1. Holiday Gifts – ship them ahead of time so you don’t get stuck waiting for more luggage at the carousel. Even though we’ve already passed the cutoff for ground transportation, it will save you the headache in the long run to ship FedEx or UPS express. And, if you do have to take gifts with you on the plane, don’t wrap them or you luggage is sure to get pulled.
  2. Online Check In – utilize online check-in whenever possible so you don’t get stuck waiting in line at the airport. All you have to do is check your bags when you arrive. Click here for links to the major carriers online check-in.
  3. Arrive On Time – I am notorious for arriving late to the airport and have missed a number of flights because of it. Be sure to arrive at least 2 hours prior to your departure time.
  4. Check the Stats – Are you leaving from a major hub or overcrowded airport with delays? Check to see what’s happening at the airport and with your flight before you leave home. FlightStats.com has information on weather, flight details, and airport security delays.
  5. Park Offsite - If you can’t get a relative to take you to the airport at 5am consider parking at the airport instead. It seems costly, but if you part offsite you can get lower rates and they typically offer convenient shuttles to and from the terminals.
  6. The In Crowd – Join all of the preferred loyalty clubs even if you don’t care about earning points or miles. You’ll get better service, especially if the company has overbooked for the holidays.
  7. Fly Through Security – Consider joining the CLEAR program, available at a number of airports nationwide. A great benefit for frequent travelers, the CLEAR card allows you to bypass the security line by providing biometric data and clearing a background check in advance. Rates for the year are $99 per person, but will be increasing to $128 next year. Sign up with a local travel agency and get 1 month free.
  8. What’s in the Bag – Know what you’re allowed to bring with you on the flight and pack accordingly. The rule is 3-1-1 = 3 ounce bottles or less; 1 quart-sized clear plastic zip bag; 1 bag per person. Pull out the bag and place it in the security tub during screening. If you have additional items such as medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice be ready to declare these at the security gate.
  9. Overhead Bin Scramble – if the space in the overhead bin above your seat is taken then get the closest space to your seat, preferably toward the front of the plane. Don’t be afraid to take someone else’s bin space – hey, yours was already taken. Rearrange the bags to make yours fit because if your luggage gets stuck behind you, you’ll be the last one off the plane.
  10. Cell Phone Zone – Since most airports don’t allow you to stop at the baggage claim area and wait they’ve designed cell phone waiting areas. Drivers can park in the lots and wait for arriving passengers to call before circling around.