The festive season is here! Airports across Malaysia are buzzing with excitement as families reunite and friends head off for well-earned breaks. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but also the busiest. Packed terminals and thorough security checks can turn joy into stress if you’re not prepared. 

This year, the festive travel rush is amplified by back-to-back celebrations, with Chinese New Year reunions followed closely by travel ahead of the Ramadan period. With more Malaysians travelling to visit loved ones or beginning their balik kampung journeys earlier, early preparation and a good travel plan will help ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

Here’s your ultimate guide by Malaysia Airports to holiday travel done right, the 10 dos and don'ts to keep the cheer and skip the chaos. 

5 Travel Dos 

1. Allow Enough Time for a Comfortable Airport Experience 
With increased passenger traffic during the holiday period, processes may take slightly longer. Passengers are advised to allocate sufficient time at the airport to move through check-in, security and boarding without rush. Online check-in, when offered by airlines, can further ease the journey.

2. Stay Updated on Your Flight Information 
Flight schedules can change in a flash. Download the MYAirports app or your airline’s app for real-time updates. No surprises, just a smooth sailing process through the terminal. 

3. Keep Important Documents Easy to Access 
Passport, boarding pass, and identification, keep them within easy reach. Quick access means faster checks and shorter queues. 

4. Follow Security Instructions Carefully 
Security checks are in place for everyone’s safety. Listen to instructions from airport personnel and cooperate fully. A little patience makes the process faster for all. 

5. Pack Smart and Travel Light 
Know the rules for liquids and restricted items. Pack light and avoid surprises at security. A well-packed bag means less hassle and more holiday cheer. 

5 Travel Don’ts 

1. Do Not Joke About Safety or Security 
Airports are high-security zones. Joking about bombs, threats, or other dangerous acts is taken extremely seriously. You’re not just affecting others, your own travel plans could be completely ruined, and you may end up in police custody. One careless comment can turn a holiday into a nightmare.

2. Do Not Bring Prohibited Items 
Avoid packing restricted or banned items. These can be confiscated during screening, causing delays and ruining your travel plans. Pack smart and ensure your holiday takes off without a hitch.

3. Do Not Leave Bags Unattended 
Leaving luggage unattended is a fast track to security alerts and terminal chaos. Keep your bags close. Your holiday gifts deserve better than any airport squad inspection. 

4. Do Not Ignore Official Announcements 
Those airport announcements aren’t background music. They’re your lifeline for gate changes, delays, and important updates. Listen up and you’ll thank yourself later. 

5. Do Not Let Delays Escalate Tensions 
Delays can happen, especially during busy travel periods. Grab a coffee, enjoy the festive buzz, and keep the holiday spirit alive. 

A Shared Responsibility 
Safe and smooth travel is a shared responsibility. By staying informed, being considerate, and taking airport security seriously, travellers help protect not just their own journey but the experience of everyone around them. 

Malaysia Airports remains committed to providing a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment for all passengers. Travellers are encouraged to follow official guidelines, stay alert, and play their part in keeping airports secure during the holiday season. 

For travel updates and airport information, passengers may refer to official Malaysia Airports social channels and the MYAirports app. 

This Driving Transformation series is a collaboration with Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB)