Packing List & TSA Security Notes
Below is our suggested packing list along with notes regarding TSA security for groups that are flying
General Packing List
- One suitcase (within airline specifications – under 50 lbs.)
- Backpack (for airline carry-on and day use)
Clothing
- Layered, comfortable clothing options for unpredictable weather
- Rain/windproof jacket or poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes with cushion support (closed toe, sneakers are fine)
- Dress clothes (if your group has a theatrical show or special event)
- Undergarments
- Swimsuit (if pool time is allowed)
- Pajamas/sleeping attire
- Brimmed hat for shade (during the summer months)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Shampoo & soap (also provided by the hotel)
- Hair brush/comb
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
- Contact lens supplies (if necessary)
- Hygiene products
- Prescription medication (in carry on and may want to be given to chaperone for distribution) Remember: no sharp objects in carry-on baggage. Pack toiletries in checked bag to avoid TSA limitations on container size. Please review TSA rules below.
Miscellaneous
- Picture identification (if available)
- Money (about $25 cash per day for souvenirs and snacks)
- Camera (labeled with name and number) with extra batteries, memory card, or film
- Journal & writing utensil
- Reading material (during flights and bus rides between cities)
- Water bottle
- Travel umbrella
- Sunglasses
Notes
Layers of clothing are crucial. Be prepared to add or remove clothing as the weather may change. Comfortable shoes are essential – you will be on your feet all day.
You will have to pass through many security screens: avoid large metallic jewelry, big belt-buckles, studded garments, and loose change in pockets. Airlines rarely offer meals on domestic flights now, so plan accordingly with flight snacks. Make sure your luggage meets airline specifications – checked bags should not exceed 50 pounds. Pack medications and other valuables in your carry-on in case of luggage loss or delay.
Travel and Security Administration Travel Tips
When you depart…
- For all the latest security policies, visit TSA’s website(opens in a new tab).
- Pack the majority of your liquids/gels/aerosols in your checked baggage, and wrap in plastic to avoid leakage under flight pressure.
- If traveling with a carry-on only, you are permitted one clear plastic, zip-lock bag holding 3 ounces or less of liquids, gels, or aerosols. Limited to one bag per traveler. Exceptions include: baby formula/breast milk/baby food while traveling with a small child, medications, liquids or gels for diabetics or other medical needs. All exceptions must be declared to the security officer for screening.
- All footwear must be removed for x-ray screening. Wearing footwear that can be easily removed helps.
- Pack valuables such as jewelry, cash and electronics, as well as fragile items in your carry-on. This will speed the screening process.
- Avoid wearing accessories that contain metal as they will set off the metal detector.
When you arrive…
- Place the following items in your carry-on before entering the screening checkpoint: cell phones, keys, loose change, jewelry, and large metal items.
- Take your quart-size plastic zip-top bag out of your carry-on and place separately in bin.
- Take your quart-size plastic zip-top bag out of your carry-on and place separately in bin, and declare all permitted liquid exceptions to the security officer in front of the checkpoint.
- Take your laptop and other large electronics out of their cases for screening.
- Remove your outer coat, jacket, or blazer to place in bin for x-ray screening.
For further questions regarding airport security, visit www.tsa.gov(opens in a new tab).