Holiday travel isn’t for the faint of heart. Family travel is in full swing, airports are buzzing and security lines feel longer than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Here are three insider tips – complete with valuable online resources – to help you conquer peak season travel.
1. Mine for Savings
Long security lines aren’t the first telltale sign that you’ve entered peak travel season – the principle of supply and demand is in full effect when planning a holiday trip. If avoiding the most hectic and expensive travel days isn’t an option, get a little creative when booking flights and other travel accommodations. Consider early-morning or late-night flights, mixing and matching airlines or comparing costs for flights into nearby regional airports. Sites like Expedia, Travelocity and Priceline are just a few of the many resources for travel planning that allow you to bundle for savings. Like Google Flights, many of these travel resources allow you to track flight prices so that you receive an alert when prices fluctuate.
2. Pack Patience (and Snacks)
Crowded terminals, limited seating at the gate and full flights often lead to long travel days and “hangry” moments. Holiday travel is an endurance event and if your flight is on one the busiest travel days of the year, you need to prepare both mentally and physically to roll with whatever turbulence may lie ahead. While you can’t control an airport’s passenger volume, you can control how you deal with the added stress. Keep all important items (and items needed to pass the time) accessible in your carry-on. With power outlets at a premium, it’s also advisable to bring a portable charger to maintain connectivity.
Better yet, use the extra time to disconnect. Add “relaxation tools” to your travel checklist. Download a meditation app, bookmark a short yoga routine or practice a few deep-breathing techniques.
And don’t forget to pack your favorite snacks and stay hydrated. Tip: Solid food items are permissible through TSA security but often require additional inspection. If you’re in charge of bringing a favorite dish to the Thanksgiving festivities, here’s a helpful overview from TSA on what foods can be taken through security.
3. Book Reservations Early
Holidays are the busiest travel periods of the year, and airport parking is often a traveler’s first test of holiday travel preparedness. If traveling between now and the New Year, ensure a smooth start to your travel day by locking in your airport parking at TheFastPark.com. We’ll have a space ready for your arrival and get you to the terminal in minutes, giving you a bit of relaxation before the holiday travel “storm.”
Bottom line: A little planning and flexibility can go a long way in conquering peak season travel challenges so that you can enjoy what the season is all about – family and gratitude.
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