✈ Tips for Smooth Travel During the Busiest Week of the Year, Hotel Deals Are Coming & More From TPG ✈

Also: I've been packing my carry-on wrong — here's my new strategy to avoid checking a bag

November 24, 2025 View in browser         TOGETHER WITH     TOGETHER WITH

Keep calm and carry on by Ben Smithson, Senior writer As millions of Americans prepare to travel this week, even the most seasoned flyers can feel the pressure of navigating crowded airports and making their flights when everyone's trying to get somewhere at the same time. The good news? A few smart moves can help you remain calm. Book early flights: Early departures are less prone to rolling delays and ground stops than those later in the day. Allow additional time: Leave earlier for the airport than you think you need to, so you aren't rushed or panicked if things take a little longer than usual. Use technology to your advantage: Most airlines now have terrific apps that can allow you to check in (and select your seat) in advance, and will send you handy on-the-day notifications like gate allocations (and changes), boarding times and any disruptions to your journey — not to mention they can save you from waiting in line if your flight is canceled or severely delayed. Mind your checked bags: If transporting gifts for loved ones, consider packing the most precious items in your carry-on to avoid delays and possible damage, and know your size and weight limits. And don't forget your AirTag. Plan ground transportation now: Prebook airport parking and a ride‑hailing service to avoid any delays, higher pricing or dreaded "lot full" signs. Pick the right lane: If you have TSA PreCheck or Clear Plus, use it. Now is a great time to apply if you haven't before. Otherwise, scout out less‑busy security checkpoints. Expect airport lounge lines: If queues are long, join virtual waitlists, but you can also find quieter gates or restaurants with ample seating instead of hovering near a lounge entrance for that free coffee. Be kind to staff: Across the country, thousands of staff members on the ground and in the air are working hard through the holidays to get you where you need to be. If things don't go as planned, losing your cool won't get you anywhere faster. Wherever and however you are traveling this week, it's likely to be busier than normal. Plan ahead, remain calm and remember: Getting there is part of the adventure. Safe travels and happy holidays! Want to know more? Check out these resources: 10 tips for flying during the holidays this season These 12 apps and websites make award redemptions easier to find What to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel Capital One launches real-time lounge capacity tracker and waitlist in its app 8 things I wish I knew about travel before I became a parent Posts in this newsletter contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products, and this may impact how or where they appear. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page. Photo Credit: JIM VONDRUSKA/BLOOMBERG VIA GETTY IMAGES.

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Today's top stories The best Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday hotel deals you can expect in 2025 (so far) This is a great time of year to take advantage of deals from many hotel brands and booking services. Read more I've been packing my carry-on wrong — here's my new strategy to avoid checking a bag Here are essential packing tips that can help you travel lighter. Read more How to still get a free checked bag on Southwest flights Bags no longer fly free on Southwest Airlines, but the right credit card can get you a free checked bag. Read more On board Swiss' luxe Airbus A350 with its new Swiss Senses cabins Swiss introduces its first Airbus A350 with its tip-to-tail refreshed onboard product. Read more A road (or waterway) less traveled: 7 nights aboard Holland America's newest Alaska cruise Looking for a new way to see Alaska and British Columbia? Holland America's Great Bear Rainforest cruise might be for you. Read more

Handpicked for you Dive into your daily list of stories, curated based on your interests and past reads. Credit card transfer bonuses (November): 40% bonus to Virgin Atlantic, 70% bonus to Marriott Bonvoy and more Read more What is was like flying Japan Airlines first class and how I booked it for just 80K American Airlines AAdvantage miles Read more New Atmos Rewards card offers: Valuable bonus points and flight savings on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Read more Is the Prime Visa credit card worth the cost? Read more Last-minute strategies for earning American Airlines elite status Read more

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