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Christmas Travel Tips

It's the holiday season and chances are, you'll be travelling at some point during these weeks.  Whether you're heading home to see family or setting out for foreign lands, we've gathered a few tips to help keep you organised, calm, and ready to face the busy airports and highways that await you.   

Travelling by Air

  • Do your research: Explore your options well before you intend to travel.  Sometimes you can get a better deal by going through a travel agency, and sometimes it's far more economical to book online.  Get an idea of the typical prices and fees.
  • Book early: The further in advance you book, the better chance you have of getting a direct flight and a deal.  Furthermore, once you know your travel dates, you'll be able to more easily book your lodging and car rental.
  • Be flexible: Flying on weekends is far more expensive than flying on a week day.  If you have a flexible schedule, explore the prices for flying on different days, and you might be able to shave off some money from the total cost.
  • Hitch a ride: Ask around and see if anyone is willing to drive you to the airport on the day of your flight.  If not, book a taxi, limo or shuttle--or even book an airport hotel if you have an early morning plane to catch.
  • Call ahead: It's not a bad idea to call the airline and confirm your flight 72 hours before you travel.  Also, always call a couple of hours before you are scheduled to leave in case there are any delays--you might get some extra time to pack!
  • Don't be late!: Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare.  During the holiday season, airports can be especially packed, so you'll probably want to factor in an extra hour for parking, checking in, security, etc.

Travelling by Car

  • Get a tune-up: Make sure your car is fit to travel, so bring it to the mechanic for any needed repairs.  You should also check your tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, etc.
  • Plan your route: If you have a GPS device,  this will make your work a lot easier, but if you don't, check out a travel web site like Google, MapQuest, the AA or RAC.  On the day you're travelling, check the news or listen to the radio to get up-to-the-minute traffic reports.
  • Travel off-peak: To avoid crowded roads, try not to travel on weekends and plan around rush hour.  Remember, most people take off the minimum time possible from work and will be doing their Christmas travelling on the 23rd or 24th and the 26th or 27th.
  • Be prepared: Pack the car and fill the tank the night before so you can just grab and go.
  • Alternate drivers: If you're travelling a long distance, it's best to switch drivers periodically.  If you're driving alone, be sure to stop frequently to stretch your legs, use the loo and grab a coffee (but mind you don't drink too much coffee--it's a diuretic, which only means more pit stops).

Travelling Must-Haves

You might think you have your travel system down pat, but there is always room for improvement.  So before heading out, check in with the list below, and make sure that you have all the necessary elements.  Safe travels, and above all, enjoy your trip.

Directions

If you're driving, you'll want to have current and reliable maps  (or a GPS system ).  If you're flying, be sure to have a guide book  for your target destination that includes maps, restaurant listings, and travel tips.

Entertainment

Having distractions is especially important if you're travelling with children.  Handheld gaming devices, portable DVD players,  games,  books (crosswords  and SuDoku  are always fun) are lifesavers.

Sustenance

Having snacks handy means fewer stops and less whining.  Pack food with plenty of protein so you'll feel full longer--think peanuts  and trail mix --and non-sugary drinks  so you don't overconsume.

Luggage

When you have to pack the boot of your car or pay to check bags, it's always best to travel light.  A carry-on bag  can actually hold quite a lot, and you stash a compact duffel  inside for extra room.

Organisation

"A place for everything, and everything in its place," right?  Staying organised is vital to pain-free travelling, so look for cosmetics cases,  document holders,  jewellery pouches,  pill organisers,  and more.
 

Related Guides

Cruises

Lodging

Luggage

Travel Essentials

Honeymoons

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