Tips To Survive Holiday Travel

It's now about that time to start planning your holiday vacation. Whether your packing your bikini, ski boots or turkey baster, expect a crowded, hectic airport, and possibly a headache in trying to get to your destination. The holidays usually means airfaire will increase a great deal. You'll also have to deal with cranky airline employees that are stuck working the holidays, pushy TSA agents, fighting for parking, long check in and security lines, and overpriced baggage fees. Here's are some tips to make your holiday travel go a bit smoother.

Parking

If you have decided to drive to the airport, it's wise to investigate parking rates at the airport or lots nearby to see who has the best deals. If allowed, make a reservation. You don't want to be in a situation where the lots are full when you arrive, and you have no place to park. Allow plenty of time to park. Perhaps give yourself an extra hour and arrive 3 hours before your flight. Another option is too look into airport hotels  that offer "stay and park" packages. This means if you stay at the hotel the night before, you can pay to park your car there for the length of your trip. They will provide a shuttle to and from the airport.

Flight Check-In

Starting 24 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart, utilize the airline's website. This will save you a lot of time standing in line. You will be able to check-in for your flight, choose your seats, if you haven't done so, pay baggage fees, and print boarding passes. All you need is your confirmation number you received when you booked your flight. Just remember, if you are checking your bags, they will have to be weighed at the airport. If you go over the limit expect to pay more. It might be good to weigh your bags at home so you have an idea of what to expect at the airport. If you checked in online and have your boarding passes make use of curb side check-in and kiosks to hand over your checked baggage.

Security

There is no fun or easy way to get through security. Just listen to the instructions of the TSA agents, follow the rules, and you shouldn't have any problems.

Departure

Finally, you'll be on route to your departure gate. There should be a time that boarding will begin on your boarding pass. First, find your gate, and if time permits browse around the airport shops, grab a bite to eat, or use the restroom. Just make sure you at back at the gate when boarding begins. The plane will not wait for you!

These tips can help your holiday travel be less stressful. If you are thinking about traveling over the holiday check out Photos4Travel with lots of tips information, guides, and recommendations for all your travel needs.