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With heightened security around the world, airport security checks have been more strict and stringent. Going through customs in the airport can be an ordeal, where customs officers will check everything on you to ensure there are no dangerous items being brought on board the plane. Therefore in order to make your trip through the customs as smoothly as possible, here are some important air travel tips on what NOT to bring with you on an airplane.1.) Do not bring any lighters or other flammable liquidsThis may sound obvious, but sometimes people do accidentally bring with them in their carryon luggage or even in their pockets flammable items such as cigarette lighters. There may not be much serious consequences with being caught with a lighter (the most they will tell you to do is discard them), but it is just one last thing you want for a customs officer to waste your time and check you inside out. By doing due diligence to ensure you do not have any lighters on you will help to make your customs clearance smoother.2.) Do not bring any sharp metal itemsWith the heightened security around all the airports, customs officers are not more stringent than ever on checking for sharp metal objects. Even a nail clipper and a metal file can be considered prohibited items to bring! Therefore before you check in your luggage, make sure you take out any sharp metal objects from your pockets and carry-on luggage and put them into your check in luggage instead.3.) Do not bring large bottles of liquids and gelsThis is a new rule that was introduced after an incident where a terrorist was found trying to ignite a bomb made with liquids while on the plane. Therefore the new rule states that you can carry on with you on the plane with liquids and gels such as toiletries in a container with a maximum capacity of 3 ounces. All of your containers containing these liquids or gels must then be able to fit into only a 1 quart sized clear zip lock bag. If your zip lock bag cannot be zipped up afterwards, then it will not meet the requirements. Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.By following these three easy air travel tips on what not to bring on a plane, you will be able to have a smoother experience through the airport security checks.

The joy that a grandchild brings to the lives of grandparents is immense. However, there is a need to balance out the love and responsibility that comes with it.

Here are a few tips that will make bring you closer to your grandchildren. You do not have to change yourself; it involves only slight adjustments and a bit of space to bring things back on track.

Although it is a virtue of the wise to guide, the youngsters, however, remember to give them the space to rise in a friendly environment. It will help garner a trust in you and your judgments.

Maintaining a friendly association with the grandchildren is a good effort, however, try to avoid acting as friends with them. Every generation finds it easy with the people of their age.

Do not demand respect or crib, but live with your head held high and command respect. Never compromise self-respect. Rest will follow in time.

Spend quality time with them. Gifts will not stay for long, but your time matters. Share their passions and dreams.

One should not try to replace their parents. Children never accept such ideas. These actions turn them off and though verbally they may not express but your presence will make them cringe.

While you teach them, do not force your opinions instead use indirect ways such as sharing events and memories from the past. Force makes people repulsive so never impose your thoughts.

In case, you are in a long distance relationship remembering to keep in touch more often. Technology has made things easier try the way through the internet (you can definitely do it) or sending colorful snail mails that make them inquisitive and eager about your next mail. In the case, you make a call never stretch your calls; moderation keeps things light and hearty.

Do not scold your children or talk in raised voices in front of your grandchildren for they may use you as a bait to get even with parents. When they see you giving freedom to your children the grandchildren will automatically find a wavelength with you.

Do not change but accept changes that bring progress thus making things easy for all generations. Keep yourself engaged so you do not seem a dependent being but an individual with tastes and hobbies.

If you raise your children with values that transfer automatically to next-generation your relationship with them will be a fruitful, happy, and worthy one.

Many grandparents spend cash on their grandkids – whether by chipping in on tuition bills, purchasing special treats or simply buying holiday gifts and helping with day-to-day expenses. Many seniors say that creating a financially secure life for themselves and their family is an important goal. As a grandparent, it can be hard to find a balance between supporting (and spoiling) your grandkids while ensuring you don’t run short on funds to reach your own financial and retirement goals. Here are four tips to keep it all in check:

1. Know what you can afford. No matter how much you enjoy splurging on your grandkids, your financial security should remain your first priority. There are many unknowns in retirement, including your longevity, fluctuation of the markets and the impact of inflation on purchasing power. Spend and gift within your means to maintain your own financial health in the future.

2. Determine if you’re giving or loaning. If you’re giving a gift, understand current federal tax rules, which are based on the calendar year. In 2015, you can give up to $14,000 to each family member before the federal gift tax is applied. And make certain the recipient knows it’s a gift for their own tax purposes, and so there is no uncertainty about whether or not they need to pay you back. If you are loaning money to a grandchild, be very specific about the terms and repayment, and consider having a written document that both parties sign and date. This can help safeguard your financial situation and ensure both of you are on the same page – now and in the future.

3. Talk about it. Many people tend to shy away from discussions about money and finances with their family. If you would like to help support your grandchildren or save for their future goals like college or a down payment on a home, be sure to communicate this with their parents. This can help your adult children do a better job with their own financial planning. For example, if the parents of your grandchild know how much you are expecting to contribute to their child’s education, they may be able to decrease the amount allocated to a 529 Plan and invest more toward other goals, such as their own retirement.

4. Establish boundaries. Even if you want to help your grandchildren financially, depending on their situation, it may not be appropriate to do so, or to repeatedly provide support. Everyone appreciates help, but if your grandchild needs to learn financial independence, there can be value in letting them live within their own means. Keep in mind the smart – and sometimes tough – financial lessons you learned as you made your own way as a young adult, and the pride that came with successfully overcoming challenges.

If you want to provide financial support to a family member, but haven’t incorporated it into your overall financial plan, consider consulting a financial professional. He or she can help you evaluate your financial needs and goals and create a strategy. A clear and realistic understanding of your own financial picture can help you identify how much you can comfortably give and stay on track with your own goals.