Rourke's Random Musings

Earlier this week I flew for the first time since the new TSA restrictions went into place.

The fellow sitting next to me had carried his bags on. He explained, in a matter of fact way, that he’d asked his secretary make 43 copies of his toiletries kit and mail those 43 copies to all of his company’s global offices. His travel always takes him to the local office first, so this was the perfect plan. How nice for him.

At Jimmy’s suggestion, I had also carried my bags on with me. In my case, it meant I had a nearly empty toiletries kit that included Jen’s antiperspirant since mine was a gel. I had shaved on Monday and was only gone for a day, so this worked out, but I need to find some solid toiletries I can actually carry on.

Toothpaste is easy. I can’t imagine a hotel that doesn’t stock some. When I checked in on Monday night I simply asked for toothpaste as I was checking in and it didn’t even slow me down. I bookmarked a couple of sites that carry tooth powder for those that don’t want to rely on hotels. I think I’m just going to carry a few Brush Ups and breath strips just in case.

Antiperspirant isn’t a big deal; there’s a wide selection available. I’m perfectly willing to use the hotel’s shampoo, conditioner, and soap. If you aren’t then you should check out Lush, as they have a selection of solid shampoo and conditioner.

Shaving is going to be a problem. I’ve ordered some shaving soap to use in place of shaving gel and an alum block to use in place of after shave gel. I don’t know how well that’s going to work out. If it doesn’t work out then I’ll probably buy a new electric shaver and use that while traveling.

Hair gel isn’t an issue for me, though it will be for some folks. There’s actually a solid alternative.

I also bookmarked some articles and threads that address other liquid/gel replacement needs. Particularly helpful are this USA Today article and this Flyertalk thread.

All in all, flying under the new restrictions wasn’t as bad as I had expected it to be. Planes are boarding faster since fewer people are carrying things on. The security line for elite flyers is no longer than it was before. The check in process takes longer if you have bags to check, but seems even shorter than before if you’re not checking anything. As long as you carry your bags on, it really isn’t a big deal.