21 November 2007
Top 10 Tips to Survive Holiday Travel
Posted by Debo Hobo under: Kids Activities; General; Weekend Getaways; Business Travel; Travel Tips-General; US-Destinations; Travel-General; International-Destinations .
Ready, Set, Go!!! Today marks the busiest travel day for US Highways, byways and airways. Even though President Bush as given orders for more airspace to be opened up for holiday travel it is still bound to be hectic. Are you one of the millions of people traveling today or on into the years end? Then these tips will help ease some of the tension that is inevitable. With airline delays and cancellations on the horizon stress levels are bound to be at an all time high. Follow these 10 tips, and you’ll be ready to face the unpredictable challenges of traveling during the holiday season.
1. Pack for security
Ignore the TSA’s baggage rules at your peril. Not only could you lose precious time as you scramble to make your plane, but you could also be forced to pitch your favorite perfume or that expensive bottle of wine.
The rules are fairly straightforward: You’re allowed to carry liquid, gel or aerosol products through security in containers of 3 ounces or less, provided these items can fit in a clear-plastic quart-sized zip-top bag. If you want to bring your liquid, gel or aerosol items in larger quantities, you have to put them in your checked luggage—or buy those products after you’ve passed through security. There are a few exceptions that can be carried in larger amounts, such as prescription medications and baby formula, so be sure to check the TSA Web site for complete details.
Also, you’re now required to take off your shoes as well as remove laptops from your bag. As you snake through the security queue, pull out your laptop before you get close to the scanner. Then you won’t hold up the travelers behind you as you fumble with your belongings. And when you get to the other side of the checkpoint, be sure you have the right laptop; it’s entirely too easy for you to accidentally pick up someone else’s machine.
Finally, keep in mind one change from last year’s rules: You’re now allowed to bring common lighters with you on the plane.
2. Keep your gifts unwrapped
If you’re bringing presents, be sure to leave them unwrapped until you arrive at your destination. That’s because TSA screeners may need to inspect the contents before clearing your checked or carry-on bag. You may want to consider shipping the gifts to your destination in advance, which could also save you from paying an overweight baggage fee.
3. Lose the pounds on your luggage
Packing light won’t just help you avoid straining your shoulders; it’s also a good way to keep you from draining your pocketbook. Most airlines allow you to check two pieces of baggage of up to 50 pounds each. Overweight bags of up to 70 pounds will cost you at least $25, and you’ll pay an extra $80-$85 for a third checked bag. If you absolutely have to bring all that on your trip, consider using a door-to-door service like Luggage Express, which will save you the hassle of schlepping your heavy bags into the airport.
4. Leave yourself enough time
With approximately 27 million passengers expected to fly during this year’s Thanksgiving season, according to the Air Transport Association, and with planes about 90 percent full, you’re bound to run into delays on the freeway, at the parking garage, in the security line and on the runway. Take a deep breath and don’t be surprised if everything takes a little longer than usual. Also, be sure to build enough time into your schedule if you plan to check your luggage: Airline rules require you to complete check-in, depending on your airport, no less than 30 to 45 minutes before departure. As a general guideline, you’ll want to be at the airport at least one hour before departure for domestic flights, and at least two hours for international flights.
5. Print your boarding passes on the Web
One good way to save time at the airport is to bypass the ticket counter entirely. Check in on the Web and you’ll be able to select or improve your seating assignment and avoid waiting in line. Even if you’re checking bags, you can still print your boarding pass online and take care of your luggage by using either an airport kiosk or curbside check-in. Be aware, however, that in some cities, it’ll cost you $2 per bag to use the curbside service.
Get the remaining five Top 10 Tips to Survive Holiday Travel here
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These are good ideas, leaving yourself enough time is critical. I travel regularly and missing a plane is a pain in the rump. It certainly is this time of year!!!
I’m traveling next month for the Christmas holiday and I’ve become a regular at the TSA website. It never hurts to see it again (I’m buying my trial sizes and quart ziplock bags this week). Happy Thanksgiving Debo.