Dark days and dark nights plus holidays are invitations for break-ins. Secure your house before you travel.
Before you go-
1. Get a vacation stop on the newspaper.

2. Order a vacation stop for trash pickup. (If gone for two weeks or more.)

3. Alert neighbors to keep a watch on the place and ask one kind soul to collect your mail or you can ask the post office to hold your mail. Be aware that some people have had trouble with the Post Office not following through.
4. Lock all outside doors and windows.
5. Make sure security system is turned on.
6. Remove garage door openers from car in driveway.
7. Set timers for lights.
8. Turn down furnace to 60 degrees.
9. Take out all household trash least you return to a smelly house.

Packing-
1. Check with your carrier to see how many bags you are allowed to check free of charge and how much or little you can carryon. Policies differ. Prepay for extra luggage charges online to save time when you check in.

2. Place identification on the outside and inside of your luggage. You’d be surprise how many “found” bags can’t be returned due to lack of owner’s specifics.
3. Weigh your bag. The maximum weight is 50 pounds for domestic travel. Overweight charges can be horrendous and it may be cheaper to pay for two bags instead of one
4. Make sure your bags are in good condition. I’ve seen bags with broken zippers and holes with clothing oozing out.
5. Pack a blanket/pillow in your carryon. Many airlines no longer provide them.
6. If you are going to a tropical climate leave a coat in your car. Pack a hat and gloves with you for use on your return.
7. Find out in advance if food is available inflight. If not, pack some goodies, especially if you are flying more than one leg. Your connection time may not allow a food break.

At the airport-
1. Be there at least 90 minutes prior to departure, preferably two hours. Alaska Airlines closes check-in 45 mins prior to departure. Other carriers may vary.
2. Get through security as quickly as possible to avoid showing up late at the gate. Don’t wrap presents in advance.
3. Make sure to package all carryon liquids and gels (max. 3 oz.) in a one-quart zip lock.
4. Wear easily removable shoes and socks to prevent picking up cooties on the floor.
5. Keep an eye on your laptop. 12,000 are lost each year at airports. Send it through screening last to avoid a dishonest person in front of you from nabbing it on the other side. Have your flying partner go first and watch for it.
6. Get in front of the airplane boarding line to get space in an overhead rack near your seat.
7. Pack a small bag in your carryon and then load it while in the boarding area. I carry a reusable grocery bag for my book, magazines, water and whatever else I need to access while flying. It smooches nicely under the seat.
8. Be kind to agents and flight attendants.

Onboard-

1. Be nice to your seatmates don’t hog both armrests if you’re in an aisle or window seat.
2. If you’re flying with kids, keep them in tow.
3. Be nice to the flight attendants.

Print and post this list on your frig. Then follow Santa’s example and check it twice.

Enjoy your holiday travel!