With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve quickly approaching, many of us will be traveling to enjoy our holiday vacations.  However, it’s no surprise that dealing with problems in the airport can put a damper on anyone’s holiday cheer.  With unpredictable flight delays, checking in bags, the holiday crowds, slow-moving security lines, and not to mention the most recent TSA security process, travelling during the holiday season can be met with many obstacles. However, keep in mind that holiday vacations are a fun time to spend with friends and family, and that with careful planning you can enjoy a stress-free trip.  FlightView, an app that is compatible with your iPhone, Android, or Blackberry, helps ease some of the stress of holiday travel by keeping you updated with real-time flight information.  They’ve even recently released their Top 10 Tips for holiday travelers.

1. Monitor connecting flights. Make to schedule connecting flights with enough time in between to go from one gate to another.

2. Pack light. Many airlines have instituted baggage fees for checked bags and even carry-on luggage – with limits on weight and dimensions.

3. Be smart about parking. Just like checking flight details, travelers should check airport parking availability and pricing at FlightView.com before leaving for the airport

4. Arrive early. Plan extra time for airport check-in and security screening procedures.

5. Share travel information to keep friends and family informed. Notify friends or family who are expected to pick you up of any delays or unexpected events.

6. Bring a snack. Shorter flights rarely offer food or refreshments.

7. Be organized.  Make a detailed itinerary of your trip, and use today’s Smartphones to insert notes and booking details.

8. Scout the airport. When traveling with family and children, mobile users can learn about airport amenities before landing – including food, entertainment and terminal

maps – with one of many available airport guide apps.

9. Sit back and relax.  Although the airports can get a bit hectic, remember that you will soon be relaxing with friends and family.

10. Move fast if flight cancellations occur. Millions of travelers mean stiff competition for seats.  Call your airline as soon as possible to reserve the best seats. 

So if your winter travels land you at a hectic airport keep these tips in mind and remember that you are only a few hours away from your loved ones, no matter where your destination is; whether it be a New York tour or a trip to Los Angeles.