Flying this holiday season? Here's what you need to know:

• Many airlines charge for each checked bag. Check with yours to find out about fees.

• Airlines have also become much stricter about the weight of the bags you check and the size of your carry-ons. Weigh or measure your bags before you head to the airport.

• If you're carrying holiday gifts, don't wrap them. Transportation Safety Administration personnel may require you to unwrap items in carry-on luggage.

• The 3-1-1 rule remains in effect: You can bring no more than three ounces of any liquid or gel in your carry-on luggage, and all such items must fit into a one-quart clear plastic bag. You'll need to pull it out of your luggage and put it in a bin for security.

• Have your boarding pass and government-issued ID ready when you approach security. You won't need to show your ID again once you get through the line, but you will need to show your boarding pass.

• The TSA has set up a family lane. If you're traveling with children, ask where it is. If you're not traveling with children, avoid it.

• For more on TSA rules and procedures, plus a list of prohibited items, see www.tsa.gov.

• American Airlines elite fliers now have their own security lane at Miami International and some other large airports.

• Get the airport early; you know why. For recommendations, check with your airline or your airport. (MIA, www.miami-airport.com, 305-876-7000; Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, www.broward.org/airport/; 866-4359-355.) Another resource: www.flightstats.com.

• Take snacks -- especially if you're traveling with children. No, airlines still don't feed you.

• Don't bring drinks in bottles, cans, cups or boxes. You won't be able to bring them through security.

• Wear shoes you can remove easily, and avoid wearing a belt if you can. Those all have to come off in security.

• Be sure those shoes are comfy ones. The distances at MIA on American's newest concourse, D, are marathon.

• Keep a cell phone handy, along with the phone numbers for your airline, car rental company and the people you're meeting. If you get delayed, call you airline first to try for an alternate routing; this often is quicker than standing in an airport line.

• Remember that you need to make special advance arrangements for children flying alone and for pets.

• Haven't booked a flight yet? Don't despair. With lighter crowds this year, airlines have been posting last-minute holiday deals, and you still might be able to afford to get home -- or just away.

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