What’s up everybody?
Well Christmas is right around the corner. This can be a stressful time for us, but it can take on a new level of stress for those that have to travel. For this post I thought that I would change it up a bit and give you some tips that might help get you through.
Do your research:
Whether you are traveling by car or plane it is always a good idea to make a plan. For air travel its a good idea to shop around for the best deal. Be wary though, the cheapest may not always be the best. Cheaper flights can be plagued by problems.
If you are traveling by car, it is a good idea to look into alternative routes. Unexpected delays can pop-up, having these contingency plans can get you there faster and be less stressful.
Stay Connected:
Download your airlines latest app. This will give you all the information about your flight. There are other independent travel apps that can be helpful as well. Be sure to call all those that are awaiting you at your destination. Inform the about any delays, change of plans and time that you are expecting to get into town.
Stay Informed on the Weather:
There is nothing like getting half way to your destination and getting caught in a blinding blizzard. A good idea to check your local weather as well as your destination and anywhere you stop along the way. This way you can plan for unexpected delays and other issues. It will also help you pack.
Pack Smart:
When flying, try to stick with carry on luggage whenever possible. Wear heaver clothing to save on room. Ship present instead of bring them with you. We all know that there is a possibility that your luggage could be lost is transit. If you do have to bring your presents wait to wrap them. If security sees something that seems suspicious they will not hesitate to look inside.
Have Plenty of Food and Drink:
Packing your own snacks can help you avoid the troublesome airport lines. Try avoiding candy bars and other quick releasing sugary snacks. Take fruit, sandwiches or another hearty snack to fuel your body for the trip. Get plenty of water. Unfortunate you take water through security. You can take empty bottles with you though. Using the drinking fountains to fill your bottle is a cheep and time saving option.
Keep Yourself Entertained:
Nothing helps relieve stress like getting lost in your favorite music or win a few rounds of Candy Crush. Electronics can be fun, but I would suggest having some non-electrical options as well. You may need to reserve your battery life. A good book and some card games can be great options.
If You Become Stranded Know Your Options:
When flying check with your airline to see if you qualify for compensation. This could be a comped room, flight or meal voucher or other possibilities.
Driving can be a completely different story depending where you get stranded. Before you leave make sure that your car is up to snuff. If you are not mechanically inclined, there are plenty of qualified and trustworthy shop that can help. You should also make you a travel survival kit for your car. Place in it some essentials like: blankets, a trusty flashlight or headlamp, gloves, hats, ice scrappers, and some food and water. These items can help you make it through if the worst happens.
If you get stuck don't panic. The best thing is to call for help, whether it is AAA, OnStar, a towing company, or local law enforcement. If you get stuck in the snow, do not try to overexert yourself by digging yourself out. Your body is already in a stressful situation in cold weather. A loss of precious calories put stress on muscle as well as your heart. With the loss of heat your body shuts down all non-essential blood flow and directs it to the major organs. This can lead to frostbite and eventual hypothermia.
Never leave your car. Your can easily get lost in poor weather. Your car can shelter you from the elements. If possible, run your car for small periods of time. I would say no longer the ten minutes. If you do this make sure that you check your tailpipe for debris. A blocked pipe can cause CO2 to back up and make its way into the cabin of the car. Create a whole new set of problems. Best thing for times like this is to keep your head.
Be kind:
This maybe a no-brainer, but we all have that possibility to blow up is stressful situation. I know I do, just ask the wife. Airline personnel, tow truck drivers or whoever is trying to help you are doing their best. Cursing and pitching a fit doesn't make the situation any better. So remember a little kindness goes a long way.
So these are a few tips for you. Hopeful you find them useful or at least makes you think about it.
From your friends here at the Adventure Diaries. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Josh, Erin and Odin
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