With over 2.1 million Americans planning to fly over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period, AAA encourages all members to review the latest airport security screening procedures and airline policies regarding carry on and checked luggage to ensure a problem-free trip.

"There has been a lot of negative media coverage on the full body scans and pat downs as a result of the new screening procedures," said Glen MacDonell, director, AAA Travel Programs & Alliances. "A lot of confusion and frustration can be avoided by making sure that flyers are 'travel ready' and know what to expect when they arrive at the airport."

AAA's Flyer Tips to be "Travel Ready:"

• Review your airline's policies for check in and carry-on luggage and fees.
• Review the latest TSA Airport Screening Procedures (click here for more information).
• Pack appropriately; taking what is needed, but make sure you can handle your    luggage little or no help.
• Pack gifts, but wrap them when you reach your destinations (pre shipping of gifts is encouraged)
• Use you airline's online check-in tools to print your boarding passes at home prior to leaving for the airport
• Arrive early for your flight as lines are expected to be longer during the busy holiday period
• With your pre-printed boarding passes in hand, use airport's sky cap service (if available) to check your luggage.
• For carry on items, make sure all liquids fit in a clear, plastic one quart bag. Pack bag in an outside pocket for easy retrieval.
• While waiting in line at security, place pocket change, pens, belts, watches and large jewelry in an outside pocket of your carry-on bag.
• Place shoes directly on the security scanner belt.
• Laptop computers should be placed alone in a plastic bin when you pass through security, placing coats and other items in a separate bin.
• Be patient. 

"I had my first full body scan while traveling this week," MacDonell added. "It was different and took a few seconds longer than the prior process, but it wasn't a big deal."

AAA will be surveying members over the next few weeks to gauge their experiences with the new airport screening procedures and assess whether it may impact their travel plans this holiday season. When complete, the results of the survey will be shared with club travel and public relations contacts.