Check the rules before you pack.

Work backwards, not from a rule of thumb. The calculator adds travel, parking, bag drop, security queue, the walk to the gate, boarding starting before departure, and a buffer. A typical domestic trip with a checked bag comes to about 3.3 hours before departure; carry-on only at a quiet time is 2.1; an international flight in a holiday period can reach 5.2.

It depends on your airport, which is the honest answer. The widely used limit is small containers in a single transparent bag, with gels, creams, pastes and aerosols counting — as do foods like yoghurt, soft cheese and spreads. Some airports with newer scanners have relaxed it and many haven't, so check your departure airport's own guidance, and your return airport's too, since they can differ.

Power banks, spare lithium batteries and e-cigarettes must travel in the cabin, never in the hold — it's a fire safety rule, and airlines also cap capacity and quantity. Keep medication, documents, valuables and a change of clothes in the cabin too, in case checked luggage is delayed.

It depends how often you fly, and it won't help this trip if you're leaving soon — applications typically involve background checks and an in-person appointment, and can take weeks or months. Check whether a credit card or airline programme reimburses the fee, and whether your airport participates at all. For a trip that's imminent, packing well and arriving earlier is what actually helps.

Request assistance in advance from both the airline and the airport — most have a process, and many security authorities run a dedicated support line for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. Mention implants and devices to the officer, carry documentation for medicines where you can, and know that you can ask for alternative screening such as a private pat-down.