A question I am asked frequently; “Do you feel safe travelling to destinations such as New York City and Europe?” My answer is always “Yes”.
Having flown for over 30 years much has changed during this time. From the number of flights, number of destinations, vacation packages…..to the number of people whom travel both professionally and personally. We have watched airports grow into mega centres with numerous terminals, the number of services available is tremendous.
Over this time frame has also come many changes to security measures throughout the world. As the circumstances and devastation of 9-11 changed the ways of thinking for governments and lawmakers whom keep us all safe, has come many changes over the time that has elapsed with regards to security and documentation requirements. Borders between Canada and the United States simply required ID such as driver’s license or birth certificates, however, the aftermath of events such as 9-11 saw changes develop where a passport was required to travel between these two neighbouring nations. Over time, there has been upgrades and changes with the introduction of the Nexus card and pre-screening for those that travel frequently over this border. As well to this is the screening by US Customs officials prior to access to boarding US bound flights done at Canadian Airports. With increased measures along with the growth of travelers as well, has brought with it the dreaded long ques we wait in to get through security and make our way to the gate at which to board our flight. All of this a far cry from simply showing your birth certificate, but I ask “How bad is this really?” As I’ve traveled on US bound flights out of Canada, you hear people complaining about the lines and having to do customs before reaching their destination. Yes these lines may be long, and sometimes tiresome but if we only stop to think – if you are flying into a major US centre where numerous US bound flights per day are landing every day – with hundreds of passengers, would you rather stand in those lines??? Drawing from experience, a flight I took from Amsterdam on return to Canada was on a US carrier and we therefore stopped on US soil first. So as we deplaned in Philadelphia, we stood in an extremely long line with hundreds of others from multiple flights all to do the same, clear security and claim our baggage to relocate it for a connecting flight. After this very long line up, we then had to proceed to Customs and once again, stood in a queuing line up with all non-American citizens whom were connecting to other flights or Philadelphia was there destination. As my son said, “This is the same as being herded like cattle!” I had to agree with him……but what are the potential alternatives to having a lackadaisical system!
So yes security is more intense, there are longer lineups due to numerous factors, as previously mentioned but it is up to us, the travel consumers, to do our part to ensure promptness and ease of maneuvering the system. Be pro-active and have your baggage packed appropriately including your carry-on items as per TSA regulations (https://www.tsa.gov/ ) . Have your coats, belts, jewelry, coins/keys, electronic devices, liquids, etc on the ready to place in the bins to speed up those lines. But first and foremost – have a look in your bags while packing them to make sure that there are no items in pockets that will slow down the process and in all likely hood be confiscated! Know your travel itinerary and location of where you will be staying in case you are asked. The more you are aware of your surroundings and items that you carry with you the faster “your turn” will be with the customs or security officers. If we all show respect for follow travelers, customs & security officials, it will make our journey less stressful! Know not only your responsibilities, but your rights as a travel consumer.
If your travels take you outside of Canada, be aware of the Customs regulations for items brought back into Canada, this too will save you a lot of hassle and stress. The same advice goes for knowing the regulations of the country which you are entering and be prepared. Simply the two “P’s” (Prepared & Patient) will see you through a smooth transition with security and customs officials. Let’s be realistic the less time we spend in the airport upon arrival – the more time you have to spend at the destination….which is the purpose of your travels to begin with!!
All of these checks and balances are in place to protect the travel consumer as well as all those who are employed in air travel industry. Ensuring that you get from point A to point B in a safe & secure, Relaxing Manner starts with us, the traveler, ensure that you check for any updates or changes to your flight itinerary, check in on-line if possible 24 hrs before your fight is due to leave. Arrive at the airport in the allotted time frame indicated by the airline to ensure that you are and your baggage are checked in appropriately with your boarding pass in hand! Head to security giving yourself and fellow travelers ample time in case there are lineups.
The more prepared you are, the less stress will occur throughout this process. Have a good mindset – nothing is perfect and you may experience glitches – keeping yourself calm and collected will reduce stress thus allowing for situations to be handled with clarity and ease.
Yours in Travel,
Kathy M. Blois
Kathy M. Blois, Owner/Operator
Wanderlust Excursions