Prepare
For Christmas Travel
Nothing
spoils the holidays faster than a miserable trip getting there, so
taking the time to plan your trip just may be the very thing that keeps
it happy. Here are some tips for planning your trip.
Save money by contacting a travel agent well in advance of your
departure date. The lowest-priced fares, hotel rooms and rental car
fees can be obtained by securing them far in advance of the holiday
season.
Pack light to save energy, time and money. You also should check with
your particular airline as some will place special restrictions on
carry-ons during the holiday season because of the higher demand for
space.
Save on airline space by shipping your gifts instead of taking them
with you. Allow at least two to three weeks for your package to arrive
at your destination because both Federal Express and UPS are busy
during the holidays. So put this on your holiday travel list.
Make sure that before you leave on your holiday trip, your home,
plants, and pets are secure and well cared for. Pet sitters will often
times care for the plants and home as well, so they are a good
investment and will give you peace of mind.
Don't forget to have someone collect the mail and newspapers so that it
won't look like no one is home at your house. You should have your
lights set on timers so that they come on at different times. Check to
be sure that you locked all windows and doors and turned off the oven
and stove before leaving. Do NOT leave any message on your answering
machine or voicemail that indicates you are leaving for a trip.
Avoid peak travel days at the airport like the day before or the day
after a holiday. Book your flight two days before a holiday. Try to
book a non-stop flight if possible.
If you have an early flight, consider sleeping over at an airport hotel
the night before and taking an airport shuttle right from the hotel to
the airport the next day.
If traveling by car always have the car serviced by a certified
mechanic. Make sure they check the fluid levels, brakes, tire
pressures, and any other car part that needs regular maintenance. Bring
along jumper cables, extra fluids, maps, first aid kit, flashlights,
blankets, water, snacks, flares, ice scraper, chains for the tires and
also a cell phone.
Traveling with kids by car or air means bringing snacks and something
to keep them busy like games, toys or music. If they will be sleeping
during the trip bring blankets and pillows.
Good planning is essential for a safe and happy holiday trip so take
the time to plan.
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