Holiday
Traveling Tips
Every year, millions of people set out for holiday
travel to visit family and friends. Sometimes the thought
of dealing with the hassle and expense can be too much
to bear – but if you still want to treat your
family to something special at holiday time, how about
a local getaway? Since lots of people stay close to
home during the holidays, look for discounted hotel
rates – especially on a weekend, when many hotels
(particularly in financial districts or near convention
centers or office parks, which rely on business travelers)
might have empty beds they want to fill. Or consider
spur-of-the-moment holiday travel, have your suitcase
packed and ready, and look on Internet travel sites
for last-minute bargains.
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Holiday Travel by Air
Holiday travel can be very challenging, particularly
at busy airports. But there are ways to make it easier.
The secret about traveling on Thanksgiving or Christmas
Day to avoid crowds isn’t as true as it used to,
but if that’s an option, go for it. Whenever you
set out, there’s bound to be long lines, so bring
a book or travel game and snacks – for the kids
(you can share, too). Go online and print out your boarding
passes in advance, to save time at the airport. And
find out the carry-on restrictions to make sure you’re
not carrying anything questionable. When you get to
the airport, the extra few bucks you might be charged
for sidewalk check-in could be worth it in terms of
time saved. Also, if possible, steer clear of major
airports. Holiday travel is prime time (and then some!),
but you can often save time and money by choosing an
alternate airport both at home and your destination.
Traffic and car rental availability are also often easier
to manage at smaller, less heavily traveled airports.
If you’re bringing gifts for family and friends,
consider mailing them ahead of time. With most airlines
now charging for checked bags in coach and keeping careful
tabs on weight allowances and carry-ons, sending a box
or two ahead might be worth the effort.
Holiday Travel on the Road
Gas prices have actually been going down recently,
so taking your holiday travel plans on the road might
be an appealing option, especially if you want to take
a shorter trip or don’t have to go too far to
see friends and family. Before leaving, make sure your
car is tuned up and that your tires, brakes and other
systems are in tip-top shape, so your holiday travel
won’t be interrupted by an unexpected breakdown.
Fill up the gas tank at your local station before leaving,
and try not to use highway rest stops, as gas prices
are generally higher there than within city or town
limits. And speaking of small towns, take a break from
highway driving to check out the local scenery en route.
This can be fun for everyone in the car during the holiday
season, when many people have their homes lavishly decorated.
If your car doesn’t already have a navigation
system, consider renting one before hitting the road
for your holiday travel; if you’re renting a car,
get one with a navigation system to save time driving
around unfamiliar areas – and to avoid bickering
with your significant other about asking for directions!
If you’re going to be driving through areas with
toll roads, find out before leaving home if you can
get a prepaid electronic toll pass. Also, bring a car
charger for your cell phone, so you’ll be ready
in case you have to call ahead or make an emergency
call from the road.
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