Holiday Road Trip Tips

With the holiday season quickly coming, you are probably already thinking about your holiday travel plans, and you are probably already dreading the traffic and the crowds. However, this year can be different if you change up just a few things. From being flexible with the days you hit the road to prepping your car before you leave your house, here’s how to take some of the stress out of holiday travel.

 

Take Care of your Car Before You Hit the Road- From filling up the gas tank early, checking your tires, and making sure everything is running smoothly inside and outside of your car, take the time before the holiday travel rush to make sure your car is ready to hit the open road. If you have to stop to your car serviced or fill up your gas tank with all of the other travelers, your holidays will end up stressful and rushed. So a little prep before goes a long way.

 

Try to Be flexible with Your Travel Days- If you can change up the days you and your family can travel, you could save a lot of money and miss a lot of the holiday travel crowds. While no one wants to be stuck in holiday traffic or long lines at the airport or train station, it seems that is par for the course when it comes to holiday travel—but it doesn’t have to be. If you are hitting the roads for the holidays, try traveling on a day that will be a little less crazy. Check to find the heaviest traffic day and adjust your schedule.  The same goes for the days you are returning. You will still have some traffic, but you will miss the heaviest times.

 

Pack Light- If you are driving or you will be flying for the holidays, don’t over-pack. You’ll be able to fit more into your car if your suitcase is small and if you are flying, a carry-on bag is less stressful because you don’t have to check a bag or worry your belongings will be lost. If this is a quick trip, just plan the essentials.

 

Make Parking Reservations- Did you know that many airport parking lots take reservations? It’s a little known fact, but it can come in handy when holiday travelers are looking for spots that are inexpensive yet still convenient. Contact the airport you will be flying from and see if they offer reservations or parking services. On the day you travel, you will be glad you called ahead.