Early Check-In: Book Your Holiday Travel Now!

Even though the kids just went back to school, it's never too early to start thinking about your holiday travel plans. Procrastinators may pay higher prices if they wait too long to book travel. Industry experts predict that flights will fill up quickly and rates will be higher for the 2012 holiday travel season. 

By booking your trip well in advance, you're sure to avoid that cringe-worthy phone call to your mom telling her you won't be home for the holidays this year. Save money and avoid unnecessary stress with these helpful holiday travel tips:

Look for travel deals.
Travel Zoo  

Find the best hotel.
Oyster

Get inspired by our Winter Getaways.
Travel Channel's Winter Getaways

Find the best viewing spot for the Thanksgiving parade.
Top 5 Thanksgiving Parades

Compare prices on hotels, flights and car rentals.
Kayak

Cash in your Amtrak Rewards.
Amtrak Rewards

Buy some new apps to keep the kids entertained along your journey.
Parenting Magazine 

Take advantage of your airline mileage-rewards program.
Web Flyer

Cash in those AMEX miles.
American Express 

Make arrangements for your pets.
Kennel Finder

Rent a ski chalet or cozy cabin.
HomeAway

Stay updated on the ski conditions.
Skireport.com

Forecast the weather.
AccuWeather

Monitor travel warnings and alerts.
US State Department

Apply for or renew travel documents.
US State Department 

Try a house swap.
HomeExchange or craigslist

Stay with folks for free.
CouchSurfing

Plan your holiday meals.
Food Network

Buy that new GPS.
CNET