15 New Years Travel Tips - Magazine Article

This article is from our print magazine issued January 1st 2022. To order a copy of the magazine please do so here.

The holidays are over and you have a chance to think about your personal time and enjoy some quality rest and relaxation. If you plan on traveling in the United States during January and February here are 15 New Year’s Traveling Tips to think about.

1. Book Early - You are not the only person thinking of starting their new year with a fresh start. If you book early you can get better deals and time selections. There is still a lot of cold weather during this time and delays and flight changes can create that R & R to go right out the door.

2. Watch Weather - The temperatures in January and February in many states are still seeing snow. You want to watch the weather of your travel location so you don’t get caught in bad weather.

3. Book earliest flight for the day - This will ensure if they’re any delays you can catch the next flight or at least a flight the same day. Early flights can also have more room available so you can be more comfortable on the plane.

4. Shop flights with free baggage - Currently, there are only two airlines we’re aware of that allow for free checked baggage and those are Southwest Airlines and Cape Airlines. Shop these airlines first to see if you can get a great deal and free baggage.

5. Shop Airbnb or Hotel - Both have their benefits depending on cost, comfortability and number of guests. Check out both near your location and decide which would be better. Some Airbnb homes can be more affordable than hotels. Some hotels can be in a better location than an Airbnb.

6. Buy traveller’s insurance - If you decide to cancel your trip without traveller’s insurance you will get a credit instead of a refund, if you decide to change your trip for any reason. Don’t go through the hassle of trying to use credits for an airline that may not offer the same great deals going to another destination. Be safe and get a refund.

7. Book ground transportation early - There have been cases where no rental cars were available upon getting into local airports. Don’t get stuck paying for Ubers everywhere if that wasn’t your plan. Book your rental car or other ground transportation early so you are sure to have a way to get around on your vacation.

8. Pack Snacks - You never know what the new year travel craze will be. Make sure to avoid spending tons of money in the airport by packing a few snacks. There could be delays, reschedules and long wait times. Make sure, especially when traveling with kids, to have some type of snack available. As long as it is small you can get through TSA with it.

9. TSA Pre-check - If you can go online and get TSA Pre-checked. You will be guided though the airport security system with ease. You will not have to remove shoes, liquids, laptops, light jackets, or your belt.

10. Fly into smaller airports - If you have the opportunity to fly into a smaller less used airport you could save money, time and have less risk of rescheduled flights. Parking is usually less expensive and they are less crowded.

11. Bring multiple mask - Although many places are not requiring mask, many places have started to mandate them again. With cold weather you cold breathe a bit heavier and the cold and heat contract causing a steam that could ruin your mask. Have multiple available so you can switch throughout your trip.

12. Try to fly on a Tuesday or Thursday - These days are less expensive and less crowded. The most expensive travel days are Friday and Sunday. Most people are leaving or coming on those days. Try to avoid them and you could save money.

13. Watch airline sales - Right after the holidays airlines have sales to boost their sales. Watch for those sales and you could end up with a round trip flight for as low as $59.

14. Invest in a luggage cover - Luggage covers can help save your luggage. Once your luggage is checked in, it goes through a scanner then on the plane. During this process it is tossed around and scratched up from this move. To keep your luggage looking new get a luggage cover.

15. Pick a hotel or Airbnb with plenty to do nearby - To avoid long travel once you’ve checked it, stay at a place with restaurants, museums, and other things to do near by. It can save you time driving to do things daily and those hotels may offer discounts.

Stay safe, stay focused and stay traveling. Happy Travels.