Holiday Travel Tips - Flying

I travel a lot for work and for fun, but traveling during the holiday season is a completely different type of crazy than everyday travel. Here are some hints I have as you book and use your holiday travel! Today the topic is flying. Tomorrow I’ll discuss driving.

• Book flights as early as you can. The longer you wait, the more prices will increase. But make sure to wait until your plans and dates are solid. You’ll pay a ridiculous amount through the airlines if you want to change your travel. Likewise, don’t book super-tight connections. Winter travel often means de-icing airplanes, which can add anywhere from 15-45 minutes to your flight.
• Get to the airport early. Even if you are a seasoned traveler, many of your fellow passengers are not, which is going to add time to your trip. Plus, the sheer number of people traveling during this time also adds time. And the last thing you want to do is miss your flight. If you get to your gate super early, plan on eating or drinking or shopping. Just relax and enjoy, knowing you are on time and going to celebrate the holidays soon.
• Just go ahead and check your bags. Trust me, the $15 is worth it when the other alternative is trying to find overhead bin space on a packed flight. And then you don’t need to worry about only packing liquids under 3 ounces in a plastic bag. THIS RULE IS STILL IN EFFECT! I am still amazed, years since taking effect, people still forget or have no clue such a rule exists. But make sure to keep your claim ticket- you will want it if your bags are lost or delayed.
• WEAR SOCKS! Nothing is ickier than having to take your shoes off and not wearing socks. I don’t want to know what is on the airport floor. And, after you go through security, once your bags go through security, don’t stand there trying to put on your shoes and belt and put everything back in your purse or pockets. Most airports have benches and seats right after security- take your things there to get re-situated. Its more comfortable for you, and keeps the line behind you moving.
• Have the 1-800 number for your airline with you. So many times, my flight has been cancelled and the line to re-book is miles long. If you have the airline number, you can call them while in line. I guarantee you will be on hold for a while (probably even a long while) but every single time, I have talked to an operator before I ever got near the front of the line.

Are you flying somewhere this holiday season? What are your tips and hints for holiday travel in the air? Have you ever had TSA unwrap your wrapped gifts?