Tips for Savvy, Stress-free Holiday Travel

With the holidays right around the corner, Americans are preparing to head over the river, through the woods ... and into the airport. With all the ever-changing airport restrictions, occasional travelers may be nervous about what to expect. Marlys Arnold, frequent traveler and author of Pack Your Bags!, an interactive book on CD-ROM, offers the following tips to make travel planning (and the journey itself) go smoother.

- Don't be a chronic overpacker. It really is possible to pack for a week in a carry-on! The keys are to make a packing list and plan a mix-and-match wardrobe.

- Never wait until the last minute to pack. That's a sure sign that you'll be missing items you really need.

- If your travel involves a child, take their needs into consideration. Don't plan your days too full. And be sure to take along toys and activities to keep them entertained while in the car or on the plane.

If you're flying:

- Be smart at the airport. Leave plenty of time to make it through the screening process. You may even want to check the airport's Web site to see how early they recommend you arrive. And prepare for long lines and delays -– bring a book or a fully-charged MP3 player to help pass the time.

- Don't attempt to take items that will cause you or your fellow travelers grief at the security gates. All liquids you carry on must be in quantities of three ounces or less, and all bottles must fit inside one quart-size clear zip bag. (Check the TSA Web site for a list of what is and is not permitted on board.) If you're pulled aside for further search or for wanding, don't try to argue with the security officer.

- Avoid peak travel days (like the day before Thanksgiving). If your schedule is flexible, consider traveling early in the day on the holiday itself. Not only will flights be less crowded, you might just get a better deal.

- Leave all gifts unwrapped – take some gift bags and tissue to package items after you arrive. And if you plan to give any liquid gifts, such as cologne, it might be best to ship them, rather than placing in checked luggage.

If you're driving:

- Get a routine maintenance check of your car and top off all fluids, especially anti-freeze and windshield washer fluid.

- Always check road conditions before starting out. If you'll be crossing multiple states, call each one's road condition hotline to get the latest information.

- Pack a winter survival and emergency kit with blankets, jumper cables, flashlights (with fresh batteries), and non-perishable food.

- Never drink and drive.

With proper planning and a bit of caution, holiday travel doesn't have to be stressful.

(These tips are adapted from Pack Your Bags!, by Marlys K. Arnold (2006). Used with permission.)