Sean’s Travel Tips This Holiday Season!

With the holiday season in full swing, many of us are taking to the roads and airports to get to our loved ones homes. I’ve been traveling since I was young and when I say that I’ve been through it all…I am not lying. Rather than just complain about bad things that have happened to me, I figured I’d share some of my best tips for keeping your cool and making the best out of your holiday travels!Traveling

Do your research.

Sites such as Capecod.com will give you up to date traffic tips and road work construction that might be occurring. But also, if you’re traveling by road to somewhere off cape, make sure you take the time to see if the roads you plan on traveling on have any scheduled work. It will make for much easier travel!

Stay connected.

Travel apps such will help you see if your flight is on time and if there are any gate changes. Plus, things like GasBuddy and SitOrSquat will help you find the closest (and cleanest) bathrooms…I’m sort of a germaphobe so I live off these.

Pack light.

Seriously, some airlines are charging up to $100 for ONE CHECKED BAG!! I avoid checking luggage if I can.  There is nothing worse than waiting on baggage that might get lost somewhere in the airport netherworld and not knowing if your Christmas gifts are going to make it to Grandma’s house.  Plus, everything you THINK you need…like that hair dryer…is probably available at the hotel/house you’re staying at.

Pack earplugs.

Short of doing yoga in the airport, the best way to mentally escape your stressful surroundings is to turn the volume down. And the easiest way to do that is with earplugs. Crying baby next seat over on the plane? Earplugs. Sister’s music in the car driving you mad? Earplugs. And if you really want to check out for a bit? Bring an eye mask (as long as you aren’t driving).

Don’t get hangry. (hungry + angry)

Being hungry will throw off your entire mood. It can make seemingly little problems much more aggravating. I love stopping off at Lamberts and getting some healthy and filling snacks to take with me on the plane. It sure beats paying $7 for M&M’s in the terminal. Also, if you’re traveling with kids…snacks snacks snacks J

Travel early or late in the day.

Flight statistics show that planes traveling earlier in the day have a better on-time performance. And if your flight is cancelled, you will have the option of taking a flight later in the day. Also, there will be fewer lines at security. Best time to hit the road? When every one else is asleep — early morning or late at night. You can always take a nap when you arrive at your destination or on the ride there (if you aren’t the driver, of course).

Plan for the unexpected.

Have only a half hour before connecting to another flight? Traveling to perhaps Buffalo NY, during snow season? Think ahead and plan accordingly. Leave extra time before flights to deal with security, extra time between connections and, for road trips, pack tire chains for snowy conditions, flashlights, and of course, a few band-aids never hurt either.

Inhale. Exhale.

Just breathe. Relax and realize that sometimes thing happen that are out of your control and everyone on that plane or in that traffic is dealing with the same stress as you are. No need to flip out, just breathe.

 



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