Elizabeth Dehn - HER LIFE Magazine

travelHolida y Travel TipsBy Kathl een m. KruegerFeasting with family, recollecting memories andcreating new ones, getting reconnected with theones we love; all of these have become part of thetraditional holiday season. These joyful expectations are oftenaccompanied by the slightly more stressful necessity of planningtravel during the busiest travel time of the year.Whether you are flying or driving to your destination,there are several tips that can help make your travel lessstressful.Book early and book smartWhether it is airplane flights, hotel rooms or train tickets,make sure and book your reservations as soon as possible. Flexibilitywith your travel dates and destinations can also help youget better prices and less crowded accommodations. Instead ofchecking just one ski lodge, keep your options open and lookfor deals at other locations as well. Traveling on the holidaydate itself can mean fewer crowds than the day before, if thatis a possibility for your schedule. Selecting flight times early orlate in the day can also mean less crowded flights than duringmidday hours. A little extra time reviewing the possibilities canbe quite worthwhile.Watch the weatherYou may not be able to change the weather, but keepingyourself informed of expected storms in the days leading upto your travel can help you make adjustments to your plansinstead of being caught off guard. Remember that weatherconditions in other areas of the country can create delays andcancellations for flights in your area too.if you're driving in cold weather areas, make sure andinclude emergency gear in your trunk: a shovel, blankets, sandand flashlight. Make sure you have boots, hats and gloves withyou, in addition to your winter jacket. Always keep a wellchargedcell phone with you too.Ship presents aheadinstead of taking up expensive luggage space with yourgifts, it can often be less expensive to ship them separately. Thiswill also ensure that the gifts arrive on time, even if you don't.For an even simpler option, send gift cards rather than packagedgifts.Pack lightif you can avoid checking bags and are able to packeverything in your carry-on bag, you can save time both beforeand after your flight. Waiting for luggage at the baggagecarousel will only cut into your precious holiday time.Check airline baggage rulesKnow exactly what size and weight will be accepted forcarry-on baggage. If you plan to bring sports equipment (suchas skis or golf clubs) on the plane, make sure to package themexactly as outlined in the regulations for your airline.Snacks and drinksRegardless of what mode of transportation you are using,pack snacks ahead of time to tide everyone over during thetrip. This can be especially helpful if you end up sitting on the44 HERLIFEmagazine.com