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.
You may never look forward to holiday flying, but you can reduce your frustration by following five simple suggestions.
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. Always take advantage of online check-in to get your boarding passes and to pay for baggage.
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. If you take medication or travel with anything else you must have with you, be sure it is packed in your carry on luggage. That way, you will not find yourself in a desperate situation in the event your luggage is delayed or (even worse) lost.
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. - 16492
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.
You may never look forward to holiday flying, but you can reduce your frustration by following five simple suggestions.
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. Always take advantage of online check-in to get your boarding passes and to pay for baggage.
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. If you take medication or travel with anything else you must have with you, be sure it is packed in your carry on luggage. That way, you will not find yourself in a desperate situation in the event your luggage is delayed or (even worse) lost.
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. - 16492
About the Author:
Lynda Baskin travels frequently in her work as an educational consultant. Her areas of expertise include online education, online colleges and online college graduate degree programs.
