Travel experts are telling us it’s still possible to find good deals on flights and travel with ease this holiday season. The keys to success are to be informed, organized and to travel at the right times.

Travelocity says domestic airfare is up 5% and international airfare is up 6% from the 2010 holiday season. It also says prices are up too – bummer! Even so, if you still need to book a flight and can be flexible with your dates of travel, you may be able to save money and avoid the crowds. Sounds like a win-win to us!

Experts suggest avoiding peak travel dates such as Dec. 23, 26 and 30. They also say to choose an early morning or late night flight because they are less popular and cheaper. Purchasing a so-called “red eye” flight also may save you some bucks.

Just be aware that some airlines charge surcharges around the holidays, which drive up fares. Travelocity says holiday travel dates with surcharges are: Dec. 22, 23 and 26, and Jan. 2.

There’s an App for That

The Transportation Security Administration actually has a free mobile application called MyTSA for travel tips and information. Use the app to find answers to all kinds of FAQs about flying, including what you can put in your carry-on luggage, approximate wait times at TSA security checkpoints, weather conditions, airport delays and more.

Have Fruit Cake, Will Travel

It’s the holidays and we know you’ll be traveling with presents and maybe even fruit cake! But, be warned, TSA has rules for all that, too.

• The TSA recommends that passengers do not travel with wrapped packages. In order to determine if the contents of a package are a threat, a security officer may need to unwrap and inspect the item. Snow globes of any size are not permitted in carry-on bags because officers cannot accurately determine the volume of liquid. TSA recommends passengers pack these items securely in checked baggage.
• Food items, such as pies and cakes, are permitted but may require further inspection. If travelers are not sure if a food item is considered a liquid or gel, it’s best to pack the item in checked baggage or ship it to a destination in advance.

For more information on these and other helpful tips, please visit www.tsa.gov.

Happy traveling this holiday season and we hope to pass you in the airport proudly carrying your CupCase!

Alright, ladies. Holiday party season is approaching and CupCase wants to make sure you’ve got your bras in order for your fabulous getups!

Whether you decide to rock a backless dress, a strapless gown or a classy sheer top over fancy pants, CupCase has a few tips to keep you from committing any party no-nos with your bra. Typical offenses include: straps or back showing, wrong color and lack of support. You don’t want that to be you, do you? Here are some tips to keep you on the safe side:

• A really good bra is a fabulous investment any time of year, but during party season, you might need to buy a new one, especially if the outfit you’ve chosen to party in has challenging lines (off the shoulder, backless, low-cut, etc.).
• If you’ve already bought your ensemble, take it with you when you shop for the bra. This is key, because you’ll need to try it all on together. There are a lot of really cool options out there including:
  • Bras with transparent straps – These are just as supportive as regular bras, but the straps are barely visible.
  • Backless bra — There are a few choices for a backless bra, including one that has straps that go slightly around the shoulders, leaving the back completely exposed. Another type has a strap that winds around the lower part of the waist, exposing the back but providing the lift and support of a regular bra.
  • Strapless bra — Choose between bandeau and cup options, which offer support without the shoulder straps.
  • Convertible bra – The detachable straps on this all-in-one garment can be changed around from basic to strapless, halter, cross-back, racer-back and even backless.
• If you decide to wear a classy sheer top, some recommend you wear a bra of the same color underneath to create a bold yet simple look. Just make sure your bra provides appropriate coverage.
• Planning to travel or just get ready at a friend’s house? Don’t forget to pack your new bra in a CupCase so that it maintains its shape and is easy to find within your bag. And we’ve got a selection of colors perfect for holiday wear.

Party on ladies!