Thanksgiving is really next week! Before you know it, Christmas will be here faster than we can blink. Many of us will be traveling home this holiday season. As usual a majority of holiday travel will be done by plane. If you’re planning on traveling by plane with food and/or gifts, there are a few things to you need to know.
HOLIDAY CARRY ON NO-NO’S
If your flight doesn’t leave room to shop once you get home, I’d suggest asking a friend/family to pick up your cooking/baking supplies. TSA rules are strict and anything over that pesky 3.4 oz. rule will have to be placed in your checked bag, thrown out or shipped ahead. Here are a few things you cannot take in your carry-on bag no matter how important it is to your family recipe:
- Wine, liquor or beer.
- cranberry sauce
- oils and vinegars
- sauces
- gift baskets with salsa, jams and salad dressings
FOOD YOU CAN BRING THROUGH SECURITY
You can bring pies and cakes thru security checkpoints but they will be subjected to additional screenings. If an agent tells you that you can’t and that you have to dispose of it, repeat the rule and realize they’re probably just hungry. Click here for TSA’s complete list of food and items that you should put in your checked bag/ship ahead.
HOW TO TRAVEL WITH GIFTS
Traveling with gifts doesn’t have to be a hassle or time consuming. TSA does allow wrapped gifts thru security checkpoints. However, if an agent flags your gift/package for additional screening (for whatever reason), the gift will have to be unwrapped and opened. We know you have fabulous gift wrapping skills, don’t risk your beautifully wrapped gifts. Avoid the hassle altogether with these tips…
- Pack the gift(s) in your carry-on bag where it will be the safest (especially electronics).
- Wrap the gift(s) once you arrive at your destination.
- Ship all your gifts ahead of time (important shipping dates below).
- Know someone driving up later but before the holiday? Give them a few bucks for gas/tolls and ask them to bring your package.
HOLIDAY SHIPPING DATE GUIDELINES
If you’re going to ship your gifts ahead of time, there are a few dates that you need to keep in mind. The USPS service recently announced the absolute last days that you can mail your packages for guaranteed arrival by Christmas.
- For first class International service and priority mail, December 2nd is the last day for guaranteed delivery before December 25th.
- For first class and priority mail on domestic deliveries, December 20th is your last day for guaranteed December 25th
- The busiest day for mailing packages will be December 15th.
For package preparation tips and information or to use the USPS holiday planner, please visit www.usps.com.
Happy Travels…
BMWK: Are you traveling for the holidays?