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Community Corner

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

However you plan at arriving at your holiday destination, we have tips and tricks for smooth travel.

According to the American Automobile Association, 42.5 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday season.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Nov. 23-27, AAA estimates that 90 percent, or 38.2 million people will take to the nation’s roadways; 8 percent will take to the air and 2 percent will take a bus, train or ferry.

By Plane

Melissa Scovronski, public affairs and marketing manager for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, says the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after will be the busiest flying days of the year. Travelers who can leave on Thanksgiving day and return the following Monday will be able to avoid most of the crowds—and the ensuing hassle.

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Scovronski recommends opting for an early-in the-day flight, as they are the least likely to be delayed or canceled, and advises arriving at the airport at least two hours ahead of time, in case of long security lines.

Travelers who plan on parking at Terminal 2 (formerly Humphrey Terminal) should allow an additional 30 minutes to take the free light rail train to Terminal 1 (formerly Lindbergh Terminal). Daily parking prices at Terminal 2 are $14 vs. $18 at Terminal 1.

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If you find yourself with extra time past security, there’s plenty to keep you busy; through the end of the year, travelers can pass some time viewing an employee art exhibit featuring more than 170 works. Look for them in Terminal 1 between gates C7 and 12.

Airport visitors also may pick up a coupon book, good at restaurants and retail stores through Dec. 31, found up at information desks and directory kiosks throughout the airport and also may be printed at home prior to arrival (http://www.shopsatmsp.com/page/1/Save.jsp).

For those traveling via Delta Air Lines, there are two alternate check-in locations near where hotel shuttles drop off passengers and on the tram level. (See map). Those with carry-on luggage only can use the Delta kiosks near Checkpoint 10.

New security scanners for carry-on luggage are more sensitive than the previous ones. To avoid a bag search and speed up the line, place any liquids (see Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) rules for liquids) in a bin separate from their carry-on.

It also helpful to review the TSA list of prohibited items to avoid having them seized at the airport. Travelers with mobile phones can download or access the online TSA mobile application, which provides crowd-sourced information about security line wait times and information about airports which may experience a weather delay.

For families, Scovronski had these tips for navigating Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP):

  • There are family lanes at each security checkpoint for those traveling with children who don’t want to feel rushed by or hold up others waiting behind them in line.
  • There is family center near the entrance to Concourse E with a crib, rocking chair and couches.
  • The airport has installed a nursing mother’s room near gate C12 and plans on adding one to all concourses in the future. A key may be checked out for the room at the nearby information desk from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • On Nov. 22 and 23, and again on Dec. 22 and 23, costumed characters will be reading books provided by The Red Balloon Bookshop every half hour from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parents can find them across from gate C12 right next to the childrens’ play area.
  • There also is a play area at Terminal 2.

Finally, although, Scovronski says, MSP has won numerous awards for keeping the runways clear and the airport open during weather events, she recommends travelers come prepared with a contingency plan, just in case.

By Train

For a change of pace, why not travel by train? The Amtrak station is located in St. Paul and the Empire Builder runs west to Spokane, Portland, Seattle, and east to Milwaukee and Chicago. Here are some bits of information to make a train trip go more smoothly:

  • Amtrak has a two bag, 50-pound limit for carry-on baggage. Skis, golf clubs and bicycles may be checked.
  • For long-distance trips, travelers can reserve a room for an additional charge. Some rooms even have bathrooms and shower facilities.
  • Many trains now offer free WiFi.
  • Travelers may bring their own food and beverages or use the dining car.

Looking for a special holiday getaway? How about a train trip to Chicago and to see a play? Amtrak Vacations is offering an all-inclusive trip to Chicago to see A Christmas Story the Musical (remember the movie about Ralphie and his quest for a Red Ryder BB Gun?).

From Dec. 14 to 30, one and two-night trips are available which include round trip transportation on Amtrak, accommodations at the Essex Inn, and an orchestra level seat to the play. Prices start at $189 per person; trains leave the St. Paul Station (presuming the Empire Builder is on time) at 7:15 each morning, arriving back the next day or the day following at 10:31 p.m.

By Automobile

For those planning to go over the river and through the woods by car this year, Gail Weinholzer, AAA Minnesota/Iowa director of public affairs, offers these safe driving tips:

  • Adjust speed as appropriate for the weather and road conditions.
  • Increase following distance to provide additional braking distance.
  • Apply brakes gently to avoid losing control.
  • Do not use cruise control when the conditions are likely to be icy or slippery.
  • Buckle up!
  • Let someone know where you are going, what route you will be taking, and when you expect to arrive.
  • Try to avoid driving during the evening hours on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years when the likelihood of impaired drivers is greater.
  • Never warm a vehicle in a garage or other enclosed area.
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