Holiday Travel Tips
The holidays are the busiest time of year to travel. AAA estimates that 99 million people will travel between the week of Christmas and New Year’s. Take the stress out by following these tips:
If you are driving…
- Plan your route ahead of time, including hotel reservations if you are staying overnight while on the way to your destination.
- Keep roadside assistance information at hand so you can act quickly if your vehicle has trouble
- Always keep a spare cell phone charger in your car
- Pack a winter safety kit with ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables tire chains, tow rope, flashlight, blanket, and first aid kit
If you are flying…
- Plan carefully, during winter travel, you may experience flight delays and cancellations
- Pack light. Many airlines charge for baggage. Take only what you need and consider shipping gifts ahead of time
- Leave early to allow you a buffer against delays and crowds. Consider taking light rail to the airport
- Download your airline company’s app on your phone so you can stay informed about any changes
- Bring your own small blanket on the plane to avoid germs on the rarely cleaned ones airlines provide
- Stay hydrated, the pressurized airplane cabin is very dry
- Bring healthy snacks
- Move around to avoid blood clots. Taking a walk or even tapping your feet will help.
If you are bringing children…
- Give yourself lots of time and opportunities to rest along the way.
- Bring a spare set of clothing
- Pack some small toys
- Remind your children not to talk to strangers
If you are travelling with pets…
- Make sure your pet had ID and is microchipped. If you are taking a carrier, write live animal on the carrier and attached a photo of your pet.
- Get your pet up to date on vaccinations
- Make sure the animal is secure in the car, always travel with them in a carrier
- If flying, take a direct flight
- Make frequent stops if travelling by car and allow your pet some exercise (it is good for you too!)