Wooden ones with graphite cores. Seriously these were very blunt plastic ones.

A good tip I heard was to bring a self addressed envelope with you, so they can post your needles back to you if they confiscate them. Doesn't always work, so don't bring pricey, or sentimental needles.

As for the hat/scarf, I think it'll take me a while to finish it. I don't have much knitting time.

A belt's a nifty idea. Don't think it would suit me though.