The holiday travel season is upon us

Being representative in the travel industry and a front line woman, here are just a few things to remind you about our busier than ever travel season.

Travel by airplane:

Input the top 10 air carriers into your cell phone. Why? If you are on a lengthy delay, you want a head start on getting yourself, and or others in your party, a confirmed seat on another carrier. You don't want to stand in a long line waiting at the gate or ticket counter to talk to that agent because he/she is doing the same thing that you could be doing, only quicker. Tell the agent on the phone your situation, get it booked, confirmed and if possible, seat assignments-crucial if you're travelling with your family. Get the agents name that you talked to on the phone along with an agent sign which usually identifies that agents station and city. If anything goes wrong, you have that small piece of information to count on in case something goes wrong and you can write into their customer service department. Many of the airlines offer "E-ticketing" and are usually transferable among domestic flights. Some International Carriers offer the same thing with domestic carriers, check with your airlines. If you have a paper ticket, the very old way of travelling, you will have to wait for your ticket to be endorsed to another carrier or reissued at the ticket counter.
Pack snacks in zip lock bags, trail snacks, almonds, carrots, broccoli, celery, your favorites. It's is easier to travel with and you can see what you have.
Pack a few "empty" water bottles and fill them up after security and you can refill them.
The TSA rules are still in effect, all containers must be 3 oz of liquids, gels or aerosols in your personal belongings and it all needs to fit on a 1 quart Zip top clear plastic bag which you need to supply yourself. Gallon sized bags and fold over sandwich bags are not allowed. Packing liquids is unlimited in your "checked" luggage.
Shoes still need to be removed, be sure to protect your feet and wear socks or stockings.
Laptop computers still need to be removed and placed in its own bin.
Before going through security, try to minimize your time there. Remove jewelry, watches, belts and coins before hand. Have a small pouch to hold those things until after security should you need to wear them.
I'll be adding to post as I go along. It's going to be a long travel season. Be safe and happy holidays.