Going away for the holidays can be wonderful, but flying can be hectic. The airports are crowded, the winter weather can be an issue, and not everyone is feeling merry and bright. Fortunately, you can limit the stress by following these holiday travel tips.
Top 10 Holiday Travel Tips
1. Book early
In general, you get better rates if you book flights at least 21 days in advance, but six weeks is a better bet for holiday travel. Booking ahead also gives you more seating choices, which is especially important if flying as a family or group.
2. Fly early and fly direct
For less risk of flight delays and missed connections, book an early-morning, nonstop flight. Lines at the airport should be shorter in the a.m., too. Bonus: If you’re traveling with young kids, they’re already up and raring to go.
3. Ship your bags and gear instead of checking them
Shipping your luggage with Ship&Play is easy and allows you to travel light and skip the baggage lines. And if you’re going away for winter fun, shipping ahead is one of the smartest holiday travel tips as no one likes hauling their skis or board through the airport. Bonus: No worries that the airline lost your luggage or it didn’t make a connection. With Ship&Play, you simply meet your bags at your destination.
4. If you’re flying with gifts, leave them unwrapped – or ship them
Wrapped gifts can make TSA suspicious, and they may need to unwrap them. However, you can ship wrapped gifts domestically, which is another reason to let Ship&Play lend a hand this holiday season.
5. Consider a car seat
If you’re traveling with babies or young children, you may want to bring your car seat on the flight (which is easy to do if you shipped the rest of your gear). Not only is a car seat more secure, but if your child is used to sleeping in it, chances are they will sleep on the flight as well. Just be sure the seat is FAA-approved (most are).
6. Carry the essentials with you on the plane
Whether you’re checking bags or shipping them, it’s wise to have some essentials – enough for an overnight – with you on the plane in case of lost luggage. (Though Ship&Play guarantees on-time delivery and has a better record than the big carriers, Old Man Winter can occasionally wreak havoc on even the best intentions.)
7. Have handy a bag of in-flight essentials
Within your carry-on, include a smaller bag to have handy on the plane, with items like reading glasses, earbuds, lip balm, snacks, and small toys for kids. This way, you don’t have to open the overhead bin to retrieve what you need. Bonus: You won’t leave anything behind in the seat pocket.
8. Don’t sweat the small stuff
Yes, you might normally limit screen time and avoid fast food, especially for the kids, but now is not the time. Among the most practical holiday travel tips? Let go of the rules, indulge a little, and do whatever helps pass the time easily.
9. Use the airport lounge – on both legs
If you have access to an airport lounge, you may already be planning on using it for your departure. However, many lounges will also let you pop in when you land. Take advantage of the better bathrooms and the free food before the next part of your journey begins.
10. Don’t be a grinch
When traveling during the holiday season, there’s a good chance something will go wrong. When it does, try your best to stay in good spirits, and don’t take your frustrations out on others. After all, it’s not the flight attendant’s fault the in-flight WiFi isn’t working. Remember, ’tis the season to be jolly – even if your flight is delayed.