Flying Today? Tell Us About It!

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

See recent posts by Carl Unger

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Happy National Opt-Out Day, everyone! That’s right, Thanksgiving, one of the busiest travel periods of the year, has arrived. This year we have the added fun of a planned airport protest against the TSA’s new screening policies, so air travel should be eventful, to say the least.

If you’re flying this year, I want to ask you to share your experiences with me and your fellow SmarterTravel readers. Were lines long at security checkpoints? Did you opt out of the scanner, if you were selected? Did you see many people opting out? Were things, dare I say it, smooth? Leave a comment below with your first-hand observations, tips (if you have them), and your thoughts about flying on this rather unusual Thanksgiving.

You can also send us a message on Twitter @SmarterTravel. Standing in a never-ending security line? Tweet us about it!

Safe travels everyone!

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