Whether or not you are planning a trip in-state or going internationally this holiday season, it’s important to keep in mind a few tips. This busy time of the year can be stressful and expensive unless you are adequately prepared. Here are some of my favorite tips for traveling during the holidays:
1. Get a deal. If you carefully avoid peak travel times, you’re much more likely to save. Try searching online for different airlines and check the “my dates are flexible” option on your search. When you travel at off-peak times, you will reap the rewards of saving—allowing you more money on gifts and spending money during this notoriously cash-strapped time of year. Additionally, the earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a discount. Try nailing down your plans ahead of time. If you are unsure about your plans, make sure to check the airlines return and exchange policies. If you need a hotel and/or rental car, try booking them at the same time for packaged savings.
2. Be flexible. If you can, check alternate airports. Doing so may save you money and time. There are lesser known, alternative airlines that go to smaller cities. As an alternative to larger, metropolitan or international airport, be flexible and save big. Additionally, if you are flexible about your travel, you may find yourself benefiting from free vouchers. Airlines offer these perks to passengers willing to take later flights for overbooked travel times.
3. Pack appropriately. If you can, try to fit everything you can into your carry-on luggage. However, you will want to check TSA restrictions for packing. (link: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm) Make special note that liquids and gels must be in containers three ounces or less and packed in a single, quart-sized, clear plastic bag. Make sure to check if your airline charges for any checked luggage. Many do.
4. Think ahead. You can check online or using your smart phone these days. Doing so will save you time and stress—especially during these peak travel times. Have gifts shipped to your destination to avoid having to pay the check fee for luggage and to save room for essentials. You also have less risk of valuables breaking or being lost in transit. Keep phone numbers of your hotel and any other important contact information with you at all times.
5. Arrive on time. Make sure that you arrive 2-3 hours for domestic flights (more if you are traveling internationally). Security is notoriously slow during the holidays. If you are traveling with small children, give yourself an extra hour on top of those guidelines.
6. Bring plenty to do. Be prepared for any delays. If you have small children with you, make sure that you have items to keep them entertained.
These are just a few of the tips I have for traveling stress-free during the holidays. Additionally, make certain you have a signed passport, emergency contact information and if you are traveling overseas, consider comprehensive insurance. Your current medical company may not cover you if you travel abroad. This is important. Being fully prepared means mitigating the risks of the unexpected including familiarizing yourself with local laws and customs. Travelers are often targets of crime, so having comprehensive insurance has been a huge piece of mind for me. Many companies that offer such packages also have family plans.
Do what I do. Make a list not only of what you need to pack, but of any concerns you may have. Once you have assessed any potential problems, find a way to reduce the stress that would occur if such a thing were to take place. For me, Reliance travel insurance has been a life-saver. Do you find yourself stressed about upcoming holiday travel?
