St. Petersburg Times
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Holiday Travel Tips

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.

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