So much has changed about traveling by plane....................

I used to travel by plane a lot. I havn't now in about 20 years and don't intend to anytime soon. When I go back to NY state from Michigan, I take the bus.
It actually takes me about 4 hours less time than is I went by plane because of where I live in each state and routing. Going by bus is not so bad and it's cheap..

CE-

It's been a few years since I flew, but I generally try to get to the airport two hours before flight departure. I just brought a good book to read. At that time I didn't have to check any of my lotions, etc. I didn't even have to take off my shoes. You may want to have on easily removable sandals though just in case, and perhaps just put your tolietries in your handbag so they can check them, just in case. Good luck with your trip.

Namaste-Anora

yup I would put lotions and things like tha tin little bottles and plastic bag and put in liuggage that is going under the plane.
always get there 2 hours early. get ticket and every thing set up with (I go to the Skycap)

Then if ya smoke dont go right to your gate for after you go thru security and that can be a long line.
ya cant get out again and most places now have took out the smoke rooms grrrrrrrrrrr
and then you wait to board the plane I always take a book with me to pass the time.

I have not flown in ages. I feel it is much healthier to drive and less stressful. I would be like you, totally confused.

I miss not taking bottles of water with me through airport security. I have to consider what is in my handbag and make up a transparent bag full of tiny containers. I worry about my toddler sons drinks and catheters getting throught security. It is awful when they ask me to taste his drinks. I look forward to arriving at my destination but spending time at the airport can be bothersome. It can take much longer than it used to.

yes, put all those things in separate plastic c through bags
everyone
sometimes it takes a long time since it gets crowded
also many airlines charge you for ur luggage

Hi celticeagle, my advice is to go where you want to go and enjoy it. Yes, security is much tighter than it was 10 years ago or so but check what the current status is and adhere to the rules. Currently you can not carry liquids or sharp items on board but that should not be a problem. Pack all such necessary items like creams, lotions, nail scissors, files etc. in your check-in case.
Last year in my main holiday I had 14 different flights. Six of them were with airlines banned in Europe because of bad safety records, two of which had no security control whatsoever. On those two flights I was not scanned or searched and nobody asked me what was in my luggage or checked it in any way. At no time with any of the 14 flights was there any problem, delay or inconvenience.
I have just booked this year's holiday for October involving eight flights with five different airlines. In addition to my major holiday each year I fly regularly between Munich and Glasgow which involves two flights in each direction.
Spread your wings and see the world.

I think that the worst change is not being allowed to carry water through check in, they confiscate it at one end and then allow you to buy over priced airport water to carry onto the plane.