Holiday travel has nearly become an industry of its own, with millions of people traveling hundreds or thousands of miles yearly to spend time with loved ones during the holidays. But if you’re planning to travel this holiday season, you will want to ensure that you have all of the right information to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With that in mind, this article is here with some of the best holiday travel tips in 2022!
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The Rise Of Holiday Travel
When it comes to holiday travel, the numbers speak for themselves. In 2021 alone, reports estimated that roughly 63% of Americans traveled for at least one holiday, with that number rising to an estimated 70.5% in 2022. So what is it about holiday travel that makes it so popular? Of course, some argue that it’s simply about being able to spend time with loved ones, but that’s only part of the story. Other factors include that many people take vacation days from work over this period or that some companies encourage travel by offering discounted fares or other incentives. Regardless of the reasons behind it, one thing is clear – if you’re planning to travel this holiday season, you must do everything you can to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch.
Book Your Tickets Early
No one wants to be stuck at the airport on a crowded holiday, so book your travel tickets as soon as possible! The earlier you book your ticket, the more likely you will save money and get a spot reserved in advance. You’ll also avoid the potential stress of finding a last-minute flight that meets all your criteria. Booking in advance is even more important when traveling during peak times. Airlines usually reduce the number of flights and staff when fewer people are flying, so if you wait too long, you may end up without a seat on your desired flight. Also, take advantage of airlines’ early bird bonuses and sign up for their newsletters for notifications about discount codes. Keeping up with all available deals helps make the most out of your travel budget.
Pack Light
Packing light for a holiday vacation can seem impossible, but it can be highly beneficial. First, you’ll reduce the stress you experience throughout your journey if you only have to worry about fitting a single bag into the overhead compartment or checking one suitcase. This also makes the trip more comfortable: leaving unnecessary items at home allows you to walk through the airport with ease and with fewer burdens. Second, this also leaves more space in your luggage, allowing you to bring back souvenirs from your travels and not have to decide what to leave behind. Finally, and maybe most importantly, packing light for vacation saves you time! You won’t have to stand in line at the baggage counter waiting to check your bags, and you won’t have to wait for them on the other side of security, so it’s easier to get to your gate.
Plan For Delays
When it comes to holiday travel, delays are inevitable. Traffic can be awful around the holidays, so leave plenty of time to get from your home to the airport and within the terminals. If you’re flying during a popular period like Christmas or Thanksgiving, add an extra hour of travel time to ensure you get to the airport on time. Keep all your travel documents and contact information for your airline with you at all times so that if something goes wrong, you can quickly address any issues. In addition, consider adding travel insurance to your holiday vacation, as this can help cover costs if you cancel or postpone your trip for any reason.
Book Your Airport Parking In Advance
Whether traveling by plane, train, or car, it is important to plan your trip well in advance. One of the best ways to do this is by booking your airport parking well before your departure date. This will ensure you have a spot reserved and can avoid searching for parking on busy holiday travel days. There are various options for airport parking, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that is right for you. Some airports offer cheaper parking rates if you reserve online or book in advance. Also, consider locations that offer free shuttle services or covered parking spots to keep your car safe from the elements while you’re gone.
Take Advantage Of Travel Apps
Travel apps can be a beneficial resource when preparing for a holiday vacation. Many offer real-time updates on flight delays, so they can help you avoid any stressful situations at the airport. Some travel apps also allow you to track your frequent flier miles or rewards points, which can come in handy if you decide to change your travel plans or upgrade your ticket. In addition, many travel apps offer discounts and exclusive deals from local businesses in the area where you are traveling. These can help you save money on food, entertainment, and other expenses while you are away from home. So be sure to research and download a few travel apps that can make your trip more enjoyable.
Read Through The TSA Rules & Regulations
Whether you are traveling for work or pleasure, it is crucial to know the TSA’s rules and regulations before arriving at the airport. Make sure that you pack all of your carry-on luggage according to TSA guidelines, and remember that liquids must be in bottles no larger than 3.4 ounces or placed in a clear plastic bag. In addition, be sure to check the TSA’s website for any travel restrictions that may apply to your destination. For example, there may be a ban on specific electronic devices or other items at the airport in your destination country. This can help you avoid delays and further complications during security screening.
Be Prepared With These Holiday Travel Tips!
Regardless of where your plans are taking you this holiday season, it is important to prepare for potential delays and other issues that may arise. By following these simple holiday travel tips, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, whether flying to a nearby city or traveling halfway around the world. So be sure to do your research and plan ahead so you can focus on enjoying your trip when you finally arrive at your destination! After all, isn’t that what the holidays are all about?
