This time of year calls for icy road conditions, congested
highways and airports, flight delays, and winter colds! For some, this can be
an overwhelming and frustrating experience when trying to reach your destination.
Whether you’re traveling by air or hitting the road, use
these holiday travel safety tips to improve your experience and help you make
it to your destination safely:
Plan
ahead
If traveling by air, ensure you have planned your flights
accordingly. Unfortunately, layovers are
very common, especially when traveling long distance. Always allow at least 1-2
hours in between your flights just in case delays occur. If you plan on driving
to your destination, map out your routes and prepare alternates just in case
there are accidents, detours or unexpected traffic delays. GPS systems built
into phones are great but can be unreliable. Try using MapQuest or Roadtrippers to
get printed directions and explore alternate routes.
Prepare
your vehicle
No matter what distance you plan on traveling this holiday
season, always ensure that your vehicle is in tip top shape. Nothing would be
worse than being stuck on the side of the road in cold weather waiting for your
trusty roadside
assistance to come to the rescue. Plan to have your car
serviced and inspected prior to traveling
in the winter weather. It’s also recommended to keep a car
safety kit in your vehicle in case of an accident or emergency
situation!
Expect
the unexpected
Lost luggage at airports is more common than you think.
Always pack an extra outfit and any important items such as medication or phone
chargers in your carry-on baggage. This way, you will always have it on hand
when needed. When driving to your destination, always expect traffic delays
especially when traveling on popular highways. During the holidays, roads can
become congested. Stay alert while driving to avoid a possible
accident from occurring.
Leave a
trail
Regardless of where you plan on traveling over the holidays,
it’s always best to let someone know your plans. This could be a member of your
family, a friend, or a neighbor. Leave copies of your itinerary and driving routes, photocopies of important
documents and phone numbers with this person. If they need to contact you, or
you get stuck in a pinch, this person can help! It’s best to plan for the
unexpected so that you’re prepared in the case of an emergency.
Take care
of yourself
Stay hydrated and alert, especially when driving. Driver’s
fatigue can happen to anyone. Take breaks when driving long
distances to stretch, rest and refuel. When traveling anywhere, frequently wash
your hands with soap and carry anti-bacterial hand sanitizer. High-populated
areas such as airports, buses and trains are full of germs and the last thing
you want is to be sick while traveling this holiday season.
For some, traveling during the holidays can be a
scary thought. But, by using these holiday travel safety tips, you are sure to
have fun and make it to your destination safely. 
