The time for holiday cheer is here, and just like Santa with his reindeer, many people will be taking to the skies to celebrate with family and friends. While many passengers are seasoned travelers, this holly jolly season can bring new and unexpected twists and turns during your travels. But if you’re prepared, you’ll be in your one-horse open sleigh (aka airplane) with as little holiday stress as possible.
Eat, Drink and Bring the Cranberries
Traveling with your favorite homemade cookies or that special local wine your family loves? The good news is that you CAN travel with all of your favorite goodies! However, there are steps to take before doing so. As always, be mindful of TSA’s liquid rule; any liquid you are taking through the TSA Checkpoint must be under 3.4 ounces. Anything over the limit may go in a checked bag. Wanting to bring a little jolly juice to your gathering? Alcoholic beverages with less than 24% alcohol have no quantity limit in a checked bag. Food items that are solid may travel with you in your carry-on luggage, but should be in their own sealed container and ready to go through the TSA screening process.
Rockin’ Around the Gifts
While it may be fun to play the part of Santa and travel with a bag full of gifts, it is recommended to wait until you arrive at your destination to do your present wrapping. Presents may need to be unwrapped for additional inspection and, unfortunately, TSA’s elves are not equipped to tie your gifts back up with a bow. This goes for both carry-on and checked bags. Consider using gift bags or wait to show off your wrapping skills until you arrive at your destination. This will help keep the screening process moving and reduce the need for a TSA officer to potentially pull you aside.
Dashing Through the Airport
Airports see a spike in traffic during the holiday season, which makes it imperative to know before you go!
All of the airlines that service FWA, as well as the TSA, have their own apps for passengers to get the most up-to-date information about their travels, retrieve their boarding passes and find out all of the necessary security information. The airport also recommends that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes before their flight (two hours before if you are flying with Allegiant). You’ll be happy not making the mad holiday dash.
