It is easier to get travel and accommodation reservations if you book early. With some airlines and hotels, early booking may even qualify you for a discount.

Plan to arrive at the airport or station at least two hours early. The holiday season means everyone is traveling, which means traffic jams and long lines; giving yourself this margin will pay off in reduced stress, and may mean the difference between a missed flight and one caught in plenty of time.

Travel light. Taking public transportation or trying to hail a cab is very difficult at the best of times when lugging around heavy suitcases; holiday crowds increase the difficulty.

Carry essentials, including an ample supply of any medications you use, in your hand luggage. You never know when your luggage will be delayed or otherwise separated from you; it may take several days before you are reunited with your belongings.

Check your departure time with airlines or other services before heading out. Departures and arrivals are often delayed during the holiday season. If you are being met at the airport or train station, remind those meeting you to confirm arrival times. Travel is frequently delayed during the holidays.

Keep copies of your travel information in a safe place. It is wise to have copies with you in case the originals are lost. The holiday season means that most offices function on a skeleton staff, so replacements may take more time than you have. Also, do not forget to carry photo identification with you; a driver's license as well as a passport may sometimes avoid unnecessary delays.

Do not carry wrapped gifts in carry-on luggage, as gifts may need to be inspected at security check points and in some instances they will be unwrapped. Either check gifts or leave them unwrapped and accessible.

Call the airline for flight status before leaving for the airport.

Follow the airline's rules for carry-on baggage. When planes are full (as they generally are during holiday seasons), airlines will insist that extra carry-on luggage or oversized bags be checked.

Put address tags both on the outside and the inside of all baggage; external  tags could get  torn off during baggage handling.

Secure advance seat assignments to insure you are sitting with your family on the plane.

If carrying with oversized items such as golf clubs, skis, or snowboards, check with the airline ahead of time regarding their requirements. Make sure that they are securely padded and packed before you get to the airport.