Holiday rush shifts into high gear

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The holiday travel rush is in high gear for both those who are trying to get out of town, and for those who are still hunting for the perfect item on the gift list.

At Bergstrom International Airport, lines haven't been that bad. But the airport officials say during the holidays, it's a constant wave of passengers coming through. Passengers agree.

"My roommate dropped me off and that's the way to go. Parking is outrageous I can't afford that," said Nathan Simon.

If you didn't get your plane ticket months in advance, don't expect any Christmas miracles for a cheap flight.

Simon learned first hand when he decided to fly to Salt Lake City for a family sky trip.

"It was kind of a late decision where we were going and I ended up paying about $500 more for that," Simon said.

Airport officials suggest you arrive at least an hour and a half before your flight and do not wrap any gifts you might be traveling with, odds are they will have to be unwrapped.

"At this point, it's a mad dash to get it there before Christmas," said Marcus Sterling of Postal Etc. "Last Monday was our last big day because that was the last ground day you could get it to the far parts of the country."

With Christmas only days away, those who procrastinated will have to pay the price.

If you want your presents to get there before Christmas Day, you have until 5 p.m. Saturday to ship it off.