20 Holiday Travel Hints

Here is are 20 things to do to make travel easier this holiday season.

1. Place houselights on timer to make it appear as if you're home.
2. Temporarily suspend mail and newspaper deliveries.
3. Ask trusted friend or neighbor to keep watch over your home. Provide your contact information to them.
4. Charge cell phone or mobile devices prior to traveling.
5. Pack strategically and as lightly as possible. Most airlines typically allow just one carry-on bag.
6. Remember TSA's 3-1-1 Rules: for all liquids and gels you pack in carry-on luggage.
7. Print boarding passes 24 hours prior to your flight.
8. Place government-issued ID that matches reservation exactly into wallet or purse you'll take with you.
9. Make copies of itineraries and confirmation numbers for airlines, hotels and rental cars. Bring with you.
10. Make list of important telephone numbers for airlines, hotel, rental cars and travel agent. Carry with you.
11. Wear comfortable clothes and easily removable shoes. This will speed up airport security.
12. Leave home with cushion of time to get you to airport at least two hours before domestic departures or three hours before international flights.
13. Be prepared for crowds. Even for seasoned travelers, remember that this may be the only time of the year when many are traveling, so they may be less prepared or informed than you.
14. Be prepared to pay for checked bags. Exceptions typically include those who have preferred status with the airline, those who are traveling in first class, and those carrying certain airlines' preferred credit cards, including Delta's American Express Card and Continental's MasterCard.
15. Know which items are prohibited by law.
16. Place all metal items (wallet, watch, jewelry, cell phone, etc.) in your carry-on or in a security binas you approach security.
17. Remove laptops, DVD players and other similar items from bag and place into security bin. The exception is the TSA-approved laptop bag.
18. Remove all coats, jackets and sweatshirts with front zippers and place into security bin.
19. Remove shoes and place on security conveyor belt.
20. Remember that patience is a virtue and that the holiday spirit begins with you.