Airplane storage compartments fill up quickly with holiday gifts, souvenirs and winter coats. If you must take gifts in your carry-on luggage, don't wrap them. Contents of packages often must be checked at the security checkpoint. The holidays also mean an increase in the amount of luggage that passes through airports. If you plan to take a lap-top computer or other electronics on board, be prepared to demonstrate that equipment at the security checkpoint.
Holidays are busy times for rental car companies, too.
Make rental car reservations in advance.