TORONTO - Travellers heading to sunnier climes for March Break should be prepared for longer than usual lineups at the airport and at border crossings.
It was expected 101,000 passengers would pass through Toronto's Pearson Airport on Thursday and another 105,000 people on Friday.
On a normal day, about 87,000 passengers move through the airport.
"The best advice is always to call ahead before you come out to the airport to confirm the status of your flight and leave yourself plenty of time," said Greater Toronto Airports Authority spokeswoman Trish Krale.
The wait may be more entertaining this year, since some past Juno Award nominees will perform at Terminal 1 on Friday afternoon.
The Bees Knees and Chris McKhool will perform near Gate 165 and some musical instruments will be available for children who want to play along.
Over at Terminal 3, travellers can test their knowledge by playing the Great Canadian Music Challenge Trivia Game.
The Canada Border Services Agency reminds travellers that they need a valid passport, a U.S. passport card, a NEXUS card, or an enhanced driver's licence to go to the U.S.
For those driving south, Florida is a top destination.
The top five driving destinations according to Canadian Automobile Association's South Central division are Orlando, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa Bay area, Daytona Beach, and Myrtle Beach.
To keep kids busy in the car, the CAA suggests travellers pack a portable DVD player, extra batteries or chargers and some movies and a range of games and toys.
Let children help plan the trip and give them their own map to avoid the constant refrain of "are we there yet?"
Having snacks handy and making frequent stops to prevent driver fatigue are other recommendations the CAA makes.
It also suggests planning the travel route ahead of time and keeping a fully charged cellphone.
