T.F. Green Airport offers holiday travel tips

WARWICK, R.I. -- With next week's Thanksgiving holiday prompting a surge in air travel, T.F. Green Airport is offering tips to make getting through the airport easier and less stressful.

Airlines report higher than normal passenger volume will begin Tuesday and carry through to the following Sunday. During that period, travelers are advised to allow extra time to navigate parking, check-in and security screening. Early arrival is especially important during the peak times of the day, 6 to 9 a.m. and 2 to 6 p.m.

Any liquids carried onto the plane must be in containers three ounces or smaller, with all containers in a one-quart, clear, zip-top bag. One bag is allowed per traveler.

Government-issued photo IDs are required for checking in at the ticket counter and for passing the security checkpoint, where a boarding pass is also needed.

Travelers should not over-pack in the event security screeners need to open their bags. Presents should remain unwrapped for the same reason. Film should be packed in carry-on bags because the equipment that screens checked baggage can ruin undeveloped film. Passengers should review the Transportation Security Administration Web site for lists of items that are not allowed on planes and for other travel tips.

To reduce waiting time at the security checkpoint, passengers should remove coats and other outer clothing, shoes and metal objects they are carrying before reaching the checkpoint. These belongings can be packed in carry-on luggage or placed in bins provided for passing through the x-ray machine.

Especially if the weather is bad, travelers and people meeting flights are urged to check the airport's Web site for updated flight information.