Holiday Travel Tips

November 20, 2008

Humanitarian work during the holidays has a special appeal. Just keep in mind that humanitarian travel during the holiday season offers a few more unique challenges. During these peak travel periods, airports are crowded and airline personnel are busy helping families and other less experienced travelers. Here's a few tips to help ease upcoming travel.

Know Your Airports
Visit the websites of airports you'll be using for your travel.  Review any maps and terminal diagrams to familiarize yourself with each airport's layout.  Print the diagrams and carry them with your other travel documents.  A little preparation can make navigating around a big airport easier - especially if you find yourself in a hurry.

Arrive for Travel Early
Plan for crowded parking lots and busy departure drop-off areas.  Check-in and security lines will be longer and move slower than usual.  Giving yourself extra time will help you relax.  In case your flight is overbooked, early check-ins usually have a better chance of not being bumped.

Pack Smart
Make sure you know the current baggage limits for your air carrier and pack accordingly.  Airlines are constantly changing fees and adding rules governing allowable checked and carry-on baggage. Keep in mind that carriers often have different rules for domestic and international baggage.

Organization 3-1-1
Organize your carry-on baggage for security inspection. Use the TSA's 3-1-1 guidelines: -- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in (3) three-ounce or smaller containers. -- All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in (1) one quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. -- Remove the (1) one plastic, zip-top bag from carry-on and place it in a bin for X-ray screening.

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