Items that are purchased within the secure boarding area before boarding a flight are to be used only on the current flight. If you need to leave the secure area and re-enter into the checkpoint, items that weigh more than 3 ounces and not in a zip-top bag will not be allowed on the airplane.

All aerosols, gels and liquids were banned on August 10 after a potential terrorist plot. This change was intended to better security with the new found knowledge associated with risks of these items.

Sharp object are prohibited when passing through airport security; they must be placed in checked luggage and wrapped security so not to cause harm to anyone or anything. Some such items include box cutters, ice picks, razors, scissors and swords.

Certain accessories or clothing will stop someone at a security checkpoint. It is important to avoid wearing items that contain metal. Some jewelry to avoid can include pins, bracelets, watches, rings, necklaces, earrings, lanyards, cuff links and body piercings. Items that contain metal and may cause delay may include hair barrettes, belt buckles, loose change, pagers, phones and under-wire bras.

It is a good idea to put all jackets and coats in your luggage when possible. These items must pass through an x-ray for inspection. These items include heavy coats, suit jackets, blazers, sport coats and trench coats. If a jacket or coat is worn up to the checkpoint, it will need to be put in a carry-on bag or put in the pass-through bin that is provided at checkpoint.

While staying at an all inclusive resort, many of the services which would normally require you to leave the resort are included on the resort grounds. One flat fee is paid to the all inclusive resort which covers the cost of the airline tickets, the hotel room, the cost of food and drinks, and the cost of vacation activities. Many beautiful all inclusive island resorts only charge around $2,000 for a week long stay which includes the cost of airline tickets, the stay at the hotel, the cost of food and drink, and activities. This allows the visitor to truly enjoy all of the amenities and relaxation of the vacation without thinking about money or pulling out a wallet.

From the time the visitor boards the plane, to the time they get off the plane on a return trip home, money does not have to be thought about because everything is paid for at once. One of the best aspects of all inclusive vacations is that during the stay, you will never have to leave the resort to get a meal. Many all inclusive resorts have several different restaurant locations within the resort which offer three meals a day and unlimited buffet choices. This offers the guest an even more diverse selection of foods to choose from than a typical restaurant. Not only do these restaurants serve meals but also drinks as well, such as juices, teas, sodas, beers, and wines. In addition to restaurants, many all inclusive resorts also have bars on the resort grounds for people 21 and up. Because the eateries and bars are located on the resort grounds, this also eliminates the need to travel for meals, negating the need to find and pay for transportation like cabs or rental cars. In fact, all inclusive resorts make it possible to walk to and from the restaurant and hotel room for meals.

Keep in mind that even all inclusive does not typically include tips and you will likely need to tip the staff for every day you are at the resort.

On an Alaska cruise I would suggest you take clothing for summer as well as inclement weather. It can get cold off the edge of a glacier. Bring clothing you can layer, like t-shirts, sweaters, light jackets or vests, and rain wear. Also bring more than one pair of comfortable shoes too, in case you are adventurous and choose to take an excursion into the beautiful wild of America’s northernmost state. It is important to consider that the weather may go from toasty warm to brisk when traveling up the coastline.

If you prefer warmer fare, cruise ships can take you to the Bahamas or to the West or East coast of Mexico. Bring your bathing suit for a little sunning on the deck or on the beach once you reach your destination. Also bring rain wear. I would suggest, since the tropics are known for hurricanes, that you prepare yourself for the potential to seek alternative transportation. Cruise ships will not travel through a hurricane for obvious reasons and you will want to be safely away from the target zones.

All cruises, whether they be cool and crisp or warm and breezy, should include many of the following items. You should bring formal wear, or at least dressy wear for evening meals. Many cruise lines have dress code requirements for dinner and if you are fortunate enough to be invited to the Captain’s table you would be expected to kick up your appearance more than a notch. Of course bring a camera and extra batteries, insect repellent, sunblock, binoculars, lip moisturizer, and hat. These items will ensure a memorable trip. If your cruise takes you to international locations you will also need to have a passport and your identification.

As with any trip away from home security is a must. Ensure that your valuables remain in your possession by securing those you must bring, like cameras, and leaving your extremely valuable items like precious jewelry, at home. It would be a shame to lose those items while trying to relax and enjoy your time away from the daily grind.

• Chicago to Vegas $219
• LA to Hawaii $319
• LA to Orlando $219
• Dallas to NYC $229

In some cases these deals are half of what these flights cost a few years ago. And the crazy thing is these are only 2 week ahead bookings.   So don’t waste anytime, book your flights now while they are at rock bottom prices becuase you can be sure they will go back up as the economy rebounds and people begin to travel again.