SeatGuru Shares Top 10 Tips for Holiday Air Travel
Charting a course through holiday hell
Murphy's Law stalks holiday travelers like a blood 
Ticket Outta Herethirsty hunter. But there are ways to find your comfort zone while enroute - and you don't need a secret decoder ring either.
Matt Daimler, founder of SeatGuru, shares his top 10 tips for logging peaceful air miles this season.
Don't confuse the plane with Santa's sleigh: Be ruthless and take only what you need. The more items you check, the more chance you have of shopping your way through Christmas Eve in a frantic rush.
Check the security rules - twice: If you're unsure about what's allowed and what's not, visit the Transportation Security Administration online. And remember gift items, such as jams, are considered liquids and a no-no in your carry-on.
Spread cheer, not germs: If you're sick, reconsider your travel plans. If you must travel, use sanitizer and bring a face mask (if you have a cough).
Check your reservation early: Don't wait until the day before you leave to check your reservation online. A change in planes or a last minute partnering with a different carrier can land you seat in front of the bulkhead - or worse, beside the bathroom.
Forget last-minute flights: If you haven't already booked your flight, you may have to settle for traveling on Christmas or New Year's Day.
Don't forget the extras: Check with SeatGuru to see what types of flight entertainment and power ports are available on your plane.
Arrive early: Count on long lines. SeatGuru recommends arriving a full hour earlier than you normally would. If your plans are flexible, add your name to the "volunteer" list and take a later flight - which usually earns you a free flight at another time.
Play fair: Don't hop on a courtesy cart unless you need to, line up before your seat is called or talk on your cell phone when the plane is taxiing. Everyone's nerves are jangled and a little good will goes a long way.
Be nice to airline employees: Be friendly but firm if your needs aren't being met. SeatGuru recommends keeping the airline's customer service phone number on speed-dial.
Practice patience: Expect delays, long line ups and cranky people and remember that no one wants to spend Christmas stuck in the airport. The airlines want you to arrive safely, even though it may not always feel like it, so do your best to help them help you.
"When it comes to air travel during the holiday, it's all about time, preparation and flexibility," Matt Daimler says. "It is absolutely the most stressful travel time of the year, but by managing expectations, and planning for some inevitable bumps in the road, you can have a more relaxing travel experience."
Got any holiday travel tips to share? Talk Back, Girlfriend and rate this post!
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