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Allow Lots Of Extra Time Getting To The Airport This Holiday Season

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RDU INTERNATIONAL — Many people who have not flown since Sept. 11 will be doing so as the busy holiday travel season gets under way.

A lot has changed about air travel since that time, and those changes could have a big impact on holiday travel plans.

At

RDU International

, parking problems, long lines and security checks are part of the daily drill. Next week, travel delays could be worse than ever.

"It's going to be busier, frantic, more waiting. Everybody should just be prepared for that," said travel agency owner Andy Holloman.

Holloman said that based on the number of flights his agents booked, lots of people will fly next week and most will experience all the new FAA rules for the first time -- rules that take extra time.

Here are some dos and don'ts to help make your trip to the airport less hectic.

"I think the best thing all of us can do, both for ourselves and for the public at large, is to think before we leave home. Do I really need this," said Bill McGee of Consumer Reports.

"If there's any problem with your flight, another airline will be able to endorse your ticket more quickly," said McGee.

If you already have an "non-refundable" ticket, your only option is to pay a $100 change fee and get a voucher which can be used at a later date.

It is advice that should make the current, frustrating travel delays easier to take.

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