The holiday season is the busiest time of the year for long-distance travel. Flights are often overbooked and highways are overcrowded, which can add stress to the season.
To keep travel worries from ruining your holiday plans, reduce your stress by planning ahead. Use the following tips to help you stay in control during your trip.
Holiday Travel Tips: Flying
Do not delay purchasing tickets
Make your reservations well in advance to make sure you have many flight times, prices and seats to choose from.
Choose your ticket wisely
Travel on off-peak days and during early morning hours whenever possible. Airports tend to be less crowded during these times, which will make it easier to get another reservation if your flight is canceled.
Confirm flight and check-in online
Call or check online to confirm that your flight is still on time before leaving for the airport. Check in for your flight online, if possible, to avoid waiting in line at the airport.
Stay hydrated
Drink water frequently to avoid jet lag.
Pack wisely
Avoid checking luggage, but if you have to, keep prescriptions, glasses and other overnight basics in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost. Keep in mind that most airlines charge fees for checking luggage.
Fight boredom
Pack activities to help pass the time, especially if traveling with children.
Holiday Travel Tips: Driving
Be prepared
Have a mechanic examine your vehicle before your trip. Also, be sure to pack emergency and first aid supplies in case your car breaks down.
Know your route
Plot out your route before leaving, and bring a map. Make sure your phone is fully charged if you plan on using smartphone maps or bring along a GPS.
Save time
Try to do most of your driving during non-rush hour times to avoid the bad traffic.
Take a break
Rest every two hours and limit yourself to eight hours of driving each day. Stop at rest areas to walk around and stretch. Make more frequent stops if traveling with small children or pets.
Lay off the caffeine
Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals. Drinking caffeine may make you crash a few hours later.
Wear safety belts at all times
When used correctly, they significantly reduce the number of serious traffic injuries and fatalities.
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Hire a Nanny to Help with Holiday Stress
Whether you’re traveling or staying home, having an extra hand to help occupy the children can be a real relief. Our experienced, thoroughly screened caregivers can take care of the kids so you have time to finish shopping, wrapping, cooking, or any other holiday activity. Or they can help clean and organize your home before your guests arrive. And if you will be leaving town, we have pet sitters to take care of your furry family members who won’t be making the trip with you.
Contact us at (518) 348-0400 to request one of our amazing caregivers, or to get help with babysitting, after-school care, housekeeping, pet sitting, and more!