Holiday travel can be summed up into one word: STRESSFUL! Whether you’re a first time or frequent flier, these holiday travel tips post will be beneficial. Alleviate the stress in preparing for a trip by reading some things I’ve learned below.
Flight Search
We’ve all been guilty of trying to book last minute flights especially around the holidays, but there are ways to find deals and book your flight at the right price.
Skyscanner is a site that scours the web to help you find the cheapest flight possible.
Hopper is a phone app that allows you to “watch” flights to see when you can purchase a flight at the cheapest rate. It’s the main app I use when deciding what time of year to travel to certain places and will definitely be using it more in 2019.
Luggage/Packing
You’ve probably read a lot of tips online on how to pack when traveling but I wanted to share some tips that I personally have found to be super helpful:
Opt for a hardside vs. a soft side suitcase in the fall/winter times, mainly due to more extreme weather conditions like heavy rain and snow.
Measure your carry on to make sure that it adheres to carry on specifics for your flight. I would say that a suitcase that around 9″ x 14″ x 22″ will be your best bet.
If you’re a hat wearer like me and you want to travel with them, pack them downwards in your suitcase. That way, you have space to fill around and inside the hat with rolled up clothes or some toiletries.
Keep your essentials in your carry on. In the case of a lost luggage or any circumstances with your luggage that are outside of your control.
If you’re needing to pack coats, fold the coat over once and lay that on the bottom of the suitcase. Trying to fold it multiple times only takes up space that can be occupied by other things
Since you can have a carryon and personal item to take on the plane, I always opt for a medium to large backpack instead of a purse. I can fit more items and since the weight is evenly distributed on my back, I find I’m better able to walk (or run if needed) through the terminals.
Get a personalized bag tag so you can easily identify your luggage. The likelihood of someone on your flight having your exact luggage is fairly high so this will save you the hassle of accidentally taking someone else’s belongings.
At the Airport
I used to find myself getting very flustered at the airport between checking in and going through security. But the number of times I’ve now flown, I think I finally have it all figured it out!
Get to the airport an additional 2-3 hours earlier than what is recommended. Holiday travel means super busy airports and security line wait times may be longer than usual (note: especially post covid, things have gotten even slower during this season).
Wear shoes that can easily slip on and off like slip on laceless running shoes or flats if you’re wanting to look a bit more dressed up. Your toes get to stay warm, and you avoid the hassle of buckles, zippers, and laces that can be a pain. Not to mention, hold up the security line.
Download your airline’s app so you can:
Have your boarding pass on your phone
Get an update if a flight is delayed
See check in times
Have your laptop in your purse or backpack instead of your carry on to make it easier to pull out when going through security.
Stock your carry on with snacks! Airport food is expensive. Don’t justify spending $20 on a bag of chips (that end up being 40% enclosed air).
If you’re taking a Lyft/Uber from the airport, check all signs properly. Some airports now have certain areas where Rideshares are all picked up.
If you have to pay for baggage, set that money aside in another card (like a Cash app or Paypal card), and pay for the bags on card. Same with any airport expenses; to avoid overspending, load money onto another card and that’s your “money to use at the airport” card.
Phew! I know this list was somewhat exhaustive. But I hope this helps you all as you prepare for your holiday travels!
All Photography by Kristen Ashley
Tracey | 8th Nov 18
So many great tips!