Flying

[sherrardk]

Have looked at the government website but just want to check - can I put all liquids (shampoo, Calpol, etc), aerosols (deodorants), etc in the hold?

If we buy any drinks after we have been through security can we just put them our hand luggage?

Also, can the kids use their DS's on the plane?

Thanks, sorry for being a dimwit but want to make sure I have got it right.

[Buenchico]

Hi Sherrardk:

1. Yes you can put all of your liquids in the hold. Aerosols aren't prohibited (unless they contain inflammable liquids, such as lighter fluid) but it may still be inadvisable to take them. The much lower atmospheric pressure at altitude means that the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the can is greatly increased. If the can has any inherent weakness, it will split open, distributing its contents throughout your suitcase.

2. Anything bought after security (including liquids) can be taken on board as long as you still comply with any rules regarding the number of bags you can take on board (and the size of those bags). i.e. if there's a 'one bag' rule, your purchases must be placed inside that bag and not, for example, carried in a separate carrier bag.

3. Electronic devices (other than mobile phones and other devices incorporating radio transmitting equipment) can normally be used on board aircraft, except during take-off and landing.

Chris

[sherrardk]

Thank you - its so long since we've flown and I want to get it right so I don't get stressed and spoil it for the kids (if you see what I mean). Think I will be frazzled enough as it is (what with having to get up at stupid o'clock).

[237SJ]

Yes you can put all your liquids and aerosols in the hold. You can use your electronics (including mobile phones when set on `flight mode)` during the flight but not during take off or landing.

[dundurn]

Since the DS has the potential for wireless communication and doesn't have a specific "flight" mode I would have thought there might be some problems with some flight crews.

[Buenchico]

Further to Dundurn's post . ..

From the Nintendo website:
"Can I use the Nintendo DS onboard aircraft, in hospitals, or in airports if it's not in wireless mode?

Operation of the Nintendo DS when it is NOT in wireless mode, may be allowed on aircraft, in hospitals, and in airports just like any other non-wireless device would be. You will know when your DS is in wireless mode when the Power Indicator LED (green or red) rapidly blinks to indicate that wireless communication is in progress. The Power Indicator LED will blink rapidly when you are in PictoChat, playing any game in multiplayer mode, or downloading a game to another unit.

Observe and follow all regulations and rules regarding the use of wireless devices in locations such as hospitals, airports, or onboard aircraft. In order to comply with airline regulations, do not use PictoChat, or play the multiplayer modes of DS games while on board an airplane. Operation in these locations may interfere with or cause malfunctions of equipment, with resulting injuries to persons or damage to property"

[abstibus]

Sherrard
I put everything possible in the hold, and always use bubble wrap for anything breakable. This is useful on the way back, in case you want to buy yourself any treats.
Be prepared to pay over the odds for any drinks bought airside.