Holiday Travel Tips

By TERRY TRIPPLER
Published December 11, 2005

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Here are some holiday travel tips from airline/travel expert Terry Trippler, spokesman for CheapSeats.com:

Pack Light

* Select what you need to take - then take half

* Carry-on and keep all valuables / medicines with you

* When purchasing gifts remember that excess baggage charges can be expensive - Check "Know Before You Go" - I recommend shipping gifts or purchasing gift cards

Phone Contact

* Give the airline your phone number - cell number is best

At Home Check-In

* If your airline offers online check-in and boarding pass printing - do it

Photo ID

* A government issued photo ID is required

* Take back up ID - pack it separately or give to traveling companion

Baggage ID

* ID tag is required on baggage - most require name only but some want name, address and phone number.

Know Free Baggage Limits

* Know your airline's bag size and weight limits - there can be substantial charges for exceeding these limits.

Get To The Airport Early

* Be in airport terminal at least 2 hours before scheduled departure. If you miss your flight there may not be seats available on later flights. A late airport arrival could mean you miss your entire trip

Get To The Gate

* Check your baggage - clear security - locate your departure gate. Be at the gate "ready to board" at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure

Plan For Your Return Now

* Give airline your phone contract - cell phone is best

* Don't judge check-in and security wait times by your origin airport experience

* When arriving, ask travelers who have cleared security about their wait time

* Ask a TSA representative how much security time you should allow at the time of day you are returning. You are at a less familiar airport so it's even more important to arrive early