Traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday can be extremely busy and stressful as millions of Americans flood the airports trying to get to their destination. Though there may be flight delays and other problems, there are several things you can do to make your holiday travel easier.
Book your trip well in advance
Be aware that flights, hotels and rental cars get booked quickly during the holiday season. If you begin making your plans late, try to travel on Thanksgiving Day or two days prior rather than the day before when airports are the busiest.
Pack as little as possible
If you can avoid checking your baggage, you will be able to save time and energy at the airport. You also won’t be at risk for losing your luggage. If you need to bring a lot of things with you, consider shipping them ahead to your destination.
Try to travel early in the morning
Morning flights are delayed less often than afternoon and evening departures. Try to book a non-stop flight or one with very few connections and stops, as each time you have to stop, you risk more delays.
Spend the night at the airport hotel
If you have a flight in the morning hours, you can consider spending the night before your departure at the airport hotel. Thatway you won’t have to worry about early morning traffic. The hotel may also allow you to leave your car in its parking lot for a small fee.
Be prepared for delays
Delays happen, especially during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season. Bring snacks, bottled water, a few books, CDs and a CD player, your laptop computer or other means of entertainment. If your flight does get delayed, try to relax and make the best of it.
- Thanksgiving – Learn more about the holiday.
- Thanksgiving for Kids – Fun holiday activities for children
- Thanksgiving Dinner – Recipes and entertaining on Thanksgiving
- Air Travel – Resources for airlines, airports and more
- Thanksgiving Travel – More Thanksgiving travel tips
