General Travel Tips
With portions of the country experiencing record snowfalls and temperatures
plunging into the single digits, those planning a winter get-away may be
thinking twice about leaving the house. To take the sting out of your winter
travel plans, regardless of state choice, ASTA is providing a series of useful travel tips.
“As
anyone who has read the news lately knows, travelers this winter are facing an
increasing number of hurdles and challenges from weather delays to security
issues,” said Chris Russo, ASTA president and chair. “Now more than ever, an
ounce of prevention is worth hours in line. Following common-sense advice and
using a professional travel agent to book your trip won’t eliminate all travel
hassles, but having someone on your side before, during and after your trip can
make a world of difference.”
1) Plan Ahead:
Waiting to the last minute always leaves a great deal of your trip up to
happenstance. Contact your travel agent to book your vacation in advance as soon
as you can manage. Then, you'll be able to avoid peak travel dates, get lower
airfare, fly direct (or minimize your connections) and fly early or late in the
day to avoid the bigger crowds and delays.
2) Leave Early for the Airport -
Give yourself more time than usual in order to anticipate the peripheral delays
that could occur. Remember to bring some reading material while you wait in the
security line or at your departure gate. In cities with snow or ice, arrival
delays can exceed two to three hours and de-icing procedures can take an hour
before takeoff.
3) Steer clear of Influenza -
Winter travel can be a frequent contributor to the cold and flu season, adding a
miserable element to your travel stress. Before you leave, visit your doctor's
office to get the flu shot or nasal spray flu vaccine. Most germs will spread by
contact, so wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer frequently.
4) Consider insurance - Many travel insurance policies cover trip delay and
cancellations due to weather.
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