Getting stuck in traffic or waiting in line at the airport can be very stressful, especially during the holiday season. Fortunately, some ways can help make traveling easier during this time of year.
Ideally, one should try to travel during quieter times. Unfortunately, we don’t always get what we want, which might mean traveling during peak seasons. Here are a few tips for traveling during the busiest times of the year.
Have a Plan
Before you leave, make sure that you have a game plan ahead of time. Having a plan will allow you to plan and avoid getting stuck in traffic or waiting in line at the airport. Having a backup plan will also help you in case something unfortunate happens.
Have Realistic Expectations
If you’re hoping for the best and preparing for the unexpected, traveling will be a more enjoyable experience. Having more realistic expectations will help you get through whatever happens during your trip.
Before you leave, make certain you have a copy of your travel insurance policy. This will allow you to easily identify coverage if something unfortunate happens. A clear understanding of your budget will also help set expectations for the trip.
Have a Source of Entertainment
Although most planes have in-flight entertainment, downloading a new playlist or movie is still a good idea to pass the time. You can also bring other items, such as headphones with noise-canceling capabilities.
Monitor Your Reservations
Use an app like Flighty or watch your flight closely for possible last-minute changes. It’s also important to monitor the status of your airline’s operations, as it could affect your trip. If the company struggles on Tuesday, you’ll likely experience delays or cancellations on Wednesday.
Aim for Early Times
The data shows that the later you leave, the more likely you will get delayed. One way to improve your odds is to book a flight that departs earlier.
Travel Light
One of the most common reasons why people get delayed is due to the lines at the airport. During the holidays, this issue only gets worse. We recommend traveling with only one carry-on bag, as it is cheaper, faster, easier, and frees one up to keep track of all of their belongings.
It’s also a great way to avoid the lines at the airport during the holiday season. If you’re planning on traveling with one carry-on bag, walk directly to the security checkpoint instead of waiting in line.