The most wonderful time of the
year?? Yes, in many ways, however, traveling during the Holidays can
certainly be stressful. Let me share some tips to relieve some of the
expected bumps if you are traveling this season.
Be flexible about travel dates.
Avoiding the crowds (or at least the worst of the crowds) will be a
stress reliever. The first and last flights of the day are typically
the least crowded and cheapest because who really wants to wake up or
arrive anywhere at 3am? If you are willing, however, you will not
only save money, you will save a lot of time at the airport.
Plan for bad
weather. Have a backup plan in your pocket just in case. This time
of year, it doesn’t matter where you are traveling, everyone can be
impacted by flight delays in other parts of the country. Research
alternative flights in case yours is delayed or cancelled. Always
remember to save your airline’s phone number in your phone so you
can call immediately to rebook a separate flight in case yours gets
cancelled.
Extend your arrival time at the
airport. The general rule is to arrive at the airport two hours before
the flight. Well, during the holidays leave earlier to arrive at
least three hours before your flight is due to take-off. This
may feel silly, but long lines are common and at least you’ll be
through security and can unwind while you wait. The priority is to
get to your destination with as little stress as possible and being
early is key to this goal!
Ship gifts – don’t pack them!
You can wrap them when you get there and avoid a lot of TSA hassle.
Use those travel apps. Airline apps
on your smartphone give you access to up-to-date flight information,
so you will know about delays ahead of time. Apps like GateGuru give
you gate information, close dining options, and security wait times.
Most important, keep a positive
attitude! It will all work out in the end and you are traveling to
enjoy your holiday – not arrive like a Grinch.
Image by Nikolay Dontsk, used with permission.
No comments:
Post a Comment