As I watched some of my friends preparing for their Christmas travel, some questions/debates came up about traveling to the airport. They asked me what tips do I have.
So here are my best 10 tips for Christmas Holiday to help preparing for an enjoyable Christmas travel experience.
1. Everything has an expiry date
So does your passport. You need 6 months before expiry date from the date of travel. Make sure that you have proper travel documentation for everyone to travel to destination, including children and infants. This happened to my family where as my husband’s passport has expired. In any way he could travel.
So as I traveled with the children, he headed to the UK passport office.
2. In-flight entertainment
Generally Airlines have a good in-flight entertainment system. You can connect on to your own laptop through an app on your iPhone or tablet. You can download the latest version of the airline’s iPhone app for free access to hours of movies and TV programs. Nevertheless reminder to pack some books, magazines, tablets and laptops loaded with entertainment, likewise small games or toys for young ones.
3. Check-in
- Airlines offer some check-in options: Online-check-in-/ Mobile check-in/- Self-serve kiosk.
- Online-checking can be done 24 hours before scheduled departure.
- Check-in on your mobile device by using airline’s app or mobile-optimized website.
- Self-serve check-in kiosks are available at airports
- I still prefer the old fashion face to face check-in.
- All passengers must be presented at check-in.
4. Christmas time is the busiest travel period, so plan to arrive early
Be prepared for large crowds at airports. Make your travel plans even smoother by arrive no less than two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
5. A brand new bag for Christmas
Carry-on baggage must meet airline size requirements. Only one piece of carry-on baggage and one personal item are permitted. Know your Baggage Allowances as each airline has its own luggage allowance policies. Luggage restrictions can include, size, weight and number of bags permitted. I have seen people hid bags at check-in and then have to pay prior to boarding. Off course not very happy about it.
6. Take care of your belongings
Above all be sure you pack passport, money, medication, mobile devices and valuable items into carry-on.
7. Presents wrapping for Christmas
It is very tempting however do not wrap the presents. Airport security may ask you to open items in checked or carry-on baggage.
8. Want to take your pet with you?
This is a no-no to and from the UK. Once you book your ticket, book a kennel for your pets or make necessary arrangements
9. Devices
Make sure all batteries on all your devices are fully charged.
10. Take Patience with you during Christmas
Travelling during Christmas time can be stressful so be prepared. Therefore allow enough time to travel to the airport. I like to arrive early as I can have a coffee and relax.
A little bit of patience goes a long way. Consequently this will help making the journey much more bearable.
In comparison with road travel, train, I believe the pressure is the same-
So wherever you go this Christmas- Have a safe journey.
It’s Christmas Let the fun begin.
For some travel quotes to enjoy during your travel.