Do I need to put everything except clothing into a clear plastic zipper bag, like a pencil bag, or ONLY CERTAIN ITEMS need to go into it, or do I EVEN NEED ONE AT ALL?

Hi Heather, thanks for your question. I have included a link to TSA's website "What Can I Bring" that has instructions for items and how to pack them. TSA has their own requirements for packing and the list is pretty comprehensive. Only certain items would need to be put in plastic bags, and you can search for those items in the search bar. There is also a liquids rule page which would explain the items that need to be in clear plastic bags. I hope this helps! https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule

I didn't use clear plastic bags, they where nice and courteous!

I did not do clear plastic bags for anything. Maybe that's why they were mad about my toothpaste and threw it away?? They're definitely pickier than Charlotte!