The holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year’s is usually a joyous time when family and friends gather to celebrate, reconnect and enjoy each other’s company. However, all journeys begin with transportation, thus we offer a few tips for flying with the family this holiday season:

1. First Flight: Try to take the first flight in the morning, less chance of delay and/or waiting for an inbound aircraft.
2. Nonstop Vs. Direct: When possible, go nonstop. A direct flight may make a stop. If in doubt, call the airlines and ask.
3. Ship Your Luggage/Gifts: Avoid checked baggage fees and luggage carousels, ship ahead of time. Save a few dollars by shipping air to the destination, ground on the way back. Mail Boxes, Etc, UPS Store and others can assist.
4. Pack Some Snacks: Pack a few snacks in your carry-on luggage. Buy beverages post security checkpoint.
5. Check-In 24 Hours Prior: Check in via the Internet 24 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure, less chance of getting “bumped”.
6. Reconfirm Return: Especially for international flights, reconfirm your return flight with the airline 24-48 hours prior.
7. Patience: Airports will be crowded, tempers will flare. Stay calm and cool. Please remember, the airline employee has been yelled at all day, show some sympathy. Even better, bring a box of chocolates or similar, may receive an upgrade.
8. Weather Delay: Before leaving home, if connecting, check options for hotels close to your connecting airport, make a list of a few with phone #’s, just in case.
9. Cell Phone: Keep it charged. If you are delayed and in line to re-book, call the airline from your cell as well, all inquiries and requests go through the same system.
10. Flexibility: If you flight is delayed and/or cancelled, be flexible. Yes, we all have jobs and lives to return to, however, if delayed consider an extra day or two at your destination. As I say, “Have laptop, will travel”.

Happy Travels!