Air Travelers: Forget Cheese, Fruitcake

Dec. 23 -- With the national security advisory alert level at orange and Christmas and New Years just days away, millions of holiday travelers across the country face some tough decisions, and tight security.

The holiday season is a time of increased domestic travel, with travel spiking an estimated 25 percent during this time. Dana Dickey, senior editor of Conde Nast Traveler, says it appears that most people are not canceling their trips as a result of the terror alert. Many people consider this to be their big vacation of the year.

But with security tightened, it is best to pack your suitcase carefully. Do not bring along cheese — which has been prohibited for some time, or fruitcake, a new item that security officials will not allow on planes.

"It's because both of these foods have the same density as that of a bomb," Dickey said. "Just be sure you don't bring it in your checked or carry-on luggage."

The Transportation Security Administration says metal items should be placed in carry-on luggage, and laptops, cases and coats should be removed before going through security.

You should place identification labels in or on your laptop and bags. Check pockets and remove all metal.

Dickey also has these suggestions:

Bring a well-organized plastic case, in which you can put all your documents. Always bring your identification with you, wherever you go.

Wear as little metal as possible. Avoid wearing jewelry, spiked shoes, and don't carry a lot of change.

Don't have messy bags. Have them neatly packed. The key is to allow the security people quick and easy access to your belongings.

Wear sneakers. Unlike shoes, you can take them off much easier, and unlike some shoes, they do not have a metal spike in them to set off the metal detector.