Friday is expected to be the busiest day of the festive season out of Winnipeg's Richardson International Airport. 

Previous years have seen anywhere between 12,000 to 15,000 travellers go through on their way to see friends and family. Ahead of the busy day, here are a few tips to keep in mind to make it a smooth trip:

Pack smart by knowing what can and can not go in your luggage. Find out all the details on CATSA's website here. Since screening officers may need to inspect your luggage, don't bring wrapped presents through but you can take advantage of the free gift-wrapping station after going through security. It's located after the security checkpoint for domestic and international flights. 

Be prepared for lengthy delays. Winter weather can be unpredictable which can lead to flight delays. Give yourself ample time to get where you're going. 

Save time by pre-booking your airport parking online. CAA members also receive a discount when they enter their valid membership number. Or skip the drive by taking Winnipeg Transit, a taxi or other ridesharing company and get dropped off at the terminal door. 

Check into your flight at home before going to the airport to save time and skip waiting in the line at the counter. Also, save your boarding pass on your phone. If you’re travelling internationally, you can submit your customs and immigration declarations up to 72 hours before returning home by using the Advance Declaration feature in the CBSA’s ArriveCAN app.

Expect crowds at YWG, especially during peak times. Give yourself ample time by arriving two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before any international flight. 

Any travel-related information can be found here in the Newsroom section of WAA.ca.