How to Plan the Successful Holiday Travel

Why Not Fly Free

Nothing spoils the holidays faster than a miserable trip getting there, so taking the time to plan your trip just may be the very thing that keeps it happy. Here are some tips to planning your trip.
Save money by contacting a travel agent well in advance of your departure date. The lowest-priced fares, hotel rooms and rental car fees can be obtained by securing them far in advance of the holiday season.Pack light to save energy, time and money. You also should check with your particular airline as some will place special restrictions on carry-ons during the holiday season because of the higher demand for space.Save on airline space by shipping your gifts instead of taking them with you. Allow at least two to three weeks for your package to arrive at your destination because both Federal Express and UPS are busy during the holidays.Make sure that before you leave on your holiday trip, your home, plants, and pets are secure and well cared for. Pet sitters will often times care for the plants and home as well, so they are a good investment and will give you peace of mind.

Don't forget to have someone collect the mail and newspapers so that it won't look like no one is home at your house. You should have your lights set on timers so that they come on at different times. Check to be sure that you locked all windows and doors and turned off the oven and stove before leaving. Do NOT leave any message on your answering machine or voicemail that indicates you are leaving for a trip.Avoid peak travel days at the airport like the day before or the day after a holiday. Book your flight two days before a holiday. Try to book a non-stop flight if possible.
If you have an early flight, consider sleeping over at an airport hotel the night before and taking an airport shuttle right from the hotel to the airport the next day.If traveling by car always have the car serviced by a certified mechanic. Make sure they check the fluid levels, brakes, tire pressures, and any other car part that needs regular maintenance. Bring along jumper cables, extra fluids, maps, first aid kit, flashlights, blankets, water, snacks, flares, ice scraper, chains for the tires and also a cell phone.Traveling with kids by car or air means bringing snacks and something to keep them busy like games, toys or music. If they will be sleeping during the trip bring blankets and pillows.
Good planning is essential for a safe and happy holiday trip so take the time to plan.