Top 3 Holiday Season Travel Tips

Traveling during the holiday season can be stressful, but it does not have to be! Here are 5 tips to help you reduce the holiday trip jitters.

Step 1) Plan ahead of time. Being prepared helps reduce nervousness and anxiety. Take control of what you can control. Charge your phone and/or any device you will need the night before. Don't forget to bring your chargers and headphones, along with any books you want to catch up on! It's always good to have your entertainment and phone readily available. Always make sure your go to bag, which is your go to carryon bag that contains your ID(s) - REAL ID (upgrade your ID if you have not already) and your passport/any Visa or entry requirement related items you will need!) There is no room for error when it comes to your travel documents. We always suggest bringing some cash (ideally anywhere from $50 - $20 just in case. If you are traveling abroad make sure you also bring money that is the correct currency as well, outlet converters, money belts (for safety reasons) and of course snacks for any long trip ahead that is not liquid.

Know the TSA suggested time(s) of arrival for domestic & foreign flights. It is suggested to arrive even earlier or to give a generous amount of time for those traveling with animals. We will go more in detail with that as well.

Always check the forecast to make sure you are packing appropriately.

Pack in advance - do not wait till the last minute. Procrastinating is anxiety's best friend! By waiting to the last minute, you are more likely to forget something you need or want to bring or may delay you in the long run.

• If you are checking luggage, always check the airlines ticket and baggage policy. This will list all the luggage restrictions, baggage criteria (weight guidelines, pricing and luggage measurements). Depending on your ticket class and airline, checked luggage may be included. If your checked luggage has to be purchased separately. It is highly recommended to purchase this option in advance. A lot of airlines have kiosks where you can use to produce your luggage tag. Be prepared to arrive at the airport extra early if you are checking any luggage. If you utilize the Sky Captain service, there may be an additional charge as well; however, if you are in a time crunch or underestimated the TSA line this is a great option and small price to pay for convenience.

• At the bottom of your carry on we suggest packing some additional underwear, shirts, pants and socks if you can squeeze it in. These are great items to have in case your baggage experiences some delays.

• Alternatively carry on/personal items also have a lot of rules and restrictions which can vary by airline. If you are traveling on a new airline, make sure to check the measurements for any luggage requirements and restrictions. Electronics that have a Lithium battery are typically prohibited to be checked.

  
  

  Always pack any medication, laptops, or any essentials you may need with you in the cabin. Bring any over the counter meds you need (this could include anything from Pepto to Dramamine or even allergy medication.) OfCourse having your toothbrush and travel size toothpaste are great items to pack in your carry on in case you experience any unexpected trip interruptions!

• Special needs guests including, but not limited to, guests that need additional assistance for example guests that use the wheelchair provided by the airlines suggest arriving extra early. Check with your airline for the specificities.

• Lastly if you are bringing a pet within the cabin be sure to carefully the airlines guidelines and policies. All information related to the type of carrier for the animal will be noted in great detail. A lot of times the carrier may count as your personal item onboard. Additional information and or instructions will also be noted for service animals as well. Plan to arrive extra early to help ensure a smooth check in process.

2) Following along the lines of planning ahead - if you're departing through a busy airport plan on leaving early to allow time for any delays, especially if you are departing through a busy international airport. Whether traffic along the way is bumper to bumper, the drop off lane at the airport departures moves at snail's pace or you getting to your next destination via public transportation or a rideshare give yourself something breathing room and get there early.

There are a few ways to expedite going through security at the airport.

TSA-Pre - Although there is no true fail-safe solution to speeding through TSA the TSA-Pre option certainly comes close. For a fee and additional personal information this service grants you access to a separate line and extra bonuses like not having to take off your shoes, etc. These perks are meant to expedite going through security much quicker than the general line that encompasses every ticketed passenger getting ready to board their planes. Click the link to more!

Smaller airports this line may not be as effective. I have seen the TSA-Pre line longer than the general line.

Larger international airports TSA-Pre can be your saving grace, especially during a busy holiday season.

CLEAR - This service is a bit controversial because of it requires you to step in front of a scanner that is scanning your facial features, including eyes and at least one fingerprint every time you utilize the service. Signing up requires an initial scan, minimal documentation and a medium range price tag that is paid every year. Check out their trial period if you are interested! Click the link to more!

Some airlines offer its highest paying customers, elite status members and clients that purchase access to this expedited entry line for an additional fee. Different airlines at different airports may offer this service. Be sure to check with your airline and airport you are traveling to/from to see if this is an option!

3) Don't get the holiday sickness! In the post pandemic era that we live in it comes as no surprise that airports can be a germ hub!

Wear a mask. Yes, I know it's uncomfortable, but getting the proper N95 will help you stay well even in transit and even help prevent catching a common cold or virus. We strongly recommend wearing a mask through busy airports, especially if you are traveling internationally and washing your hands a lot. Small sanitizers are also a great thing to have with you when you at all times, especially when you are traveling.

Another couple of items that are overlooked but are important to at least consider bringing - flushable baby wipes, because public restrooms tend to fall short of toilet paper at the most inopportune times and travel size tissues just in case!

Thanks for reading our Holiday Season Travel Tips!

Take care and happy holidays!