Holiday Flying Tips
With the crowds, the delays, the security, and the increased prices, not many people enjoy flying.
And, the only thing worse than flying under normal conditions is flying during holidays, when crowds are bigger, delays are longer, and prices are higher. But, if you live more than a few hours from the rest of your family, or if you have business in distant cities, you pretty much have to fly, like it or not.
Flying may never be fun, but the tips below can make it more pleasant. Give them a try.
1. Use travel sites (Priceline, Kayak, etc.) to book flights, hotels, and ground transportation. You’ll save time and find both more options and better prices. But, remember to book early for travel during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas or all bets are off.
2. Carry all trip information (hotel, flight, rental car, etc.) with you in a file folder or large envelope. Also, bring your GPS or internet directions for all driving destinations.
3. Check in for flights and make baggage payments and arrangements online if at all possible.
4. Get your boarding passes and check your bags at curbside. Nowhere else will a few dollars save you so much time and inconvenience.
5. Do you take daily medication? Are you bringing critical business documents on your trip? Do not put anything you absolutely must have with you in checked baggage; carry it with you. Delayed or lost baggage will always be inconvenient, but you can prevent it from putting you in an emergency situation.
If you fly more than a few times a year, you might want to investigate a few of the auto rental clubs, airline clubs, and hotel clubs. They can save you time, hassle, and money, and they frequently offer members low cost or free upgrades. You’ll enjoy your memberships all year long, but never more than during the holidays.