The holidays are always a stressful time to travel. And with new airline restrictions plus added security, flying is even more challenging. This year, try these tips to make it a little easier.

Save time by using kiosks to check in.

1. If at all possible, don't travel on the day before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving or Christmas. One year, we traveled on Christmas day itself and were not only treated to an empty plane, but champagne onboard as well.

2. Get an electronic ticket. It's faster and easier and replaceable without a fee. Plus it gives you many more options for checking in at the airport. (See Tip #11)

3. Get seat assignments ahead, by calling the airline or going online (if you're a member of the airline's frequent flier program, just put in your member number and pick your seat).

4. Before calling, check www.seatguru.com to see where the best and worst seats are on that plane.

5. Pack lightly. Remember for most domestic flights, airlines restrict you to two checked bags (generally no more than 50 lbs.) and two carry-ons (one piece of luggage and a personal item, such as a purse). Excess baggage fees are very expensive.

6. Check all your bags, even Christmas presents if possible. It's crowded enough on the plane without having luggage or gifts to squeeze in an overhead compartment.

7. Don't lock your luggage. If Security has to check them, they will break the lock.

8. Don't wrap presents, especially if you're taking them onboard. There's a very good chance security personnel will unwrap them. Consider sending gifts ahead to your destination by UPS, mail or Ground FedEx.

9. Confirm your flight before leaving for the airport to make sure it's not cancelled or delayed.

10. Get to the airport early. Even though the airlines say to get there one hour early for domestic flights, during the holidays it's best to get there at least one-and-a-half hours early to deal with the long lines at check-in and security.

11. For fastest check-in, go curbside. Many airports have separate sections now for e-ticket curbside check-in that's fast. If you prefer to go inside, you can use one of the e-ticket kiosks installed in many airports. Just slide in a frequent flier card or credit card to confirm your flight information and print your boarding card. You then move over to a desk that takes your luggage and checks it in.

12. Expect long delays and lines. Bring magazines or books to read and toys and games for the kids to play while you wait.

13. Don't expect meals on the flight unless it's over four hours and during mealtime hours. Even so, it may be just a deli sandwich. We pack some goodies from home or pick up something from one of the many cafes and eateries on the concourses.

14. Relax. Be patient. And try to make the trip an adventure. You'll arrive a much happier person.

- Judi Janofsky & Rich Steck