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Community Corner

Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Tips for Smooth Holiday Travel

However you plan at arriving at your holiday destination, we have tips and tricks for smooth travel.

According to the American Automobile Association, 42.5 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more during the holiday season.

AAA has forecasted that during the year-end holidays, 91.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home—1.4 percent more than a year ago. That's 30 percent of the population, and the second-highest number in the past decade.

By Automobile

For those planning car travel this year, Gail Weinholzer, AAA Minnesota/Iowa director of public affairs, offered these safe driving tips:

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  • Adjust speed as appropriate for the weather and road conditions.
  • Increase following distance to provide additional braking distance.
  • Apply brakes gently to avoid losing control.
  • Do not use cruise control when the conditions are likely to be icy or slippery.
  • Buckle up!
  • Let someone know where you are going, what route you will be taking and when you expect to arrive.
  • Try to avoid driving during the evening hours on Christmas and New Years when the likelihood of impaired drivers is greater.
  • Never warm a vehicle in a garage or other enclosed area.

By Plane

Melissa Scovronski, public affairs and marketing manager for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, said the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after will be the busiest flying days of the year.

Throughout the holiday season, opt for an early-in-the-day flight, Scovronski said, as they are the least likely to be delayed or canceled. Arrive at the airport at least two hours ahead of time, she said.

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Travelers who plan on parking at Terminal 2 (formerly Humphrey Terminal) should allow an additional 30 minutes to take the free light rail to Terminal 1 (formerly Lindbergh Terminal). Daily parking prices at Terminal 2 are $14, and $18 at Terminal 1.

If you find yourself with extra time past security, there’s plenty to keep busy; through the end of the year, travelers can pass some time viewing an employee art exhibit featuring more than 170 works. Look for them in Terminal 1 between gates C7 and 12.

Airport visitors also can pick up a coupon book, good at restaurants and retail stores through Dec. 31, at information desks and directory kiosks throughout the airport or print one at home.

For those flying Delta Air Lines, there are two alternate check-in locations near where hotel shuttles drop off passengers and on the tram level. Those with carry-on luggage only can use the Delta kiosks near Checkpoint 10.

New security scanners for carry-on luggage are more sensitive than the previous ones. To avoid a bag search and speed up the line, place any liquids (see Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) Rules for liquids here) in a bin separate from your carry-on.

It also helpful to review the TSA list of prohibited items to avoid having them seized at the airport. Travelers with cell phones can download or access the online TSA mobile application, which provides crowd-sourced information about security line wait times and information about airports which may experience a weather delay.

For families, Scovronski had these tips for navigating Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) during the coming holidays, or any time:

  • There are family lanes at each security checkpoint for those traveling with children who don’t want to feel rushed by or hold up others waiting behind them in line.
  • There is family center near the entrance to Concourse E with a crib, rocking chair and couches.
  • The airport has installed a nursing mother’s room near gate C12 and plans on adding one to all concourses in the future. A key may be checked out for the room at the nearby information desk from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • On Nov. 22 and 23, and again on Dec. 22 and 23, costumed characters will be reading books provided by The Red Balloon Bookshop every half hour from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parents can find them across from gate C12 right next to the childrens’ play area.
  • There also is a play area at Terminal 2.

By Train

For a change of pace, why not travel by train during November or December holidays? The Amtrak station is located in St. Paul and the Empire Builder runs west to Spokane, Portland, Seattle and east to Milwaukee and Chicago. Here are some bits of information to make a train trip go more smoothly:

  • Amtrak has a two-bag, 50-pound limit for carry-on baggage. Skis, golf clubs and bicycles can be checked.
  • For long-distance trips, travelers can reserve a room for an additional charge. Some rooms even have bathrooms and shower facilities.
  • Many trains now offer free WiFi.
  • Travelers can bring their own food and beverages or use the dining car.
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