Christmas is on the way, and for millions of people around the world, that means one thing: Vacation! And while the pleasures of the holiday season – from the twinkling lights to home-cooked food – are just around the corner, the hassles of traveling during this busy time can eclipse the fun. Below we’ll list some essential tips and facts about travel at this time of year, so you can more easily navigate the Christmas travel maze.
Don’t wrap your gifts! Not until you reach your destination, that is. If you pack wrapped gifts in your bags, you run the risk that they’ll be opened and searched by airport security—and then you don’t just lose the perfect wrapping paper you picked out, you’ll also be left high and dry without any wrapping or packaging materials. It’s frustrating because the most convenient way to wrap gifts is to let the store do it for no extra charge, which is usually possible. (This is not counting the gift-wrapping works of art from various department stores such as Macys in Manhattan, which come at a price.) But there is also the option to send the gift via mail gift ahead of time—which is also a way to lighten your luggage.
Be aware of peak season surcharges. Starting this month and for the rest of 2010, airlines such as Delta, Northwest and US Airways will be charging between $10 and $30 in surcharges for all peak times, and that of course includes Christmas. (February 8th might be the worst day to travel, racking up $50 in surcharges on some airlines because of the Superbowl.)
You pay per plane. You might have found a great deal to your destination – but does it include connecting flights? Travelers now pay $10 per plane in federal security fees. Add up the cost of the inbound and the outbound flights, plus the peak season surcharges, and you can end up with a hefty number. This is all very well if you’re aware of it before booking—just don’t get hit with surprises later.
Be prepared for delays. It’s inevitable: With millions of people traveling at the same time of year, you’re going to get hit with long lines, delays and security checks. If you’re prepared for the long wait with a book (or Kindle), you’re better off. If there are kids in the mix, the situation gets more complicated. Come prepared with games and other distractions, and you’ll be one of the smarter families in line. Always take your cellphone charger with you in your carry-on luggage, in case of emergency.
Forget about getting home on the weekend. By now, if you haven’t booked a flight home yet, the weekend flights are either booked solid or going for astronomical fares. But the cloud has a silver lining: Booking after the weekend, especially Tuesday, is a smart financial move. Almost any other time is better. If you won’t be disappointing any loved ones and can avoid traveling on Christmas, it’s better to travel during one of the less eventful weeks of January. What you miss out on in lights and holiday cheer, you’ll make up for in cost and convenience.
We at WorldMate would like to wish you safe travels and a very happy holiday!
Such a nice pic
Posted by: Log Cabin Holidays | March 16, 2010 at 04:43 AM