By James Pilcher
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Flying this holiday season? Don't lock your luggage.

The Transportation Security Administration Thursday issued new guidelines for travelers headed into the holiday rush, when many airports - including Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International - are expected to begin electronically scanning all checked bags.

The deadline is Dec. 31, but airports that are not close to making the deadline were given some leeway last month by Congress, which said those airports could apply for waivers.

But the Cincinnati airport, the nation's 24th-busiest and the second-largest hub for Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines, won't need a waiver.

According to Terry Burgess, the federal security director at the airport, Cincinnati will meet the deadline, meaning many passengers will have to change the way they pack. This is especially true locally, because the bomb scanning machines will be "behind the scenes" - meaning searches will take place after luggage is checked and federal workers may need to open luggage out of sight of the owner.

TSA spokeswoman Suzanne Luber said the agency would take complaints and possibly issue reimbursement for luggage damaged during a search. The agency says it is working toward providing free disposable locks that could be cut open if necessary, but in the meantime, the TSA advises that travelers use cable or plastic ties to secure their luggage instead of locks.

"We are committed to making the holiday season safe and enjoyable for air travelers," said TSA Director James T. Loy. "Passengers can play a major role by following simple packing guidelines, and by getting to the airport on time."

Here are some packing tips provided by the Transportation Security Administration for the coming holiday travel season:

• Do no lock luggage. Some bags may need to be hand searched if they set off alarms in electronic scanning machines, which may be behind the scenes. A plastic or wire tie can be used to secure luggage.

• Do not pack photographic film. The bag scanning machines WILL damage the film. Bring such items in carry-on bags. Travelers are also advised not to bring food: such items can set off false alarms on bag scanning machines.

• Do not wrap gifts. Such items will be unwrapped if there is any question.

• Do a final search of carry-on bags, especially if they have not been emptied in awhile. Such bags may contain prohibited items that can easily be overlooked.

• Personal belongings should be packed in clear bags, so screeners can see through without having to touch such items. Also, books should be spread apart and not stacked inside bags.

For other tips, check out TSATravelTips.us.

The TSA also has set up a toll-free phone line (866-289-9673) in case there is a problem with checked bags caused by a search. The line is open from 8 a.m. -10 p.m. EDT Monday-Friday; and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

E-mail jpilcher@enquirer.com