When people are go through the X-ray machines at the airport, there is often a lot of confusion when it comes to what needs to go through, what can stay on you, and what needs to be in a separate container of its own. Instead of wasting time having to get everything through in the proper way through trial and error, it is better to know what to except so you are ready the first time through.

When it comes to items that need to go through the scanner, be prepared to take off your shoes, all jackets and sweaters, and any scarves, jewelry, etc. The basic rule is, if it is loose, it comes off. If you have metal belt buckles, hair clips, loose change, or anything else in your pockets, take it out and put them in a small X-ray container.

If you are traveling with a lap top, take it out of its case and put it through the machine in its own container. Shoes can usually go directly on the screening belt.

If you are careful to follow these rules the first time through, you will save yourself time and hassle. For a more comprehensive list on how to prepare, check out this site.

Baggage:
-Mark your luggage clearly so it won’t get lost and so it’s easily spotable on the carousel
-Pay all fees before hand online so you have no surprises
-Follow the online guidelines for liquids and powders, among other items. Don’t wrap gifts! They may unwrap them at the airport.

Seats:
-Get there on time
-Check online itinerary
-Print out boarding pass before you arrive at the airport, it will save time and hassle

Health: Drink your orange juice!
-Make sure you are healthy before you travel, this will protect other travelers from illness, but you will be able to navigate the commotion much easier as well

Relax:
-While you wait, try to relax. Sit back and observe the people around you and think about all of the stories they have to tell. It’s like magic. Suddenly the airport isn’t half as bad!

Take it one thing at a time:
-If there’s a delay, don’t panic. Just wait patiently, it will all work out in the end. Do stand up for yourself and know what the airport owes you for cancellations of flights, etc. However, when the first delay hits don’t start conjuring up ideas of cancellations, followed by flying all over the nation to get to your destination intermingled with more delays, only to end up a week late at you desired destination. Most likely this one delay is all that there will be! And if there’s more-worry about that when it happens. The key: Don’t worry!

Entertainment:
-Take something to do if there is a delay. Especially if you have children, this will help the time pass by much quicker.