Are you traveling this holiday season? Once at your destination, it’s great. But getting there? What a pain. Here are some tips to alleviate the stress.
Travel on the holiday. You will find fewer crowds, less traffic on the road, and lower airfares traveling on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. According to the search engine Kayak, travelers saved 11 percent when they flew on Christmas Day, compared with December 23rd.
Fly direct, if you can. The week between Christmas and New Year’s comprise the busiest travel period of the year, thus more chances of lost luggage, overbooked flights and other disruptions. A connection, even if it saves you money, can pile on the stress because of the increased chance of something going wrong.
Ship your gifts to your destination in advance. This will avoid any potential excess baggage and overweight fees, and you minimize the likelihood of the presents getting lost or damaged en route, or being ripped open by TSA employees, which they are allowed and have been known to do. Not a fun way to begin the holidays.
Finally, go in January instead. If you’re flexible, instead of traveling in December, consider taking your trip in January. Crowds are lighter, prices are lower, and travel is generally calmer. Kayak data shows that airfare is lowest in January, compared with the three months prior.
Source: How to Make Holiday Travel Less Stressful, The New York Times, November 13, 2016.
My December column is usually dedicated to gift suggestions. Nothing new comes to mind, however you can check the BC Magazine archives online to find some great ideas. Recently, however, one of my clients introduced me to a new product line that I now love – Scrubba (srubba.com). Their Wash Bag was indispensable on my African Safari this year, and the Travel Towel was amazing. The serious traveler on your list might appreciate having a set.
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