Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/226563
travel I'll Be Home (or Away) for Christmas Holiday travel can be rife with hassle – inflated ticket prices, security holdups and packing dilemmas when it comes to accommodating gifts and pets. Here's how to ease the stress by Claire Newell It is possible to fly for less during peak travel season, if you know where to find the deals. Start with these tips. GO CHARTER Charter airlines "Don't let that bottle of perfume for mom or artisan olive oil for dad be confiscated at the airport" FLEX YOUR DATES Flexibility that fly to the most popular is key when it comes to finding a destinations will have the best deal and avoiding some of the deals on airfares during the crowds. Consider holidays. Places like Hawaii and flying on Christmas Mexico are a good bet as Day. It's usually less competition among the major busy and a little carriers helps keep prices down. cheaper. ■ TRAVELLING WITH GIFTS Flying with Fluffy without freaking her out Have you considered whether Ge travet more BCLiv l tips at in Traveg.ca/ l ets are family, too, and if you can't bear to leave them behind, there are options. Check whether your airline allows pets, and if they're good to go, follow these tips for a smooth flight. CALL AHEAD AND RESERVE Not all airlines have space for pets in the cargo hold over the holidays, so call ahead before booking. If you have a very small dog or a cat, you may be able to bring it into the passenger cabin. Most airlines only allow a few pets on-board at a time, though, so reserve well in advance. BRING ID Make sure your pet has as much ID as possible and label your pet's carrier prominently with your contact information. FLY DIRECT If your pet's seat is in cargo, try to choose the shortest possible flight to minimize Fido's time in a potentially scary environment. LABEL IT Ensure your pet's crate meets airline requirements and is clearly labelled "Live Animal" with an arrow pointing up. ESCHEW LOCKS Keep the cage unlocked so a crew member can open it in case of emergency. your holiday gifts will meet today's tough security standards? These tips will get you through security scot-free. CHECK 'EM If you're planning on stashing gifts in your carry-on, think again. Instead, bubble wrap breakables and liquids over three ounces and pack them in your checked baggage. PACK 'EM The same goes for sharp objects. Visit tsa.gov for a list of restricted items. DON'T WRAP 'EM Don't bother wrapping any presents until you've reached your destination. They may be ripped open for inspection. P Claire Newell is the founder and president of Travel Best Bets. For holiday deals, visit travelbestbets.com and download the free app. p48-51_Travel-Accessories.indd 51 NOVEMBER 201 3 | 51 13-10-23 12:31 PM