A SPECIAL REPORT: HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN

Airport Tips

You know the basics--arrive early, expect delays and try to use MetroLink, Amtrak or even valet parking to avoid terminal congestion--but here’s something you may not have anticipated at Burbank Airport this week: Security rules mean that all packages taken onto the plane must be unwrapped. . . . It’s a lesson some fliers are learning the hard way. “I was so proud of my gift wrapping, and now it’s spoiled,” said Jeff Gutierrez, 29, of North Hollywood, who watched officials unwrap two presents.

Combat Duty

Toys R Us stores will be open 7 a.m. to midnight today and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Christmas Eve. But be warned: At this point, toy shopping isn’t child’s play. “There’s not one kid in that store,” said Ben Hotchkiss of Sun Valley, shopping Friday at the Burbank Toys R Us. . . . “I came out of there older, broker and more cynical about people.”

Holiday Platters

Turkey, ham and prime rib are still the champs but Bristol Farms in Woodland Hills reports demand for “more oddball stuff” than ever before. . . . Such as? Whole suckling pigs, fresh goose, venison filet mignon and fresh Northern California wild boar, says meat manager Kyle Wilson.