Take the Headache Out of Holiday Air Travel!

The holidays are finally here, and we know that many of you will be boarding a plane over the next few days to go to, or come home from, the homes of friends and loved ones.  Flying though, as many well-worn travelers know, can go from fun to complicated and difficult in a very short time if you are not properly prepared for it.  If you are planning on flying this week, or anytime soon, keep these tips and tricks in mind when preparing for your trip:

BYOB: Bring Your Own BLANKET!

When taking a long-distance flight after a LONG process of getting through an airport and on board, little else feels better than a pillow and/or blanket, especially if it’s a nighttime journey. Unfortunately those items are cleaned on an “as needed” basis with most airlines.  In other words, that blanket you snuggled up with may have gone through 10 passengers before you without being washed.  The same goes for pillows.  They are usually washed only when they look dirty.  We know, it’s shocking, and that’s why we suggest finding a travel sized pillow and possibly your own blanket (or sweatshirt) to roll up in your carry-on bag.  Another handy tip to keep in mind?  Bring a travel pack of sanitizing wipes with you.  Those tray tables are cleaned about as often as the blankets and pillows.

Stand Out from the Crowd…With Your Luggage

Don’t let your suitcase get lost in the shuffle at the baggage claim.  Save yourself the time and trouble of hunting down your charcoal suitcase in a sea of blues, grays, and blacks by purchasing a bag in a shade such as red, or a bright blue.  When it comes to the baggage claim, the more you (or rather, your suitcase) stand out, the better!

Kid-Friendly Stops (Saving Your Sanity)

If you know you are going to have a layover, or a substantial amount of time in between fights, and are traveling with children, look for designated play areas, or at least an open area where you children can have a few moments of freedom without disturbing those around them.  Airplanes quickly lose their magic for little ones since they are a confined space, and by giving your kids a few minutes of freedom you’ll likely be saving yourself grief during the flight later on.  If you are traveling with very young children, it is worth bringing their carseat on the plane.  Many carseats have a stroller attachment that can be checked at the gate after getting through the airport with your children so you don’t have to worry about carrying a seat AND a child.  If your child is already used to riding in that specific seat, that familiarity might make the fight easier for them (and for YOU).  In other words, they might actually feel comfortable enough to fall asleep!

For more tips and tricks (including those we’ve listed in this post) check out this list on realsimple.com.

http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/travel/tips-air-travel-insiders-10000001718076/index.html

For those traveling near and far this holiday season, Merry Christmas from Carroll Marshall Insurance!