Trip prep vault

TSA carry-on rules

Liquids in containers ≤3.4 oz, all in a single quart bag. Electronics larger than a phone out of the bag at standard lanes — TSA PreCheck members keep them in. No firearms in carry-on; declared and unloaded in checked is permitted with airline policy.

REAL ID

Effective May 7, 2025: a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, US passport, passport card, or military ID is required to board any commercial flight in the US. A standard state driver's license without the star marking will not be accepted.

ESTA & visa-on-arrival

Visa Waiver Program (39 countries) travelers entering the US need an ESTA approved in advance — typical processing ≤72 hours. US passport holders get visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to ~180 destinations; check the country's official entry page before you book.

Layover survival

• Minimum connection time: ≥45 min domestic, ≥90 min international, ≥3 hr if you change terminals at FRA / LHR / CDG.
• Self-transfer (two separate tickets): leave ≥3 hr buffer. The airline owes you nothing if you miss the second leg.
• Airside lounges are bookable per-visit on Priority Pass or LoungeBuddy — useful on long layovers.

Jet-lag tips

• Shift sleep ±1 hour per day starting 3 days before departure.
• Hydrate aggressively in-flight; skip the second drink.
• On arrival, sunlight in the morning for eastbound trips; sunlight late afternoon for westbound.