For all of the good tidings and well-wishes of the holiday season, it can still be a stressful time, especially while traveling. We all know that stress impacts our ability to be gracious and kind in our personal interactions, so let’s look at seven ways to alleviate our travel stress. These survival tips for holiday travel will help you save time, travel faster, and feel more relaxed. So when the moment comes for you to honor someone with a kind word or patient smile, you’ll be ready!
Air Travel
1. Early Check-in & Upgrades
Most airlines allow you to check-in 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. The earlier you check-in, the better your chances of having the same boarding zones as your loved ones, especially on Southwest. You can also purchase early bird check-in (SW Air) for $10-15 person, assuring you’ll have priority boarding on the flight. For Delta, choose preferred seating on economy flights in order to secure your seat in a desirable position. United also allows seat upgrades and priority selections, just check through the options when you book.
Normally, I don’t get worked up about extra fees at the airport, it feels like I’m paying enough already! However, during the busiest travel time of the year, the time saved standing in lines and worrying over seats is worse than the extra money. It’s nice to walk in to the airport with a clear head and tickets in hand!
2. Trick the Baggage Fees
Most major airlines charge baggage fees, with only Jet Blue and Southwest giving you a free checked bag (and Southwest allows two free bags). Those fees can range from $15-40 per bag, and even for a small family can result in a pretty big fee! Couple that with the time standing in line to check the bags, then waiting at baggage claim afterwards, and checking bags is a serious commitment.
The easiest way to skip the fees is by packing everything in your carry-on bag. The average allowable size of a carry-on is 45 linear inches, which can end up being a decent amount of space. If you require more, think about if you could ship your extra clothes and gifts via UPS or FedEx, which will likely cost $20 (depending on size and weight) and save you a ton of time at the airport.
3. Jump the Security Line
TSA Pre is a new service being offered, and allows you to go in a shorter line, and not remove shoes, belt, deal with the bags, etc. The catch? You do need to apply for the service and submit to a background check (it’s a government service), because only flyers deemed “low-risk” are being considered. Clear is another private service being offered in select airports across the country, and is in serious negotiations with a dozen others to bring in their rapid check-in process.
Car Travel
1. Audiobooks
Studies are showing that watching TV for long periods of time are making us unhappy, so why not consider an alternative for the long road trips? Get everyone a good book for the trip, or if reading in the car makes you nauseous, then Audible provides access to thousands of audiobooks. If you sign up for their membership plan, you’ll receive a book for free! You can always cancel before the payments start. Another good option is your local library, and I’ve always found a great selection at my branch.
2. Pre-Snacking
If you can remember and make time for snacking before travel, do it! Have a small meal or pack some snacks for the road before starting your drive, and your body will thank you! Many gas station snacks are unhealthy and will sap your energy in the long run. Making snacks at home will help keep your metabolism and energy in high-gear for those long trips. Here’s a great list of 22 road-worthy recipes to get your started.
3. Travel on the Fringes
Holiday traffic can be a miserable affair, and really zap your festive energy. If possible, travel in the wee hours of the night or early morning, especially in high traffic cities you may be going through. Even if you need to change drivers with a more regularity, the time saved with driving clear roads is nice. Then you’ll have an extra half-day with your family too! Note: Please be safe on the roads at all times, and pull over at a rest stop if you need to! Drowsy driving can be dangerous.
4. Bring a Light
This is just a little tip, but one I’ve found helpful over the years. I read a lot when we’re driving, but having the interior lights on at night can alter the driver’s vision and clarity. The solution I’ve found is to buy a little headlamp or flashlight to illuminate just my book and nothing else. It’s a win-win for everyone! Wal-Mart, Target, or your local sporting goods store will have something to fit your needs, and your head!
Regardless of the holiday you’re celebrating this season, I hope each and every one of you have a wonderful close to 2013. Look for my New Year’s Eve etiquette post next week, so you’ll be ready when the ball drops!
