Holiday air travel can be stressful, but with some helpful tips, you can enjoy the journey all the way to your holiday destination.

It may require a new outlook on air travel. Travel during the holidays involves crowded airports, long lines, unexpected delays, and the possibility of inclement weather that can disrupt travel. But with some preplanning and a backup plan, these stressors can be reduced to minor inconveniences.

Planning your flights:

• Nonstop flights are your best option. Connecting flights may be cheaper, but you increase the risk of weather-related delays and missing connecting flights. If you book a connecting flight, avoid tight connections and choose an airport with warmer weather.
• The peak travel days at Thanksgiving are the Wednesday before and the Sunday after. Christmas and New Year are typically December 22 through 24 and December 29 and January 2. Traveling on the actual holiday (Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s day) is the best day, but for most of us, that defeats the purpose. If you can fly out earlier or stay later, that is optimum. You will reduce your costs and avoid long lines and delays.
• Early morning or late-night flights usually mean fewer people at the airport. Flight statistics show early morning flights have a better on-time performance.
• Reserve your seats in advance, especially if traveling with friends or family.
• Factor in the cost of checked baggage fees charged by most airlines.

Airport delays and security:

For holiday air travel, plan to arrive two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. Consider any delays you may encounter to the airport, such as traffic jams, finding a parking place, or returning a rental car. Taking public transportation may alleviate some of this stress.

Familiarize yourself with the airports you will be traveling to. Find out where the gates for your airline are located and if there is an airport shuttle between terminals.

Plan for delays:

• Check in for your flight and check bags in advance. You can do this on the airline’s website or in the airline’s app starting 24 hours before your flight departure time.
• Check on the status of your flight or any connecting flight before leaving for the airport. If the delay will affect your connection, you will have more time to re-book a later connecting flight.
• Even if your departing flight is listed as delayed, you should still plan on arriving at the airport in advance of your original flight time. Flight times can change quickly, so if a previously delayed flight departs on time, you would be considered a no-show if you were not at the departure gate for boarding.
• If you have a significant flight delay and are not a member of the airline’s airport club, consider getting a one-day airline pass (about $50). You can relax in the airport lounge and enjoy complimentary drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi.
• Add the contact number of your hotel, car rental agency, and airline to your cell phone. If your flight is canceled or delayed, call the airline directly to re-book a flight rather than waiting in line at the airport. Notify your hotel and car rental agency of your delay as well.
• Ensure your cell phone and laptop are fully charged the night before your departure. Pack a portable charger since charging stations at the airports may be unavailable during busy holiday travel.
• Pack your medications and other necessary toiletries in your carry-on bag. If there is a flight delay or your luggage gets lost, you will want to have access to these items.

Security checkpoints:

Going through security can add to the stress if you don’t fly regularly. With some advance preparation, you can avoid holding up the line or having personal items that are prohibited tossed into the dumpster.

Here are some essential TSA Tips:

You will be required to remove your shoes, coat, and belt. Avoid wearing jewelry or metal items that may set off the alarm.

• Follow the 3-1-1 TSA regulations regarding liquids. All liquids and gels must be in a 3.4 oz. container and fit in a one-quart size bag. It should be easily accessible in your carry-on bag, since it must be removed and put in a bin at security.
• Check your purse and pockets before going to the airport. Remove anything that could be subject to additional screenings or end up getting confiscated. This would include items such as scissors over 4″, pocket knives, lotions or hand soap over 3.4 oz., bottled water, and more. Remove excess change in your pocket that may set off the alarm.
• Your laptop should be fully charged, and you’ll need to remove it from your carry-on bag for inspection.
• Many airports have a full-body scanner where you have to step inside and hold your hands in the air.
• Purchase your bottled water or coffee after you get through security checkpoints.
• Wear shoes that are easy to get on and off while standing up.
• Do not wrap Christmas presents. TSA may unwrap them for further inspection, including those in checked bags. You can pack gifts in gift bags or ship them in advance to eliminate the hassle of carrying them.
• Food items such as pies and cakes are allowed in your carry-on bag, but liquid items such as sauces, gravies, dips, soups, etc., must be packed in your checked bag. Secure them in a plastic bag in case they leak.

TSA Preè

If you are a frequent traveler, consider joining TSA Preè for expedited screening. You will not have to remove your shoes, belt, light jacket, laptop, or the 3-1-1 liquid bag from your carry-on.

The cost is $85 to join, and membership is for five years. Qualification requires a personal interview, background check, and fingerprinting at the closest center to where you live. Approval may be issued in 30 days, but TSA recommends applying 10 to 12 weeks before travel due to possible delays. You can apply at TSA online.

How to have a relaxing flight:

Since germs are flying around this time of year, wash your hands frequently with antibacterial soap and wipe down your tray table and armrest.

Plan on bringing earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise and help you relax. Download some of your favorite shows or movies to make those long make wait times more bearable.

Most airlines charge for meals, so pack some healthy snacks. Find out if the airline offers free non-alcoholic drinks. If not, plan to purchase bottled water after the security checkpoint to prevent dehydration during the flight. Eating snacks and drinking liquids will help maintain your energy. If your flight is delayed, having some packed snacks will be a welcome relief.

If traveling with children, pack movies, snacks, games, books, and toys so they can entertain themselves during long delays. A pillow and blanket may come in handy as well.

Airport/flight apps:

Several apps are available that will keep you informed on the status of your flight, weather conditions, airport transportation, and more.

• Download the airline’s app to track your flight and receive updates.
• MyRadar provides weather notifications and gate changes.
• MyTSA gives information on TSA lines (these may not always be accurate) and the airports that offer TSA Precheck lanes.
• LoungeBuddy provides information on airport lounges. If you are not a member, you can pay for a day pass and choose a lounge.
• NextFlight helps you find a new flight if yours is canceled or delayed.
• Airport Sherpa allows you to order food or shop at the airport and have the items delivered to your gate within a specific time frame.
• Travelocity has information on hotel and car rental deals in the area in case you get stuck overnight.
• TripIt or TripCase provides flight information, lodging, terminal and gate information, and more. This app can be helpful if your gate changes.

Bottom line:

With some preplanning and a positive outlook, air travel can be part of your enjoyable holiday journey. If you are traveling with children, keeping your stress levels in check will help them to remain calm and happy.

Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport and be prepared with an alternate plan in case your flight is delayed or canceled. Have the airline and hotel contact information on your phone, and be sure to pack some snacks and entertainment — just in case.

And most of all, enjoy your special time with friends and family!

 

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