2. Buckle Up. It sounds obvious but flight turbulence can hit unexpectedly at any time.  Whether you are traveling by plane or car, everyone should be safely buckled in to avoid injury in the event of a bumpy flight or a vehicle accident. If traveling by plane, children weighing less than 40lbs should travel in an FAA approved car seat. New car seat laws in Arizona mean that any child traveling in a vehicle younger than 8 years old,  and measuring less than 4'9" tall should ride in a booster or weight approved car seat so be sure to check the laws in any states you are traveling through and to make sure you comply with local laws.

3. Follow Instructions.  If you are not a first time traveler, chances are you have heard what the flight attendants have to say before and it's sometimes difficult to pay attention.  They do their best to make it interesting (ever been on a SouthWest flight? Some of the announcements are highly entertaining!) and informative. Listen to whatever instructions are given, and pay close attention to signage so that you are prepared in the event of any problems.

4. Be careful about what you bring on board. Of course weapons and liquids are carefully monitored, but did you know you cannot check loose lithium batteries into your luggage now? Electronic equipment that requires lithium batteries should be brought on board with your hand luggage. If you are in any doubt about what you can bring on board, check the TSA website for specifics. 

5. Look over your shoulder. Since you are likely to be weighed down and distracted more than usual, check your seat, under the table and the vicinity of wherever you are leaving to make sure you have everything you came with. This especially applies when traveling with children who have a tendency to create their own baggage whirlwinds! Also, you should never leave your belongings unattended while waiting for your flight. Wrap straps around your arms or feet, or keep them close to your person to avoid theft.

6. Protect your money - keep your sources of money separate and don't carry your wallet in your back pocket which provides an opportunist the chance for an easy grab. If you lose your wallet with all your cards in it, getting a replacement while on the road is decidedly UNfun so be sure you keep at least one card away from all the rest in case of the unexpected.

7. Check travel conditions before you leave home. Airline websites these days allow you to receive up to the minute text messages on your phone about your flight status and any weather delays.  Traveling by road?  Every state has a Department of Transportation website where you can check road closures, construction delays and detours before you go. Be prepared, leave in plenty of time, and everyone will get to their destinations safely and de-stressed!