The holiday season accounts for nearly 10 percent of all miles traveled by Americans during the entire year. Planes are overbooked and highways are overcrowded, making most of us hardly overflowing with holiday cheer.
Keep Your Sanity
To keep travel worries from ruining your holiday plans, learn to manage your stress with a little planning. To start, try using some of the following tips – they can help you stay in control during your trip.
If you are flying:
- Do not delay! Make your reservations well in advance to make sure you have a wide array of flight times 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 in case your flight is cancelled.
- Call to confirm that your flight is still on time before leaving for the airport. Delayed or cancelled flights are a major cause of holiday stress.
- Stay hydrated. Drink at least eight ounces of water every hour; it will help with jet lag and other health concerns.
- Pack wisely! Keep prescriptions, glasses, and other overnight basics in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost. Keep in mind that many airlines now charge for checking a bag as well.
- Fight boredom! Pack quiet activities to help pass the time, especially if you are traveling with children.
If you are driving:
- Be prepared – Have a professional mechanic examine your vehicle before you leave. Also, be sure to pack emergency and first aid kits in case of a breakdown.
- Know your route! Get out your map and plot out your best route before leaving. There are many Internet map sites to help aid with this.
- Watch your time! Plan to do most of your driving during non-rush hour times to avoid the holiday rush.
- Take a break! Rest about every two hours and limit yourself to an eight-hour driving day. Stop at rest areas so you can walk around and stretch out. You’ll want to stop more frequently if traveling with small children or a dog.
- Lay off the caffeine – Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals. It will help you feel better once you reach your destination.
- Wear safety belts at all times! They are the single most effective means of reducing traffic injuries.
Material posted on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a legal opinion or medical advice. Contact your legal representative or medical professional for information specific to your legal or medical needs.
