Times of the Islands Spring 2021

is easier to break open. Yet fresh eggs are on the okay
list. You can carry on a home-baked pie, but not a container
of piecrust filling. Soft cheeses are forbidden, but
hard cheeses are allowed. Don’t count on an agent knowing
the difference, though. Cheryl Coffin was stopped for
a wedge of Parmesan (hard and grateable) and got it to
North Caicos only after explaining the location of North
and her passion (no, NEED) for good Parm.
Powder power
“Powder-like substances greater than 12 oz./350 ml must
be placed in a separate bin for x-ray screening,” states the
TSA website. This does not mean they will come through
the other side of the line with you. Many travelers have
been relieved of baby powder, containers other than
individual packs of artificial sweetener and DampRid, a
moisture-absorbing product. Check ‘em, everyone!
Are you a bit confused by all this? You can find a lot
of info at www.tsa.gov, or put a question to www.facebook.com/AskTSA.
But even if one scrupulously follows
the regulations, there’s no telling what will happen at the
checkpoint, where logic, science and common sense have
little pull. As you pack your carry-on bag, remember that
the best thing to bring with you is a sense of humor. a
Mattel’s Magic 8-Ball is a definite no-no at a TSA checkpoint, even
though its liquid (alcohol and dye) is likely within the 3.4-ounce limit
and it is sealed within the plastic.
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