Updated Holiday Travel Advice

Last year I gave you advice on holiday travel and things have changed slightly since then.  There are some potentially really nice things happening that may make air travel less stressful but they aren't here yet.  Just to tease you:

• The TSA rules are still in place and it is rare to find a TSA agent with a sense of humor but they're out there ready to make at joke for the people in the security lines.
• There may be a change to the in flight rules regarding using your mobile phone to make calls.
• New technology may change rules on amount of liquid travelers can carry onto a plane.

 There are a couple improvements and it gives us hope that there is some common sense being used in the government bureaucracy regulating air travel.

• Electronics are allowed to be used during take-off and landing with some limitations
• Lap-tops are not included
• The device needs to be in "airplane" mode
• The airline has to get permission for their fleet of planes to allow electronics usage
• Security lines are getting easier for some travelers with a new program called "Pre-Check"
• The program is mainly for frequent flyers (but they're out of your way if you aren't one)
• Participants don't need to strip down (shoes stay on) or take the liquids out of their carry-on

This year we are starting off with a tricky travel season.  Major weather storms are hitting the northeast US.  You may think that since you are not traveling to that region you'll be immune from weather travel delays.  You couldn't be more wrong!!  Your plane may be scheduled to work in that region before coming to your airport.  If it gets grounded due to the weather your flight is going to be canceled or at least delayed until a new plane gets freed up for your flight.

Everyone needs to remember to exercise a little additional common courtesy this year.  It may not seem like it but only about 14% of the US population, or 43.4 million people, will travel more than 50 miles this holiday season.  It will seem like everyone is out there getting in your way.  Please be considerate of the other people out there doing the exact same thing you are doing, going to see loved ones for the holidays. 

Lastly, the folks working in the travel industry need a little more consideration from us, too.  They are dealing with a more stressful work environment than usual.  Imagine how you feel when your workload jumps by 700%!  It's also a good idea to keep these folks on your good side.  If (and when) delays or cancellations happen, who is the person HELPING you?  I personally want gate agents, baggage handlers, and all the others to be willing to go the extra mile for me.