Political turmoil and terrorist activities have resulted in tightening of airport security. If you are unaware of rules and regulations you could be detained or delayed inordinately while passing through security checks before boarding the plane.

Here are a few insights:

1. Never pack any banned items in your carry on luggage. Ensure that the luggage is of the right size and weight as outlined by airline regulations.

2. Before you walk through the metal detector empty your pockets and place all items like coins, jewelry, hair clips, tie clips, watches, belts and buckles into the outer pocket for your carry on luggage so that it moves through the x-ray machine and does not cause a din when you walk through.

3. Wear sensible shoes with low heels, slip on shoes are preferable. If you are asked to remove the shoes do so with grace try avoid shoes which have a metal heel arch.

4. Be prepared to switch on your mobile, i-pod, laptop, PDA and so on if asked. Keep them all together. Be sure to switch all electronics off before take off and during landing.

5. As soon as you enter the security area place the lap top and other carry ons on the conveyor belt for checking by x-ray. Ensure that all baggage including your purse has the appropriate tags.

6. Keep a valid photo ID ready along with the boarding pass. If you like you can have a travel wallet with an ID window on one side and a pocket for the boarding pass and luggage stubs on the other.

7. Never carry any banned items. Buy what you need at your destination.

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