HOLIDAY TRAVEL TIPS

AIRPORT / FLIGHTS

Try to fly as early as possible in the day over the holidays. Storm systems, and the delays they cause, build up over the course of a day, so the earlier you travel, the more likely you are to get where you're going without hassle. And because planes are likely to be overbooked during the holidays, there's always the possibility that you could be delayed not just for hours but days if your flight has problems.

Fly on the right dates: Because Christmas and New Years Day both fall on a Sunday this year, the Friday before and the Monday afterwards are likely to be INSANE at the airport. Try to fly on any other day. A number of websites post calendars listings of the best and worst days to fly over the holidays. Consider a meta-search engine like DoHop.com, YAPTA or Hipmunk to find the best fares. Sometimes bundling air and hotel in a package can save you money, even over the holidays.

Try to book direct flights (unless you're on a budget). The more times you take off and land, the more chances there are for your flight to be delayed or experience problems. Alas, this isn't the rule for budgeteers because itineraries with stops are sometimes cheaper than direct ones nowadays.

AIRPORT SECURITY

Dress Appropriately
Try not to wear too many layers as you may have to peel them off. Wear shoes that slip on and off easily. Avoid metal belt buckles and jewelry as it may set off alarms.

Think like a security agent
So don't try to bring aboard anything that can be used as a weapon, even if it isn't a weapon.

Give yourself enough time
You never want to be stuck in security as your flight is boarding. Most airlines board half an hour in advance for domestic flights, up to 45 minutes in advance for long-haul international flights.

TRAVELLING ON THE ROAD

Be careful when driving. Traffic accidents go up every year during the holiday period, due to people driving under the influence and in areas they may not be as familiar with. The Friday/Monday rule above also applies to when not to drive if you're making a long road trip to see family.

Leave extra time for both flying and driving: Traffic jams, lines at security, full parking lots: all these can wreak havoc with travel plans

BRINGING GIFTS

Pack light! Difficult to do with gifts, but the more people traveling, the more bags will get lost because of the extra burden to the airlines. Carrying on your luggage is the best way to avoid that. Don't wrap gifts you're carrying in your carry on. You may have to unwrap them at security.

If you have a lot of presents to bring with you, perhaps buy them online so you can have them shipped (if you spend enough, shipping could be free). Easier than hassling with lots of gifts in the car or plane.