
Your Insider’s Guide to Effortless Air Travel

Hi, I’m Kathy Keen Schwadel—the voice and founder of The Keen Insider.
I understand how stressful air travel can be, especially when you’re unsure if your medications and everyday essentials like lighters or sleeping pills will make it past security—or be allowed at your destination. I’ll help you confidently navigate airline, TSA, and customs regulations, with step-by-step advice from my colleagues in the field and my interactions with embassies and customs officials. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out on our Contact page and I will do my best to address them!
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Testimonials from Security Experts and Travelers
From Elyce McKenzie, Lead Trans. Security Officer, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Int’l Airport
“Kathy’s dedication to researching and sharing the latest TSA and customs regulations sets her apart. I’ve known her for 16 years and she never leaves a stone unturned.”
From Dan Lahrsen, Customs Inspector, Lyon, France
“Kathy has reached out to me and my colleagues in other parts of Europe because she want hands-on, practical advice to pass on to her readers. She does a great job explaining that they need to be aware of customs rules when they enter a country–and also know that country’s unique bans and restrictions. She breaks things down so you know what to expect.”

“Kathy eased my panic with her one-on-one advice on traveling to Turkey. Frankly I was terrified because I had a controlled substance my doctor insisted I continue and I was afraid they would confiscate it. I learned just what to do, thanks to her, and everything went smoothly.”
Lynn Rottinger
“Finally a clear guide on what I can and can’t bring on a plane! Kathy explained how my large bottle of cough medicine is actually an exception to the 3.4oz rule because it is a medicine. It was so helpful to have it with me in my carry-on.”
Sarah Mathis Berger, Little Rock, Arkansas
