Visit the Airline Website

Visit your airline’s website to check on flight status and print out boarding passes prior to arriving at the airport. If you are re not checking luggage, you can bypass the ticket counter and head straight to security if you’ve printed out your boarding passes early.

Allow Extra Time

With more than 24 million people traveling by air during the holiday, lines will be longer and it may take a few more minutes to find a parking place than usual. Skip the stress of arriving at the last minute and give yourself time to check in and pass through security at a leisurely pace. OAJ has a restaurant where you can grab a quick bite to eat before you board your flight. 

Pack Light

Avoid baggage fees and toting heavy luggage through the airport by packing lightly. Most airlines allow passengers to carry on one piece of luggage for free; however size and weight limitations apply. Check with your airline for specific details.

Prepare for Security

• Pack your bag in layers rather than haphazardly tossing items into the suitcase. It makes it easier to screen and less likely to need to be hand searched.
• Have your boarding pass and ID easily available.
• Remove your shoes. Slip-on shoes with socks are the best choice.
• Remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. If you have liquids in your carry-on bag, place all of the 3.4 oz or less liquids and gels into a 1 quart zip-top plastic bag. Pull that bag out for screening. The limit is 1 bag per passenger.
• Send coats and jackets through the X-ray machine.
• Remove any items that might set off the metal detector before you are screened-- like keys, loose change, watches, computers and heavy jewelry.
• Do not wrap any gifts. If security officers need to inspect a package, they may have to unwrap it. If traveling with food, check the TSA's list of items that should be checked or shipped ahead.

Delays Occur

Plan ahead for flight delays that may be caused by weather, technical difficulties or crowded flights. Bring along snacks and games for the kids and keep phone numbers for family, friends and airlines handy should you to need to adjust travel plans. Most airlines have websites designed to work with mobile devices that contain useful information should you be delayed.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Do not pack the following in checked luggage: keys, medications, travel documents, valuable or fragile items, or anything that you can’t live without; even for a day or two should your baggage be delayed.
• Update baggage tags and leave your name and phone number in your baggage as tags can fall off.
• Send your travel arrangements ahead to waiting family members. Many large airports have multiple terminals and baggage claims, sometimes making it difficult for people to find each other.
• Give yourself some extra time and you will have an enjoyable trip.

US Airways  (800) 428-4322  www.usairways.com

Delta Air Lines  (800) 221-1212  www.delta.com