Rebecca's Travel Notes

Are you traveling over the long Thanksgiving weekend? I am. I will be heading to New York. I enjoy traveling during the holidays. There is a festive spirit in the air everywhere you go. I thought I would share some Thanksgiving travel tips to help make your holiday journey smoother.

1. Plan Early

• Plan Now: If you have not started your Thanksgiving travel itinerary, plan right now. Delays could cost you and your family more money for last minute travel. On longer road trips, I use a travel agency or join a planned tour.
• Book Flights/Accommodations ASAP: Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times. Try to book as far in advance as possible. This helps secure the best rates.
• Consider Alternative Airports: Flying into or out of smaller, nearby airports can sometimes save time and money.

2. Travel Smart

• Avoid Peak Travel Days: Typically, the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after are the busiest. Traveling on off days, like Monday or Thanksgiving morning, can help.
• Pack Light: Avoid checked luggage if possible to save time at baggage claim. If you are bringing gifts, consider shipping them in advance.

3. Prepare for Road Trips

• Check Your Vehicle: Make sure your car is in good shape for your road trip. Check tire pressure, fluids, and brakes, and have an emergency kit on hand.
• Download Navigation Apps: Waze and Google Maps can alert you to traffic or accidents, helping you find faster routes.

4. Pack Essentials

• Travel Comfort Kit: Neck pillow, earplugs, a cozy blanket, and snacks can make a long journey more comfortable.
• Hand Sanitizer: With crowded spaces, bring extra hygiene supplies to stay safe. Mini hand sanitizers or wipes are great for travel.

5. Plan for Delays

• Stay Flexible: Keep your itinerary adaptable in case of delays. Pack a few extra snacks and have activities for kids if traveling as a family. Even as an adult, I need activities to keep me busy. I play games on my phone. Of course, I spend time on social media.
• Keep Electronics Charged: Carry a portable charger to avoid running out of power on the go.
• Be Patient: Being patient is difficulty during delays, back-ups, or layovers. Remember customer service representatives are doing their best over the holiday season.

6. Download Helpful Apps

• Airline and Hotel Apps: Many provide real-time updates on flight status, check-in, and more. I am traveling with a bus tour. So, I am fortunate to have everything planned before I go.
• Food Delivery Apps: These are handy for quick meals. Use them if you’re stuck at an airport. They are also helpful if you are delayed on the road too. Getting food delivered directly to you is fast and easy for travel. I have used different food apps for delivery right to my hotel.

Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy your trip! Safe travels.