuff clothes into a backpack and go. The threat of terrorism has resulted in tightened airport security and procedures. Seasoned travelers probably know these by heart, but it doesn’t hurt to be given a refresher course.
Before you pass go
Make sure that you have all your documentation with you before you leave. Aside from your passport and tickets, take along an official ID, such as your driver’s license or SSS ID, just in case you encounter a situation where you have to present more than one proof of identification.
Acceptable IDs are those that have your name, gender, date of birth, an expiration date and a tamper-proof seal on them. Have three photocopies of your travel documents made. Keep one copy in your carry-on, one in your luggage, and give one to a trusted person in your home country. That way, if your documents get lost or stolen, you have something to fall back on.
Speaking of passports, the Philippine government started issuing electronic or e-passports last year. While there are plans to fully convert to the electronic system, those holding old passports need not worry, as they can be used until they expire, whereupon an electronic one will be issued.
In plane sight
Airline regulations include the amount of liquids you can take on carry-on. Amounts vary from country to country, but it’s safe to observe The Unites States’ Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 311 rule, which is: only 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottles or less of liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) stored in one quart-sized (approximately 20 x 20 cm or one liter), clear, plastic zip-top bag, with only one bag allowed per passenger. Bigger bottles will have to be checked in. Half-empty containers over 100 ml are not allowed, even if they only have 3.4 ounces of liquid in them. Keep the zip-top bag in a convenient pocket, as you’ll have to take them out every time you pass through security.
The same goes for your laptop and other electronics, which have to be taken out of the bag when passing through countries like the U.S. Exceptions to the 311 rule include medication and baby formula, which have to be declared during baggage checks.
Each person is allowed to carry two bags onto the plane, as long as they fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment. According to Philippine Airlines, carry-on luggage should not measure more than 45 inches and not weigh more than seven pounds.
Check in, check out
The amount of baggage you can check in will depend on the class you are traveling on, as well as your destination. Some airlines charge a fee when you check in luggage, and all airlines will charge a fee if you exceed the prescribed weight limit. Sharp objects should be sheathed and checked in. The same goes for sporting goods and outdoor gear.
Some items, however, cannot be brought into another country, even if they are checked in. These include lighters (unless they have no fuel and are checked in) and hazardous chemicals. If you’re traveling to the Middle East, make sure you don’t bring items deemed offensive to the Muslim culture such as pork products, religious books and figures, alcohol, pornography and gambling paraphernalia.
It may seem like a lot to remember, but as you take more trips, things like this soon become second nature. Keeping the rules in mind makes for a smoother trip, a fresher arrival, and a good start to a wonderful and well-deserved vacation.
