kmseamom....perfect, just let him talk!!!
Regarding travel, DS knew thanksgiving plans about 2 weeks prior. Other option is to get onto the usna calendar site and guess when they will be released....and then buy refundable/changeable ticket. We used flier miles and were able to make changes.
Christmas break is when they are done with their last final and they know that 2-3 weeks ahead of time.
SuperShuttle is great for BWI travel. But, plan ahead and book as soon as you book plane ticket. You can do this online. Also, execucar has private sedans....pricey, but it's the same price for up to 3 passengers. For both, you or your Mid can book online, pay with credit card including tip at booking, and then not worry about anything else....
For first flight home, I booked DS flight with miles, and execucar because I didn't know what else to do. His dad was in Baltimore on business and surprised him at the BWI airport, upgraded him to first class (again using miles) and they had a fantastic flight home! I told him not to get used to such service!
Try to get all flights out of BWI. Flying out of Reagan or Dulles is pricier to get transportation and not as many mids fly out of there.
Sometimes the sponsor parents will take them to airport, but not always fits their schedule.
FYI - if Mid has a BWI arrival and a tight time frame to get back to yard, then use execucar. They stand there at baggage claim with a sign and get you right out of the airport within minutes. i used them for myself for herndon climb.
We have been very pleased with Execucar and Supershuttle service for my Mid.