I did catch myself speculating at the end of last week about whether there might be a group of 4-5 people at TSA/DHS just kind of sitting around in a back room...periodically coming up with totally insane/non-sensical "regulations" and then howling with laughter as they watch all of us comply with them. Sorry, but the idea that throwing out travel sized tubes of Prell and Aqua-Fresh is somehow making us safe from terrorism is laughable. I guess the theory is that if we smell like terrorists who've been living in training camps (where presumably there is a lack of toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant) somehow we'll fool real terrorists into not attacking us. It's genius! Aromatic camouflage.

Can't take water purchased inside the secure area (i.e. inside security) on the plane? What does that say about how "secure" your "secure area" is?

I always prefer to pee before boarding.

redjr...

Nail. On. Head.

Aside from the checkpoint antics, I think that statement is terribly honest and valid. Travel will never be like it used to, and without much logic behind the changes.

Picked up some more contact saline solution today for the house, and imagine that... Renu makes a 4oz bottle of no-rub. Well, that takes care of that...

Steve B.

TSA's website is still unclear (seems like most items listed are commonly used by women). I wanted to know about "Chapstick" as I don't consider it a gel and their site only mentioned lip gloss, lipstick, etc.

I emailed TSA on Sunday, asking them about "Chapstick" and telling them to clarify their site. As of today, I have received about 10 automated "we received your email" generic messages, but no response to my inquiry.

Confusing website, no replies to email for 4 days, strage auto-replies; this is the agency that is supposed to keep us safe?

My guess is that if lipstick and lip gloss are out, so is chapstick.

Anybody? We leave Friday and I have to figure out if she should bother writing up some prescriptions for gels/creams/liquids.

Thanks!

peace,
~Ben~

Chapstick is out. It's gel-based. (And I asked at a checkpoint yesterday.)

I put a bottle of water in my pocket and had no problem at all going through ATL and DTW ...

Chapstick and lipstick are both in.

From the TSA website bolding mine: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtrav...new-items.shtm


Due to enhanced security measures liquids, gels, lotions and other items of similar consistency will not be permitted in carry-on baggage. These types of items must be packed in your checked baggage.

Additionally, liquids, gels and lotions purchased beyond the checkpoint but must be disposed of before boarding the aircraft.

To ensure the health and welfare of certain air travelers the following items are permitted.

Small amounts of Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling
Liquid prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger�s ticket
Up to 8 oz. of liquid or gel low blood sugar treatment
Up to 4 oz. of essential non-prescription liquid medications
Gel-filled bras and similar prostethics worn for medical reasons
You are permitted to bring solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items as such lipstick, lip balm and similar solids. Please remember these items must be solid and not liquid, gel or aerosol

So, um, chapstick is back in? I guess only the liquified kind that squeezes out (like Blistex) is still out. From the same site, on the list of what's not allowed:

Lip gels such as Carmex or Blistex

It's no wonder infrequent travelers -- and even some frequent ones -- may be confused, let alone TSA screeners.

You, sir, are a terrorist

Terrorist may be a strong word, but anybody who intentionally breaks these rules should be punished. I think if they are caught, they should not be allowed to fly (at a minimum). I don't like all of the rules, but I will follow them. People that knowingly break these rules aren't helping anything.

I don't agree that we should all follow like mindless sheep, because some so called 'authority' decided what 'item of the day' would be forbidden.

You know, in certain circumstances, the technical terms for this would be 'mob rule.' Very popular, especially among those who own torches and pitchforks. But a bit unruly.

One of my favorite authors, Theodore Sturgeon, used to always wear a button that read, "Question Authority." His point, though, was to question it and ask for good supporting reasons for decisions. Not to blindly disobey them. That way lies the rule of selfishness and anarchy.

Of course, your decision is your own.