Holiday Travel Tips: Thanksgiving Kicks Off Travel Traditions

Photo Credit: IgoUgo.com

Holiday traditions? Every Thanksgiving, a tradition for many travelers is making the trek to New York City to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (airs live on November 27^th, 2008 at 9am EST on NBC). For those who do not make the trip, they can still witness this amazing event from the comfort of their home. Meanwhile, others take to the air and roads for their own holiday celebrations.

Thanksgiving is often boasted as one of the most traveled holidays via air and car. From day trips to long weekends, travelers are preparing for what could be a busy few days on the roads and in the air.  For Thanksgiving alone, TripAdvisor® reports that 37 percent of Americans plan to travel this Thanksgiving, which is equal to those traveling last year.

Fifty-seven percent of respondents plan to drive to their destination this Thanksgiving, down slightly from 59 percent, last year, while 38 percent intend to fly, up marginally from 37 percent, one year ago, according to the TripAdvisor survey.

“The holiday season is always the year’s busiest time for travel, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating,” according to the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) President and CEO Chris Russo. “One sure way to make holiday trips smoother is by having a travel agent take care of all your travel details. Travel agents’ always have inside information and can make holiday travel a lot less stressful.”

ASTA has prepared some travel tips for both air and car trips to help ensure smooth travels. Tips for air travel include:

• Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates–ask your ASTA travel agent to check into holiday fares; the slow week between Christmas and New Year’s; or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your holiday vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport.
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don’t be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the “standby” seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines place special restrictions during the holidays and allow only one carry-on.

Tips for travel by car include:

• Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
• Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car’s gas mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.
• Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they’ve eaten with their families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.

Taking some time for preparation and planning results in travels with less-stress and anxiety…allowing time to celebrate the season.

Do you plan to travel this holiday season? If so, where are you going and how are you traveling?