How You Can Stay Ahead of the Holiday Pack

Can I wrap gifts that I plan to carry on the plane?

Best to leave them unwrapped. Although it's not a given that security officials will unwrap them, if they are uncertain of the package's contents, they have the right to untie your bows. A good alternative is to wrap the present loosely in tissue paper and place it in a decorative bag. Also, be aware that certain gift-worthy items, such as snow globes, gel candles and baseball bats, are banned onboard.

How can I speed up the security line?

First, be prepared: Wear shoes that easily slip on and off, have easy access to your computer and bagged liquids, so you can quickly transfer them to a tray, and lay off the large metal accessories and other clothing items that might elicit a beep from the metal detectors. In addition, seasoned travelers can make a beeline for the Black Diamond lane, now available at 48 airports, including Dulles. These security areas were created for travelers familiar with TSA regulations and can move swiftly through the queue. For less-streamlined travelers, last week all national airports opened at least one family lane, which caters to individuals and groups who progress at a slower pace (i.e., broods and passengers with special needs). You can also save time by applying to the Registered Traveler Program (http://www.tsa.gov/approach/rt/index.shtm or www.flyclear.com), which fast-tracks prescreened passengers. The private-sector program is available at Dulles, among other select airports.

How can I get around paying big baggage fees?

Whether you're bringing the turducken and pie or presents for the family, you might have to check bags, especially if you're transporting anything that can't go in carry-on luggage. Most times, airline baggage fees are still lower than shipping suitcases heavy with presents. Seek out the few carriers that still offer free checked bags, such as Southwest, JetBlue and Virgin America. If your airline does charge extra for checked baggage, find out if it offers a discount to customers who pay for baggage in advance, the way United does. And don't let the frenzy of the holidays make you forget to pack conservatively; take only what you need.

If you've got time to ship packages via ground service, you can save yourself the hassle of schlepping those jars of candied yams or the heavy bestsellers you're giving out this year. Of course, we don't recommend shipping that frozen turkey! Here are a few resources:

U.S. Postal Service (800-275-8777, http://www.usps.com); DHL (800-225-5345, http://www.dhl.com); FedEx (800-463-3339, http://www.fedex.com) and UPS (800-742-5877, http://www.ups.com). Luggage delivery services include Luggage Express (866-744-7224, http://www.travellighter.com); Luggage Forward (866-416-7447, http://www.luggageforward.com) and Luggage Free (800-361-6871; http://www.luggagefree.com).

In addition, United Airlines has recently partnered with FedEx to offer Door-to-Door Baggage Delivery; starting at $149 per bag, FedEx will pick up your luggage at your home or office and deliver it to your final destination, as long as it's in the continental United States.