How To Avoid Travel Delays This Thanksgiving

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

There are many people traveling during the holiday season. Some are last minute and others have had these reservations for months. Either way, you want to avoid being stuck at an airport or between cities when traveling this holiday season. Here are some quick tips to avoid travel delays that could cost you time or money.

Arrive at the airport early - even though you have a time to depart, travel is busier during the holidays and being early can determine if you make your departure time.

Make sure you have a travel ID or license - You don’t want to get delayed for having the ID or license that is no longer used for travel

If you’re driving out of town, get your car serviced - making sure you have an oil change, tires are good and everything has been double checked, allows you to have a comfortable ride with less issues along the way.

Pack early - no matter if you’re flying or driving to avoid forgetting something start packing a week early.

Avoid flying on an already booked flight - when you find a flight that isn’t packed (which is hard during the holidays) you run less risk of over seating and loading delays

Try to leave as early as possible - when you fly or drive the earlier you leave in the day, the better. You beat travel traffic, long lines and avoidable delays

Book a rental car early - If you book your rental car early, you avoid running the possibility that there are no cars available.

Carry your vaccination card - If you’re vaccinated and carry your card, it is easy for you to show proof that could otherwise cause a delay in some states.

Understand there could be staffing shortages - during the holidays, like you, many people take vacation, plan to deal with staffing shortages and plan accordingly

If traveling with kids, pack a snack - If you are traveling with little kids, make sure you pack enough snacks for each one. They are always hungry and have to use the bathroom at the wrong time. If you pack a snack you can keep them held over until you find a place to eat.

No matter what, travel during the holidays can be very unexpected. These tips can help you avoid delays and travel complications. Now where are you headed this holiday season? Stay safe, stay focused and stay traveling. Happy Travels.