I'm trying to figure out how to bring my camera bag, my laptop, and an overnight bag without having to check anything.

the empty water bottle trick I'd just learned totally worked

You fill from the tap on the other side? I have a tapwater aversion, grown from nasty-tasting LA water.

I don't put anything in my pockets on me, just in jacket pockets or my purse. My shoes were a bit complex to get on and off, but I unbuckled them beforehand so I didn't hold up anyone in line. And no belt.

Hell, I don't think I even removed my liquids baggie from my carry on on the way on. It was mega-casual. Bad me.

I once inadvertantly smuggled 8 nail clippers to Chicago.

(There was a hole in the bottom of my pocketbook, and I was convinced that my roommate was "borrowing" them.)

I had a coworker that managed to get two laptops through with no power-on test, plus a boning knife. This was pre-9/11, but still scary.

For Teppy and other word people, from Lolcats

[link]

Is this when I mention my friend's 5 year old who had filled her pockets with clothes pins prior to getting on a flight without her mother's knowledge?

I have never flown with a laptop before - does it need to be on and in the bin or just in the bin?

Also, if I am checking luggage with my toiletries in it, do those need to be in a quart bag or no?

It's been about 4 years since I've flown (!!!!) What other wonkiness can I expect?

It's been about 4 years since I've flown (!!!!) What other wonkiness can I expect?

You have to pay $20 more for an "inside the airplane" seat.

And when the bicycle-style pedals appear--Peddle for your life!

I like the wind in my hair. I'll take the wing.

And I'd better get to work on my spin classes.