What We've Learned

· To prevent leaks in checked luggage, pack liquid and gel products in resealable freezer bags. Use leak-proof bottles for shampoo and lotion (leave room at the top of bottles for expansion). Pack bubble wrap to cushion wine or other liquid souvenirs, like olive oil.

At the Airport

· More than ever, don't check bags if you can avoid it. This lets you sail right from your taxi to the security line clutching your preprinted boarding pass, with no stop -- and wait -- to hand over your luggage. Carrying on also gives you the chance to fly standby on earlier flights.

· If you have to check bags, check them at the curb . The lines can be shorter out there. Doesn't work for international flights, though.

· Women traveling through airports that use the new "puffer" bomb detection devices should consider wearing pants and a close-fitting top . Skirts and loose-fitting shirts tend to fly up in the breeze.

· Dress down. We would never have stooped to flipflops at the airport in the old days, but their convenience in the security line outweighs the horror we know they cause our mothers.

· Since you never know when you might get stranded, travel with a supply of food, such as power bars, nuts, trail mix, baby carrots or cereal. Take an empty water bottle that can be filled up on the plane (but not from the lavatory sink).

· If a flight is delayed or canceled, imediately call the airline from your cell phone for alternative options. This will spare you from having to fight the crowds for the attention of the desk person. Stand ready with your cell phone to call your airline to find out about availability on later flights if it begins to appear that you might not get through the line in time to make your flight.

· Invest in an iPod. You can pack a lot of distractions in it.

· Be genuinely polite to everyone, from security personnel to flight attendants. The lines are not their fault.

In the Air

· Really pay attention to the flight attendant when he or she gives the security briefing.

· Don't be afraid to ask for more water if you need it, since you had to toss what you had at the gate.

· To combat dry airplane air in the absence of hand lotion, use premoistened towelettes or bar forms of lotion. One source: the company Lush (888-733-5874, http://www.lush.com/ ), which has a Georgetown store.