Let the countdown begin, we’re officially one week away from the apogee of American Civil Religion: Thanksgiving. Whether for you this means feasting and a resultant tryptophan coma, or getting into fighting stance for the biggest shopping crush of the year, for anyone traveling, T-Day means a cornucopia of endless lines, delayed flights, traffic jams and the like. 37.2 million people traveled over the Thanksgiving weekend last year, and experts predict greater numbers next week. If you plan to be among them, take a look at this week’s NY Times “Practical Traveler”, which has a survival guide on how to avoid the worst of it. Chief on their list of concerns are the rules about carry-ons and toiletries (remember those?) which are still very much in effect.

“Airports say they are doing their part to make sure that people know the liquid and gel carry-on rules: containers no larger than three ounces, all tucked into a single quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag ready to be placed on the security conveyor belt.”

The piece also has useful advice on how to avoid traffic jams on the way to grandma’s house (drive at off hours, or on the day itself), and how to avoid a late or canceled flight (check flight on-time stats and fly non-stop). Or you could follow the advice of Bob Cella, a disgruntled traveler interviewed for the piece, and just stay home: ”’My dog and I are having Thanksgiving together,’ he said.”

Elsewhere:
– “Tips to help you get to grandma’s” (MSNBC)