Tag Archives: safety

When traveling you want to lose yourself in the sights while not losing your valuables. The idea is to enjoy your destination and not be worried about theft, losing things, or being victimized by scam artists. In many foreign cultures, the thieves have a point of view of “shame on you” the victim, for making it easy for them to steal your valuables. They believe it is up to you to guard your gear, if you don’t it’s OK to steal it. Understanding this philosophical point of view, here’s our suggestion for the top travel security items you can’t leave home without.

Favorite Travel Safety Gadgets

1. TSA Luggage Locks

TSA stands for the Transportation Security Administration, an agency of the US Department of homeland security. A TSA luggage lock allows you to lock your luggage and it allows the TSA to inspect it by opening the lock with a well-guarded proprietary tool. When the TSA is finished inspecting your luggage, they re-close the lock to protect your baggage and contents. There are various styles of TSA locks, you are bound to find one that works for you.

2. Travel Cable Lock

Most travelers don’t think about how handy a travel cable lock is, here are a few examples of when a small simple cable with a padlock can give you peace of mind. Use a cable with a lock to lock several pieces of luggage together in a luggage room or storage, or connect your luggage to your seat while you are sleeping on a train or bus are at the airport waiting for the next connecting flight. If you think the security of your hotel room is sketchy tether your locked bag to a piece of furniture. Another place where a cable lock comes in handy is foiling thieves who target rental cars. Place your bag in the trunk and connect it to the vehicle.

3. Money Belt or Hidden Body Pouch

Money belts now come in many sizes and styles, with the most popular being an underclothing style to hold and hide your passport, money and credit cards. There are neck pouch styles and even leg strap styles which are all are great ways to protect your belongings. The best money belts aren’t belts that you use on your pants, they are meant to be worn under your clothing next to your skin with cut-proof waist straps and built-in RFID blocking technology too. If you keep these money belts under your clothing, there is virtually no way you can be pick-pocketed. We recommend that you also use a wallet with a small amount of money in it to keep your money belt for your big money, passport, and credit cards. This is a smart travel accessory.

4. Portable and Packable Travel Safe

These new styles of safes are portable and package so you can secure your valuables including larger camera gear and a laptop almost anywhere you go. The safes are made of cut-proof and puncture-proof material. They fold up or lay flat in your luggage. Because they are portable you can use in a hotel, on a train, in a vehicle and even by a pool or beach. After your trip, you can continue to use them in your, home, dorm room or office.

If you have never fallen victim to a pickpocket, you are lucky – and to tell you the truth – if you are just a little street smart, you may never in your lifetime. However, pickpockets come in a variety of levels of expertise from the expert to the opportunist. Falling victim to either one and losing your credit cards, as well as your passport and currency or phone can really put a crimp on your vacation abroad. Even seasoned travelers can fall victim to a distraction and be pickpocketed. See how easily you can be distracted by one thief while an accomplice relieves you of your valuables.

Anti-theft travel bag with locking zippers keeps hands out and valuables inside.

Learn from these prevention tips provided by a victim.

5 TIPS From a Victim of a Pickpocket

Here are five tips that the victim’s wife said she and her husband from now on will always follow.

1. I’ll leave all non-essential cards and documents at home.

I will thoroughly empty out my wallet before I leave home, but I could have done a better job. There was no reason for me to carry my driver’s license abroad, for example, and now I’m still waiting on a replacement! (Ahem, New York State DMV.) Hint keep images of ID on your password-protected phone.

2. I won’t withdraw large sums of cash at once from an ATM.

I’ve always withdrawn wads of foreign currency at a time under the theory that I was keeping ATM fees to a minimum. I found out it’s not worth the risk; next time, I’ll pay the five dollars!

3. I’ll divide my cash and credit cards into at least two stashes.

I generally try to be good about carrying half of my funds in a money belt and half in a wallet or secure pocket, but from now on, I will always do that.
If half gets stolen, at least I’ll have backup cards.

4. I’ll remember that I brought that zippered purse or travel bag for a reason and will always engage the zippers, and lock them down with the anti-theft clasp.

These are our favorite anti-theft handbags that have built-in pickpocket prevention features.

5. I will use an anti-theft travel bag to hold all valuables including my phone, and never use my back pocket ever to hold anything I don’t want to lose.

6. ( Bonus tip) I will travel with the phone numbers of my credit-card companies( hint keep them in your phone contacts).

As I was scrambling to find the numbers on the Internet, I couldn’t help thinking that having them on hand would have saved a lot of time during post-pickpocket cleanup.

Bonus Story

The following video is of a woman who was targeted by a pickpocket while she was riding on the Paris Metro and had her wallet stolen from her purse. Pay close attention to the portion of the video where the woman talks about her purse.

Be proactive before you travel and plan how you will protect your valuables in public places. One of the best ways you can thwart the actions of a pickpocket is to use a security purse or travel bag that has built-in anti-theft features. Have peace of mind and enjoy the sights knowing your gear is secure with an anti-theft bag.

Travel Insurance — coverage for health-related issues you encounter while out of the country

Travel medical insurance protects people. This type of insurance protects travelers from unforeseen health issues that may arise while they’re traveling abroad. This includes sickness, injuries, and accidents. Often these plans will cover medical treatment and emergency evacuation, accidental death repatriation, etc. Many companies will assist with finding a hospital via their customer help desk. One key aspect to understand is that you will usually have to pay for the medical costs and the insurance company will then reimburse you. Hint: call your credit card companies and ask for a limit increase before you go.

Medical
Accidents & Evacuation
24/7 Worldwide Assistance

Medical

Check your health insurance before hitting the road. Many travelers assume that their health insurance will cover them for any medical service, but this is not the case. Many health plans today are based on in-network- only coverage. Does your plan only cover illness and accidents that occur domestically?

Accidents & Evacuation

There is no telling when an accident (physically or geographically) can occur. With accidents and evacuation insurance, you can receive the quick medical attention you need in the event of a national or life-threatening emergency and evacuation back to your homeland.

Trip Insurance — protects you from financial loss due to trip related issues

Trip insurance protects purchases. This type of insurance usually protects travelers against financial losses due to unexpected situations that might include trip cancellation, interruption, or delay; missed flight connections; or lost baggage. Financial losses typically are transportation costs, hotel costs, etc. Get your trip insurance when you book your flight, don’t wait, if you have to cancel your trip then the money you’ve already paid will be covered according to the terms of the policy you select.

Trip Cancellation
Trip Interruption
Damaged, Delayed or Lost Baggage
24/7 Worldwide Assistance

Trip Cancellations

The most common type of travel insurance bought is trip cancellation insurance that can usually be bought for an additional price when booking your upcoming flight or cruise Travel insurance will either fully or partially reimburse you supposing your flight gets canceled or you have an emergency causing you to cancel your trip. Make sure you understand ahead of time how a policy defines a personal emergency.

Trip Interruption

Trip interruption coverage is similar to trip cancellation coverage. However, the policies offer travelers reimbursement of their pre-paid, non-refundable expenses when you unexpectedly need to cut your travels short.

Damaged, Delayed or Lost Baggage

There’s nothing more upsetting than starting off your trip with damaged, delayed or lost baggage. Unfortunately, it is quite a hassle to get together when such situation occurs, but insurance can reimburse you for your personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged as well as give you extra money to buy your necessities if your baggage is delayed.

Insurance Package Plans

Most insurance companies that provide travel plans offer different types of “Package Plans.” A package plan is created based on your possible outcomes based on your destination and preference. Package plans are perfect for families, friends traveling together, and groups because they bundle the two types together.

Bundled Coverage Typically Includes

Trip cancellations for specific reasons like accidents illnesses, injuries, job loss, military duty, natural disasters, and more.
Trip interruptions like delays that could include extra lodging and transportation.
Dental and medical expenses due to an accident or illness.
Emergency medical/political evacuation coverage in case you cannot obtain proper medical care in your location.
Coverage for lost, stolen, delayed and destroyed luggage.
Cancellations at any time.
Customer service help from a trained travel specialist.

24/7 Assistance

The majority of travel insurances provide their clients with 24/7 assistance in case of all types of emergency and needs.

They can assist you with:

Help with any language barriers
Lost baggage search and replacement assistance
Lost passport or travel documents assistance
Medical transportation to and from the hospital
Location of the best hospital near you
Transportation home
Identity Theft

Valuable Tip: Check with your home insurance, health insurance carrier and credit card company you used to purchase your flights, book your hotels, rental car or cruise with about what they cover before buying additional insurance. Doing this could save you money so you don’t buy duplicate coverage.

A couple of the most reputable travel insurance companies are:

Take matters into your hands before it’s too late! You can save a lot of money and time signing up for travel insurance.

Anti-Theft Classic Small Convertible Backpack

Pickpocketing and RFID digital ID theft are two ongoing problems affecting tourists around the world. San Francisco shows an increase in the numbers of pickpocketing crimes. Meanwhile, one thief at Coachella allegedly pickpocketed more than 100 phones at the music festival. Thieves have even been caught on video pickpocketing victims, who fall asleep on public transportation or subways. The bottom line is you can be a victim anywhere there are crowds.

When traveling overseas, Independent.co.uk reports pickpocketing is a major issue in the crowded tourist locations of Barcelona, Rome, Prague, Madrid, Paris, Florence, Buenos Aires, Amsterdam, Athens, and Hanoi.

While being pickpocketed is a crisis when you discover your wallet has been stolen, most people don’t report pickpocketing to the local police because there’s nothing they can do to investigate for a lengthy period of time. Most people don’t even bother with filing a police report because it’s a lower priority crime. Instead, the victim cancels his or her credit cards immediately and hopes his or her identity doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. The thieves know this and continue to victimized tourists.

Now, digital identity thieves are using RFID scanners and skimmers in public places to steal your credit card information without you knowing until your identity has been stolen and the financial damage is done. It only takes a few seconds to steal your information with a digital scanner or skimmer held close to your body. Identity fraud hit a record number of Americans in 2016. While your credit card may provide limited protection from fraud, it’s a fact that debit card holders have even less protection against theft because a bank account can be depleted in minutes. Passports now contain all your personal information on a RFID chip, so they can transmit your personal information too. For peace of mind when you travel to popular destinations protect your RFID chipped cards and passport, and protect your identity.

Travel Tips to Prevent Pickpocketing

It’s always important to take precautions to protect your identity, especially when you travel. Here are tips that will help you safeguard your credit cards, wallet, and digital identity from pickpockets.

Protect your passport, credit cards and identity with RFID blocking travel gear.
Only carry zippered purses; better yet upgrade to a handbag with an anti-theft locking zipper.
Limit the number of valuables in your handbag or backpack, dividing them up if you can.
Do not put your wallet into your back pocket, also known as the “sucker pocket” to pickpockets and thieves.
Limit yourself to carry only one credit card in your wallet.
Limit yourself to carry only one ID card or driver’s license in your wallet or handbag.
Limit the amount of cash you carry in your wallet or handbag.
Copy or take photos of your credit cards and passport in case they’re stolen, so you can your cancel credit cards quickly.
When getting cash, check the ATM machine for an illegal skimmer, best to use one found inside a bank.
Hold your belongings in front of you in crowded tourist areas, this includes public transportation and even churches.
Be aware of your surroundings or if someone is following you. Stop, step into a store, or turn around to confirm your suspicions.

Anti-Theft Travel Products to Prevent Pickpocketing or Digital ID Theft

There are also several products that help prevent you from becoming a victim of pickpocketing or ID theft while traveling.

Anti-Theft Hidden Money Travel Belt.RFID Blocking Front Pocket Wallet.

Anti-Theft RFID Hidden Travel Wallet.

RFID Blocking Security Waistpack.Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Wallet.

Anti-Theft Handbag with RFID Blocking Pockets, Locking Zippers, and Splash-Proof Straps, such as the Anti-Theft Signature 3-Compartment Cross Body Bag.Anti-Theft Backpack with RFID Protection.

RFID Blocking Credit Card & Passport Sleeves.

Scanner Guard Cards protect your credit cards and driver’s license inside your wallet.

Major national and international initiatives went into effect to heighten the security of ships and ports in 2004. What effect have they had on the safety of cruise passengers ashore? The answer, is probably none directly, though there is an increase in safety within the ports themselves, because of the better fencing, increased surveillance and more intense review of identification documents as passengers and others board the ship. So personal safety as you leave the dock remains with you the traveler. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

Research Your Ports of Call Before Departing
The majority of international ports of call are safe. Local officials want to keep it that way to remain an attractive destination for cruise ships and the tourist dollars they bring. The most common crimes committed against travelers is petty theft (stealing wallets, phones, and bags) pickpocketing and overcharging for goods or services. Violent crimes are rare, however, you should know the areas to avoid, just like you know what areas to avoid at home to minimize becoming a victim.

How to Research Foreign Ports
Before visiting any port, consider checking the U.S. State Department updates and warnings for the country and port visited, as sometimes you can learn some valuable safety, security, and health information. Visit travel.state.gov and search for the county you are visiting. This is probably the most valuable site on the Web for security-conscious travelers.

Do a Google search for current crime trends involving the destination(s) you will be visiting prior to departure. Search terms such as “crime against American tourists [name of specific country here].” While many of the web results may not be from government agencies, and some may not be valid or recent at all, they will give you some guidance on the subject.

Stay on the Beaten Path
Ask your cruise security director, cruise director, or shore excursion manager if they are aware of any crime risks for the areas you plan to explore ashore. This may be really important if you plan on exploring a port or city on your own and not part of the cruise ship’s organized excursions. Best advice, don’t “explore” where you are an isolated tourist. Isolation translates into vulnerability.

Minimize Your Victim Potential
Think about how you are dressed while in-port, especially when visiting ports that have poor surrounding areas. Avoid American logos on your clothes, as well as minimize the amount of expensive looking jewelry you will wear while in port. When it comes to your wallet and purse, “sanitize” them. Remove all the credit and ID cards you don’t need while traveling abroad. Think about if you had to report your wallet or purse stolen to local police, what’s in your wallet/purse now? Make it easy on yourself and clean out un-needed cards and IDs. Use hidden travel wallets, body pouches, antitheft crossbody bags, antitheft purses, and antitheft backpacks and waist packs for peace of mind. When visiting cruise ports, be particularly alert in crowded tourist areas, street fairs, marketplaces, lines at tourist attractions, public transportation, or anywhere else where your wallet, purse or travel bag may be vulnerable to theft. Beware of distraction thieves who work in teams to relieve you of your valuables. Solution -and for peace of mind use travel gear designed to keep your valuables secure on your person.

Travel in Groups
Don’t walk, get in a cab, or go anywhere alone. Go in groups of two or more it reduces your chances of being targeted by criminals.

Stay Sober
Many cruise ports offer restaurants and bars and enjoying that fancy cocktail or additional beer seems like a fun idea, after all, you’re not driving. However, that extra drink could impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to a scam or con artist’s charms.

Use Authorized Tour Companies
Not all local tour companies are out to take advantage of you, however, you’re sure to be in good hands with vetted and reputable tour companies. Companies referred by the cruise line typically cost more but they also provide safe vehicles with licensed drivers and trained guides. The cut-price local guide can be a risk not worth taking on various levels.

Get Travel Health Insurance
Anyone who takes a cruise internationally should consider the purchase of travel medical and evacuation insurance. Obviously, other types of travel insurance could be equally important, especially if you need to cancel your cruise for an emergency before your trip, but travel medical and evacuation insurance could be more important. Why? When you travel outside the United States, most personal medical insurance policies do not provide coverage outside the USA (including most versions of Medicare) and if they do, you will find that you need to abide by certain requirements and approvals for coverage. Additionally, you will have to most always pay the medical and evacuation bills yourself first and then fight for reimbursement.

Everyone loves a flight upgrade, especially when embarking on a long flight. While you won’t get to your destination any faster, the extra seat space, legroom, and food can make flying a much more pleasant experience.

Unfortunately for travelers the gate attendants no longer have the same discretionary power they used to, and upgrading a traveler to business or first class, especially on long flights, costs the airline money even though you might not think so. The cost of business and first-class travel is actually higher than that of economy. The better food and drinks hit the bottom line while now in economy class food has become a revenue source as customers usually have to pay for a snack or meal.

Several ways to get that flight upgrade to first or business class

1. Loyalty Flight Upgrade

Loyalty is the best way and our most suggested way to earn a flight upgrade. Many airlines offer complimentary upgrades to their loyal customers who travel often throughout the year. Points can also be accumulated through their credit card and partner rewards programs and which help their loyal customers earn miles. These miles can be used to purchase upgrades.

If a flight is undersold, airlines sometimes upgrade passengers who are enrolled in their rewards programs for free if they’ve accumulated the required mileage during that year. If you haven’t yet, join the frequent flier programs for the airlines you fly on most.

2. Get an Airline Credit Card

Most airlines offer credit cards that reward you with points based on your purchases. Many also offer a bonus amount just for signing up for the card. Using this type of card helps you accumulate points that you can use for “free” upgrades to business or first class.

3. Pay for The Upgrade

When checking out directly on the airline’s website you will have the opportunity to upgrade to a premium coach seat or first class. You can also ask the gate agent before boarding what the upgrade cost would be. Ask your travel agent because they may have access to preferred seats that aren’t readily available on the airline’s website.

4. Timing

Oversold flights are a great opportunity to score an upgrade. When a flight is oversold, often, gate agents will announce if anyone would like to give up their seat in exchange for another flight. This is the perfect opportunity to ask for an upgrade on your next flight in exchange for giving up your seat. Early morning or flights during peak times are ideal for this situation.

5. Ask for the Upgrade

Always be honest and if it’s a special occasion like a honeymoon, anniversary, or an emergency, arrive early and let the ticket agent and gate agents know if they can they will help to make y our trip more comfortable. Also, if you’ve been inconvenienced by the airline due to delayed or canceled flights, ask for an upgrade as compensation. Lastly, don’t demand an upgrade or be angry with the people who are there to help you.

6. Dress as if You Always Fly First Class

As you know, first impressions count so put a little effort into your wardrobe choice if you think you’re going to ask for an upgrade While you don’t have to wear a suit and tie or suit and heels, you should be dressed as smart casual, that means no torn jeans, dirty flip flops, tank shirts or yoga pants or message T-shirts. Dressing as if you belong in first class gives you an overall more appealing appearance.

7. Arrive Early at the Gate

If there is an empty seat in economy plus, business, or first class still available it may just go to the first one who asks for it. Remember to be courteous and nice to the agent while asking.

Lastly, fly prepared in case you can’t get that last-minute upgrade. Pack a couple of flight comfort items such as your own flight pillow or compact blanket to keep the chill off. A few creature comforts will make your time in economy or coach more pleasant.

Where Photography is Forbidden Other Countries

Photography restrictions in foreign countries often include taking photographs of certain government buildings. It appears that most of the problems arise when the destination you are visiting is having an internal security issue. If you are caught taking photographs/videos of certain locations you could be detained, fined, and have your camera equipment and film confiscated.

General Areas to Avoid Taking Photos in Foreign Countries

Some of the locations travelers have run into trouble taking photos and/or videos are listed below. It’s sound advice to simply skip these locations, do you really the photo that badly to risk having trouble with the police or foreign federal agencies?

Border areas
Scene of a civil disorder or other public disturbance
Police and or military personnel or installations
Industrial structures including harbor, rail, airport facilities

Taking Photos in These Foreign Countries Can be Dangerous

Always check with the consulate and other sources about the protocol of taking pictures in your destination country. Do your homework and understand where photography is forbidden and what is allowed and is culturally customary in the countries you plan on visiting. If unsure, pass on the photo op.

Algeria-Photos of government infrastructure, including airports, military installations, and police, are not allowed.
Netherlands- Amsterdam – The Red Light District has zero-tolerance of photos taken there. Especially any photos that include the windows of a brothel. This zero-tolerance includes photos you may take with your phone. Be forewarned and responsible and don’t take any photos there. Those who have been beaten or had their camera confiscated.

South Korea – Culturally shooting strangers without permission is considered rude. If the photographer does not have the express permission of those who appear in the picture, these photographed individuals can contact authorities or press charges against the photographer under the pretense that their right to privacy is being violated particularly if the photo is going to be posted publicly.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) –Taking photos of military areas, palaces, courts, and government buildings is banned. Typically you need permission before taking pictures of others. Visitors taking forbidden pictures have been jailed and fined about $1350 for illegal photography.

Japan – Some temples and Shinto shrines have banned photography and it appears more are doing so each year. Before you take a picture it is best to ask if it is allowed. Temples are places of worship and some tourists who have forgotten that and have ruined grounds and disturbed those who are there to contemplate or worship in pursuit of the perfect photo.

India – Taj Mahal Photography of the exterior of the most famous building in India is allowed. However, the interior is a tomb and it is disrespectful to shoot photos in there.

China, Nanjing – Located here is the Jiangsu National Security Education Museum. Only Chinese citizens are allowed to enter this spy museum. The museum housed spying devices and papers from 1927. The items are considered too sensitive for foreigners to see. Even Chinese citizens must follow the rule that photography is forbidden and can’t photograph the contents.

England, London – The crown jewels are housed in the Tower of London. All photography of the jewels is strictly forbidden. They are protected by bombproof glass, security guards and over 100 security cameras.

Photography Tips for Foreign Countries

Equipment transportation – What do you need to do to protect your camera and equipment?
Customs consideration – It may be helpful to register your equipment with U.S. Customs before leaving the country. You will receive a receipt verifying that you owned the equipment before departing. Ask at the check-in counter at the airport.
Batteries – Do you have spare batteries? Will you need a power converter for your battery charger? Do you have the correct type of plug for the electrical supply?
Security – What special consideration must you give regarding the security of your equipment?
Cultural Differences – How will the people in the country react to being videotaped? Will you need to ask permission or “pay” to shoot video? Are certain items restricted from being videotaped?
Language – Do you know the basic language to communicate with people when you want to videotape?

IMPORTANT POST 9/11 FILM INFORMATION

One thing you definitely need to take into consideration is the inspection process of at airports post-September 11. Hand-inspection — which averts the risks X-rays pose – may not be available at some airports.

It’s exciting to plan a trip to somewhere you’ve never visited before. However, it can be also a little bit scary and overwhelming if you haven’t flown in a very long time. Times change and so do airports and TSA screening regulations. Read further for a few tips on how to negotiate the airport experience more calmly and easier. Here are ten useful tips that will guarantee you a smooth trip on your way to your next destination!

Preparing for Your Trip

If you’re traveling alone, it’s ideal to pick the seat on the aisle. Sure it’s nice to be seated by the window, but you can skip that whole awkward getting up to go to the bathroom encounter with the passenger next to you if you’re already sitting on the aisle seat.
Experts say the safest seating on-board is the exit aisle in the back of the airplane. It’s the farthest from impact and explosive fuel. (Just in case you were wondering.)
Airlines typically send out check-in reminders 24 hours before your flight departs. It’s important to confirm as soon as possible so that you may get priority in boarding or be put in one of the first passenger boarding groups. This will help to store your carry-on bag closer to your seat. The benefit here is you keep an eye on your belongings and it will be easier to grab your bag when you deplane.
Before traveling email yourself your important bank and credit card contact information. In case you lose your wallet or have your items stolen, you have the bank contact numbers handy.
Make a checklist ahead of time of all the items you need to pack in your carry-on and checked bag. Emphasis on the little things like a portable charger, earphones, and glasses, etc. These are the convenience things you’ll use daily and don’t want to be without. (You’d be surprised how many people forget these small items at home.)
Check the TSA website for regulations regarding what can be carried onboard in your carry-on bag. Do you know the 3-1-1 rule for liquids? And what about shoes and belts? You may have to remove them to go through screening so choose your travel wardrobe wisely like shoes you can slip off and on quickly, pack your lace-ups. So step one check the TSA website for the latest rules before you pack.

At the Airport

Research your destination airport, especially if you’ve never been there. Airports like Dallas, LAX, or JFK can be confusing, and if you’re in a rush to get to a connecting flight, you might be able to get on a Skylink (bus or rail) to your next gate quicker.
No matter what you do make sure you get to the airport at least one hour before your departure time for domestic flights. You never know what kind of delays (like long TSA lines) there could be, so it’s better to be early than late and miss your flight. Contact the airline for their recommendation on what time to arrive.
If you are running late, don’t bother using a kiosk or seeing a check-in agent to get a boarding pass use your smartphone! Check your check-in emails for a scanner code. You can easily show your phone with the scan code and use it as a boarding pass. If you have an iPhone, you can save your boarding pass information into the Passbook/Wallet. If you have an Android, you can save your boarding pass as a photo.
***However it is highly recommended to always have a backup print out of all your travel documents and keep them together in a travel document organizer. What if you lose your phone, or have a dead battery?
When putting your carry-on baggage on the x-ray belt, put your laptop last so that it comes out behind your other items, and with luck, about the same time you walk through the metal detector to pick it. Better yet, have a travel companion clear security first then put your valuables on the belt, and they can keep an eye on your laptop until you have cleared security.
If taking a connecting flight, alert the flight attendant. Long delays can occur in-between flights, and they will usually give passengers with connecting flights priority to get off the plane. This is especially valuable if your seat is towards the back of the plane.

Bonus Tip

*** Most airlines offer a wifi plan! You can research and buy credit before boarding the plane so that you may catch up on emails or entertain yourself during your flight!