Holiday Travel Tips

Submitted by NCC on Wed, 11/02/2011 - 09:37

Getting the best deal
Even with the increased cost of air fares, there are plenty of ways to get a good deal on your tickets. Try Internet brokerage sites such as Travelocity or Expedia that will filter the best fares for you. Travel sites can also save you money on hotel rates and rental cars.

Many times, airline sites have special online rates as do many resorts and hotels, so it is worth checking out an airline or hotel’s Web site as well.

If you’d rather have someone do the surfing for you, contact a travel agent well in advance of your trip to start shopping for low rates and fares. No matter how you search for them, reasonable rooms, seats and rental cars go first, so don’t leave reservations till the last minute.

Pack consciously when flying
Another way to save money, time and energy is to travel light. Ship gifts ahead of time, at least two or three weeks before you expect to arrive, so that you don’t get stuck paying expedited shipping at the post office or shipping service.

If you do need to travel by air with your gifts, don’t wrap them. Airport security will need access to everything in your luggage, and there’s no use wasting paper and ribbon on a gift that will be unwrapped by a harried security guard, rather than your loved one. Consider packing collapsible gift bags for easy wrapping at your destination.

Avoid airport headaches
Between long security lines and airlines reducing flights to some destinations, it’s hard not to have headaches in the airports these days.

First, try to book your travel for non-peak days. The busiest days to fly are those directly before and after the actual holidays. When possible, book flights two days before and after Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.

Also, try to get on non-stop flights. Fewer take-offs and touch-downs mean less opportunity for weather and airport congestion to slow you down.  Morning flights, rather than those departing in the afternoon, also have less chance of delay.  Be sure to arrive at the airport to allow for long lines. Domestic travelers should arrive two hours before departure, while international travelers should come at least three hours before.

Don’t forget that airline services are cut to the bone, so supply yourself with snacks. But water and other beverages will have to be purchased once you’ve cleared security.

New restrictions limit what kinds and the amount of cosmetic and personal items you can bring with you. Consult your airline or airport’s website for guidelines.

It’s always nice to have someone meet you at your destination, but if you’re on your own, check to see if your hotel offers an airport shuttle. If it makes sense for the kind of travel you’re doing, consider staying at a hotel near the airport.  That will allow you more sleep before your return flight and help ensure an early check-in.

On the road
If you’re traveling by car, be sure your vehicle is in good working order before the trip. A membership with a roadside assistance club is a must, as is a good basic emergency kit, which includes jumper cables, flares, first-aid supplies, flashlight, blankets, water, snacks and basic tools.

Allow plenty of time for unexpected traffic jams and weather delays. Be sure to check the weather reports along your route and pack chains, scrapers and other cold-weather gear if your journey will take you into winter conditions.

Secure your home
When you’re heading out of town, give yourself peace of mind by securing your home before you leave, making sure you lock up and set your alarm. Put a hold on mail and newspaper delivery or have a neighbor collect them while you’re away. Having lights on timers is also a good way to discourage thieves looking for empty-for-the-holidays houses.

Regardless of what method you use to reach your holiday destination, try to enjoy the trip. It’s easy to lose track of the reason for the journey amidst all the last-minute rushing, but the greatest gift you can give your loved ones is to arrive safely.