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Surviving Holiday Travel

Surviving Holiday Travel

Don’t worry, surviving holiday travel isn’t that hard! Visiting relatives. Escaping the snow. Taking time off of work. You’ve got a big trip planned this holiday season and instead of roasting nuts by the fire you’ll be fighting traffic jams or long flight lines. Here are some tips so you don’t end up on the naughty list.

If you are flying with gifts never pre-wrap them, they will get opened. If you can, travel with small gifts such as gift cards. If you decide to travel with bigger gifts, especially toys, try to pick items that don’t come in an enclosed box. Security will most likely open them and the box may get damaged, making your gift not as visually appealing. Other options include making an agreement to not exchange gifts, buy them once you reach your destination, or ship them to ahead of time.
If you are going on a vacation to an unfamiliar area research restaurants, stores, and other fun places near your hotel and print off maps from Google or MapQuest. You can choose routes that don’t include main roads which may cut down on traffic.
Book flights for a week before the holiday or on the actual holiday such as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Most people will want to be at their destination before the holiday so lines will be shorter. Pick flights that leave earlier in the morning. It tends to be less crowded and allows you to deal with any mishaps that may occur.
If you are driving to your destination leave early in the morning or late in the evening when people tend to be sleeping. There will be less traffic and it will cut down on the stress of being caught in a jam. Gas up your vehicle the day before you leave so the day of you can just pack and leave.
Be nice to all of the employees you meet. They want to spend time with their families just as much as you do during the holidays. Simple things such as saying please and thank you and giving a smile can make a big difference. Remember that airport employees have no control over the weather or delayed flights. If you have ask them for information or what to do if your flight is cancelled talk to them in a calm manner. They will be more willing to help you out if you don’t yell at them. Surviving holiday travel can be tricky, but you can do it with these quick tips!
Cathryn Yandric is a graduate of the University of Michigan Dearborn. She is an avid reader and blog poster.

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