Holiday travel weekend begins

The Christmas holiday is almost here and Friday is expected to be one of the busiest travel days of the season. Area airports are bracing for the holiday rush as travelers gear up to head out of town. Motorists can also expect congested roads through the weekend as millions drive to their holiday destinations.

The Transportation Security Administration is offering up some tips for travelers to make boarding their flights a little easier.

ONLINE: Five Travel Tips To Get You Through the Holiday Travel Period

The TSA says wrapped gifts are allowed, however; if a gift needs to be inspected, it may have to be unwrapped. They suggest leaving the gifts unwrapped until arriving at your destination.

Snow globes need to comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule if they are taken onboard as a carry-on. Larger snow globes need to be packed with checked bags.

Toys that resemble guns or weapons could lead to delays, says the TSA. These toys are best carried in checked bag or shipped ahead of time.

Fruitcake, cookies and other holiday treats are allowed as a carry-on as long as they comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Also, travelers should check ahead to make sure the batteries they are traveling with are transported properly.

Find the FULL LIST of TSA travel tips here