The Thanksgiving holiday is a time for family, friends, and food. Lots and lots of food. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t want to think about traveling during this already hectic time of year. But sometimes you just can’t avoid it. Whether you’re going to visit family or friends or you’re just looking to get away from all the turkey-induced coma-inducing tryptophan, here are a few tips to make your Thanksgiving travel a little less stressful.
- Book Early
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that everyone else is trying to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday too. That means that flights and hotels will fill up quickly. So, if you know you’re going to be traveling, book your flights and accommodation as soon as possible. Not only will this save you money, but it will also give you some peace of mind knowing that your travel plans are all set. - Be Flexible With Your Dates
If you have some flexibility with when you travel, take advantage of it. Traveling mid-week is usually cheaper and there are often fewer crowds at airports and on planes. If you can swing it, leave on Wednesday and return on Sunday instead of traveling on the busiest days which are typically the Tuesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after. - Pack Light
This one is especially important if you’re flying. Most airlines have strict baggage restrictions these days, so it’s important to only pack the essentials. You can always buy anything else you might need when you reach your destination. And trust me, there will be plenty of stores open on Turkey Day! - Bring Snacks
No one wants to be hangry (hungry + angry) while they’re stuck in airport security or on a delayed flight. So make sure to pack some snacks in your carry-on bag to tide you over until you can finally sit down for a proper meal. Nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and trail mix are all great options that won’t take up too much space in your bag. - Stay Connected With Technology
There’s nothing worse than being out of touch with what’s going on in the world while you’re traveling. Make sure to bring along your laptop, tablet, or smartphone so that you can stay connected with what’s going on back home or at work (if you really can’t escape it). And don’t forget your chargers! Nothing is worse than being stranded without a way to recharge your devices.
Thanksgiving is a busy time of year for travelers. But with a little planning and forethought, it doesn’t have to be as stressful as it seems. By following these simple tips, you can make your Thanksgiving travel go smoothly and maybe even enjoy yourself in the process!