In an era of heightened security awareness and with the recently adjusted total ban on liquids, gels and aerosols from the Transportation Security Administration it is more important than ever to be a savvy and prepared traveler who can efficiently navigate airport security checkpoints.

In this spirit of travel preparedness, Travelers Advantage has developed a travelers checklist 10 convenient tips to help you smoothly move through airport security and get on with your trip. Our aim is to help people move more efficiently through airport security by gaining a better understanding of what they can do to speed the process, said Leslie Downey, director of communication for Travelers Advantage and TravelersAdvantage.com.Through our growing partnership with the TSA and Department of Homeland Security, we are developing more steps toward keeping air travel safe, while getting you on your way as quickly as possible.

The TSA adjusted its total ban on liquids, gels and aerosols, with two significant changes: travelers will be allowed to carry travel-size toiletries (3 ounce or less) that fit comfortably in a one quart size, clear plastic, zip top bag through security checkpoints. Travelers may also bring items, including beverages, purchased in the secure, boarding area on board the aircraft.

It is unlikely that further adjustments to the ban on liquids, gels and aerosols will be made in the near future. The U.S. Homeland Security threat level for aviation remains at Orange, or high, and will not change at this time. TSA first implemented the ban on all liquids, gels and aerosols on August 10, after U.K. officials uncovered a terrorist plot involving transatlantic flights bound for the United States.

In this era of heightened airport security, it is important for travelers to understand the regulations for security checkpoints, Downey said. By packing smart, you can move more quickly through the airport, reduce stress and get on with your trip.

The 10 Travelers Advantage tips for smooth sailing through airport security are:

  1. Check the Permitted and Prohibited Items list on the TSA web site.
  2. As you head toward the security area, take a deep breath and remain calm. Check and be sure you have your boarding pass and a government-issued photo identification card ready for security personnel.
  3. Place valuables (jewelry, laptop computers and cash) only in carry on baggage.
  4. Before you get to the screening checkpoint, place your mobile phones, keys, loose change, money clips, PDAs, lighters, and metal hair accessories in your carry on bag.
  5. At the screening station, remove your laptop from its case and send it through the X ray machine in its own plastic tray. Do not forget to label your laptop computer with your name, address and telephone number. These are one of the most frequently forgotten items at screening checkpoints.
  6. Store all undeveloped film and cameras containing film in your carry on baggage. Ask for a hand inspection if you want to ensure that the X ray machine does not damage your film.
  7. If you are bringing a gift to friends or relatives, wrap it after you arrive at your destination. Otherwise, you might have to unwrap it to pass through security even if it is in checked luggage.
  8. Avoid carrying bottles of liquid through the screening checkpoint.
  9. Take your time unpacking and repacking your belongings or you may leave your laptop, keys, or wallet behind.
  10. Be prepared to remove your shoes and belt because many contain small pieces of metal.