
Top Holiday Travel Tips
by Amy Ziff, Editor-at-Large
- Before heading to the airport, check your local traffic reports for delays along your route and allow for more commute time if needed.
- Allow ample time to park, check-in and get through security. A minimum of two hours is recommended for domestic travel and three hours for international during the holidays.
- Consider shipping all gifts to your destination ahead of your travels. Remember, wrapped gifts may be opened for screening purposes, and extra fees will apply if your allotted baggage limit is exceeded.
Airport Security Tips
- Be mindful of the IN, OUT, OFF security policy: Place items such as cell phones, keys and change IN your carry-on bag; Take your laptop and video cameras OUT of their cases; Take OFF all outerwear and shoes before entering the security checkpoint.
- Pack all toiletries in a single, clear, one-quart plastic bag. Remember, only travel-size (3 ounces or less) liquids and toiletries are allowed, and the plastic bag must be placed on the conveyer belt for X-Ray.
- To get through security faster, pack liquids in a checked bag and minimize the clutter in your carry-on so security personnel will have a clear view of items in your bag.
- Place keys, cell phones, loose change or other metal items in your carry-on bag.
- Avoid wearing clothing, shoes and accessories containing metal that will sound the security device, and wear shoes that are easily removable to speed up the screening process.
- After clearing security, travelers can purchase beverages and other items to bring on-board.
- Do not pack or bring prohibited items to the airport. See the Transportation Security Administration website for further details.
Packing and Baggage Tips
- In addition to one, quart-size plastic bag for toiletries, you are allowed one carry-on and one personal item such as a laptop computer, purse, small backpack, briefcase or camera.
- Each airline has its own size restrictions for carry-on and checked baggage, so verify your carrier's policy prior to proceeding through security checkpoints.
- Leave all checked baggage unlocked or use one of the following TSA-recognized locks: Travel Sentry or Safe Skies Locks.