Our Top Holiday Travel Tips-Exclusive to Purple Light by Travel Writer Tonya Denmark

How to survive holiday travel?

It’s that time of year…when the world travels far and near. If you’re going home for the holidays or getting out of town for the holidays, we have a few simple pieces of advice on how to survive (or avoid) the madness that can be holiday travel.

Plan Ahead

While it’s too late for travel next week, we recommend doing the TSA Pre-Check for future flights. It will help getting through security at the airport with no need to remove shoes, laptops, belts and light jackets. Most of the nation’s top airlines expedite your security screening if you have gone through the TSA pre-check process.

If you’re not set up for Pre-check, you can still save time by pre-planning. Print your boarding passes at home, have your luggage tagged with your destination address, wear easy to remove shoes and get to the airport early. Better yet, book a car service like Uber or Mozio for transportation both to and from the airport.

Flights and Delays

Depending on where you’re flying, weather can be an issue. Plan ahead by booking an early flight if possible. Also, consider using a luggage shipping service, especially if you’re traveling with skis or other large packages. Then you can board with only a carry-on and that gets you in and out of the airport that much faster.

If your flight is delayed or canceled, consider calling the international number for the airline rather than the domestic. You’ll pay international calling charges, but you’ll likely get through much faster. Text or call your travel advisor as well so he can start working behind the scenes to get you rebooked and on your way faster.

En Route

Depending on long you’ll be on the road or in the air, you’ll want to plan for some delays due to weather and/or traffic as well. Entertainment is key to passing the time for both children and adults. However, batteries only last so long and plugging in at the airport may not be ideal. I highly recommend a portable battery charger that can charge any USB device. MyCharge comes in a variety of styles. My favorite is the RazorUltra that has two USB slots and provides up to 90 hours of power, enough for a weekend road trip.

Outside of entertainment, consider packing snacks and food. Avoid the pricey airport food and eat whenever hunger strikes, for you, your honey or the kids. Avoid any “hangry” moments with power bars, trail mix, water, apples, dried fruit and the like.

The Spirit of the Holidays

No matter whether you’re traveling towards family, or to get away from the crowds, remember the spirit of the holidays and those that are working to get you where you’re going. Extra gratitude this time of year can go a long way.

We hope you have a pleasant and joyful holiday season and safe travels no matter how far or near you’re traveling!