There is plenty of good advice out there for comfortable and successful holiday travels. Most importantly is having a very good state of mine. One’s attitude makes a lot of difference on how each situation is addressed. Knowing it will be a busy time and prepare and expect for the unusual as well as the congestion and traffic is always good. Here are a few suggestions to make your holiday plans merry……
1- Pack lightly. Ship your gift(s) ahead of time and pack just your personal items. Being able to move about with ease is helpful.
2- Do not wrap gifts. If you do carry gifts onto a plane, best not to wrap them. Security may ask to see the insides of the packages.
3- Print your boarding pass online. Go to the web page of the carrier and print your boarding pass. This saves time at the airport and protects your seat assignments.
4- Take a water bottle. Once you are through security there will be water fountains where you can fill the bottle with water for the plane. There is never enough water provided, even in first class.
5- Take a sandwich and fruit. Airport food tends to be very high in carbohydrates; good protein and fruits are best. Sometimes I just take a couple hard boiled eggs and an apple.
6- Take hand/face cream. The airplane air is so dry. Keeping our skin hydrated makes for a more comfortable trip. Remember only 3 ounces.
7- Wear natural fabrics and comfortable clothes. Remember the planes are often very warm. You can always use your coat as a blanket if you get cold.
8- Get to the airport early. This should be first and foremost. That extra ten minutes may help you stay cool and calm when the security lines are long.
9- Bring along a good book. Getting lost in a good story will help the time pass either in the airport or on the plane.
10- Say thank you and happy holidays to all the employees you meet. Remember they are doing their best to get you to friends and family as comfortably and safely as possible. And mostly, they are working while you get to travel to go see your friends and family!
P.S. If you do not already, ask Santa for a noise reduction head set. One of Santa’s elves gave me a pair several years ago and I just love them. I find the roar of the engine very unpleasant and my headset relaxes me. They can be used for music, but I like the silence and a good book. Seattle is so far away! But my grandson and children are there.
P.P.S. Do not hesitate to call the office to confirm flights. If you call after hours, do call 888-567-9406. You may be charged $20 for the call by the office, but if your flight is changed, it may be well worth the cost.
AlwaysHarriet 