Modern Manners: Don’t check your manners at the airport when traveling

With the recent arrival of the first day of fall, I couldn't help but feel the holiday season close behind. Somehow another summer has passed and the trees are changing colors. I love this time of year and the anticipation of the holidays. But the holidays also can bring a lot of stress when it comes to scheduling, traveling and being a houseguest with relatives.

Outside of the upcoming holidays and pending travel plans, I often travel for work. Over the years I've observed and tried to adapt travel traits to make my experience as stress-free - and enjoyable - as possible. Whether it is work or leisure, I think travel is an adventure. And it doesn't have to be stressful and it most certainly shouldn't be thoughtless.

These are my well-traveled tips on how to prepare and navigate the etiquette of travel so you may arrive at your destination ready to work, play or partake in holiday cheer.

Luggage isn't Baggage

Carry your essentials with you; don't risk packing them in a checked bag. If the items are work materials, a hostess gift or something fragile, make sure they are with you the moment you begin your journey.

Luggage can greatly affect how successful - or unsuccessful a trip will be. Over-packing can slow you down. Try to pack 50 percent less than what you think you need. Rolling items instead of folding helps create room. To prevent wrinkles, wrap and roll the garment in a plastic dry cleaning bag. Always try to do carry-on only to save time and money.

Dress for the Day

When traveling for work, always dress in professional attire so you're ready to work the minute you arrive. Dressing for the day enables you to go from a breakfast meeting to dinner with clients. To make that possible, invest in classic, well-constructed items that won't show the stress of being on a plane, train or car. Dark colors are best and are never out of place in a boardroom or city.

For personal travel, knowing your itinerary ahead of time will ease your packing and wardrobe stresses. Think of multiple styles for a garment or accessory. Choose outfits that make you look and feel your best, and are appropriate for your travels. Traveling was once considered a very stylish and fashion-forward experience. Nowadays it seems like travelers are more casual than ever but err on the side of effort and be prepared for whatever the trip brings. You never know who may sit next to you or where the road will take you.

Be a Guest, not a Pest

When staying in someone's home, treat it better than your own. Always make the bed before you leave the room, put your stuff away, pick up the bathroom area and make it seem like you're barely there. A home is not a hotel. The old rule of a houseguest is the same as fish from the market - both should only last about three days. Always bring a thank you gift to the host. And follow-up with a thank-you note after the stay.

Politeness Pays

With plane delays, weather issues and chaotic schedules - travel isn't always smooth. Yet, with politeness, you can plan on having a connecting flight booked much quicker if you're polite to the airline attendant. If you smile at someone on the train, they may offer their seat. Never cut in line. Get great customer service by being a great customer. There is true power in 'please” and 'thank you.” Don't underestimate it. Random acts of kindness exist, so should random acts of politeness. It opens doors and can make you journey so much easier.