Holiday travel tips
By Amy C. Fleitas • Bankrate.com

If you plan on traveling this holiday season, a little planning can save you money, time and a lot of headaches. Start by shopping around for the best deal on your air fare. Check for online specials from individual airlines, and then visit sites such as Travelocity, Expedia, Orbitz, Bestfares and Smarterliving.

For as hassle-free of a trip as possible, follow these tips compiled from Bankrate reporters' experiences and Doug Stallings, an editor at Fodor's.

Holiday travel tips:

• Get to the airport early -- about two hours for domestic and two-and-a-half to three hours for international flights. Check the airline's Web site for recommendations. • Try to leave from smaller, regional airports. They tend to have shorter lines and cheaper flights. • Use curbside check-in or self check-in kiosks if possible. • Be careful what you pack in your carry-on bag. The new security guidelines from the Transportation Security Administration say you now can pack gels and aerosol cans in amounts of 3 ounces or less in your carry-on bag, they must be packed in a quart size, clear, zip-top plastic bag, don't even think of using that gallon-size freezer bag. Good news though, gel-filled bras are allowed, you can even wear them through the security checkpoint. • Bring a book, MP3 player or something to keep you occupied while waiting in line or during delays. • Pack light. Ship extra clothes and presents to your destination. Your carry-on bags may be hand-searched, so don't pack anything that might embarrass you. • Fully charge your cell phone before you leave. Program it with the numbers for your airline, travel agent, car rental firm, hotel and loved ones. Don't forget to pack your phone charger. • Allow at least an hour between connecting flights. • If you know you will miss your flight, call and rebook it. The change penalty is less than if you have already missed your flight. Even if the delay is not your fault, you may be charged. • Check the weather before you leave so that you can prepare for delays or clothing changes. You can do this at Accuweather. • Pack a snack. Many flights won't be serving any food this year. • Confirm all details of your flight with the airline before leaving. • Keep your ID handy until the plane takes off. • Don't carry wrapped gifts. They may have to be unwrapped at the security checkpoint. • Ask to have your film hand-checked. Many x-ray machines now being used are powerful enough to damage film. • If your flight is delayed, don't wander too far from your gate. • Don't wear clothing with metal on it.