As of August 4, 2007 common lighters are a permitted in carry-on baggage and on your person when walking through security checkpoint. You are only allowed to carry four books of safety matches in your carry-on or on your person through security checkpoint per person. Matches and lighters are prohibited in checked baggage with one exemption for lighters. Those lighters without fuel are permitted in checked baggage. Lighters with fuel are prohibited in checked baggage, unless they adhere to the Department of Transportation (DOT) exemption, which allows up to two fueled lighters if properly enclosed in a DOT approved case. If you are uncertain as to whether your lighter is prohibited in checked baggage, then pack your lighters in your carry-on baggage or on your person.

Torch Lighters are still prohibited in carry-on and checked baggage. Torch lighters create a thin, needle-like flame that is hotter (reaching 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit) and more intense than those from common lighters. Torch lighters are often used for pipes and cigars, and maintain a consistent stream of air-propelled fire regardless of the angle at which it is held. Torch lighters continue to be banned.

When I worked in checked baggage, back when lighters were banned, I had to concentrate on searching for lighters and matches as well as IED's (Improvised Explosive Devices) and other prohibited items. I am positive all screeners and passengers are relieved that the lighter ban has been lifted. HURRAY! No more focusing on lighters, unless they are in checked baggage. It was a very tedious job and now that it is over, the screeners can concentrate on more threatening items such as IED's and their components.

The ban on lighters when into effect April 15, 2005 and TSA was confiscating 22,000 lighters a day across the nation. My question is why were there a total of 11,616,217 lighters confiscated in the year 2006? Do we think the rules don't apply to us? I would here passengers in line say, "I'll just sneak my lighters through and they will never see it." Well, that passenger was wrong. Don't think you can sneak prohibited items through security checkpoint. Arm yourself with my information and be prepared for security. You will reduce your stress levels and make your trip a happy one. Go to my website for your MUST HAVE travel reference manual.

TIPS
1. Carry lighters and only four books of safety matches in your carry-on or on your person.
2. Don't pack your matches or any lighters in checked baggage. They will be removed.
3. Don't use a Marlboro bag for checked luggage. This is a big tip there may be lighters or matches in your bag.
4. Don't buy lighters while traveling and expect to return home with them, unless they are packed in your carry-on or on your person.
5. Torch lighters are still prohibited in checked and carry-on baggage.

Natalia Ippolito, a former airport screener and author of: I MIGHT AS WELL BE NAKED: How to Survive Airport Screening With Your Clothes On.

Receive her FREE Tip of The Week, Sample Chapter & Ultimate Packing List & Unknown Fines & Violations Report at: http://www.airportbook.com