The holidays can be stressful. And if you have to travel, it can add another layer of stress to an already busy time of the year.
There are many ways to make air travel less stressful if it is necessary.
Book early. Chances are that airfares will go up as fuel prices continue to fluctuate. As soon as possible, lock in the best fares for the best seats.
You can send your luggage and gifts to us ahead of time through shipping companies. It may cost more, but it will reduce the weight of your luggage and the likelihood that it will be stolen, damaged, or lost.
– Before leaving your home, verify the status of your airport. The Federal Aviation Administration can provide information about delays in air traffic control, weather, arrivals, and departures. www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/usmap.jsp.
– Leave your laptop at home. Another way to lessen your workload is to use remote-access software. Remote-access programs are available for free.
LogMeIn (https://secure.log)
mein.com/products/free/) on your home and work computers and then log in securely from a computer at your destination -; whether it’s a hotel or Grandma’s house.
Rent a car with GPS. Buy a compact, affordable unit that you can take along. You will never get lost. This peace of mind is almost unbeatable.
– Print everything and keep it in a manila file. These include itineraries, boarding pass and confirmations of hotel or car rental bookings. If you need to cancel or be delayed, ensure that the customer service numbers are clearly written on these documents. After you have completed the segment, throw away the paper and start the next.
– You haven’t flown for a while. Traveling with children? Transportation Security Administration offers helpful advice about packing, security procedures, and how to ensure your family is able to pass through airport checkpoints smoothly. You can find the most recent information at www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm.
A suitcase filled with relief is worth an ounce of planning when it comes to traveling these days.
