Holiday (and Everyday) Travel Tips
It’s that time of year when I like to dish up holiday travel tips like a seasonal centerpiece. Traditions can be tasty whether on the table or on the road. So think of this list as a little holiday appetizer, chockablock with travel tidbits for your consideration when over-the-river-and-through-the-woods is on your itinerary.
Create a travel check list.
Pack light, the day before
Make a plan A and B for airport parking or transportation
Snap a digital photo of your parking space location or garage level for reference
Carry a copy of your itinerary
Double check your departure time well before your departure time.
Check in online and print boarding pass prior to leaving for the airport (usually up to 24-hours ahead of flight time).
Check out baggage policies
Consider paying baggage fees online during Web check-in
Pack some snacks (leave liquids >3.5 oz. at home)
Tote a couple diversions (books, toys, letters to write)
Depart earlier than normal for the airport. (Anticipate parking, security screening, traffic, larger crowds.)
Wear easily removable shoes (for security checkpoints)
Remove all old destination tags from luggage (important)
Add ID tags to luggage (inside and out)
Don’t bring wrapped gifts through security
Bye-bye Beaujolais; no gift bottles of wine allowed through security
Upon checking in, verify your checked baggage receipts match your final destination. (Portland, Maine (PDM) is not Portland, Oregon (PDX).)
Keep valuables, cell phone chargers and medications in your carry-on luggage.
Adhere to TSA travel policies and airline carry-on luggage rules.
No joking; take security seriously. (Holding cells aren’t very festive.)
Email your itinerary to appropriate parties
If being picked up, give very specific instructions to the chauffeur, and exchange cell phone numbers.
Don't sweat the small stuff (at the airport and at your final destination).
Things to consider: Be aware that airlines usually release pre-assigned seats 20-30 minutes prior to departure if you have not checked in (an argument for checking in online). Flights will likely be overbooked. If you’re late and miss your original flight, later flights may not have space to accommodate you.
Once on the ground, you’re on your own. As a man who is one false move away from being relegated to the kiddy table, I resist offering advice outside the parameters of travel.
Happy Holidays. May the warmth of heart and home find you wherever you may travel.
