6 Tips for Thanksgiving Travel

According to AAA, about 42.5 million Americans will be traveling by air or road this Thanksgiving. Attributing it to a recovering economy (seriously?), this is a 4 percent rise over last year.

If you’re flying for the holiday, woe is you. But alas, sometimes the family just can’t live without you and you’ve got no choice. So what to do if you’re traveling this weekend? Here are some tips to make Thanksgiving travel easier…

1) Check in online up to 24 hours in advance. This will cut down the amount of time you spend in line at the airport. Also, pick your seats ahead of time to ensure you don’t get stuck in a middle seat!

2) Pack your own snacks. Few airlines offer free meals these days, and even if they do, they are usually high carb/high sugar meals that are just going to make you feel worse before and/or after Thanksgiving. Carry your own healthy snacks such as fruit or trail mix and stay away from the airline meals.

3) Arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours prior to your departure. The day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year. Arriving well in advance of your flight will ensure that you’ll get through check-in and security in time for boarding.

4) Travel light. It’s likely that you’re only traveling for the long weekend and don’t need a wide range of clothes with you. Travel with a carry-on bag with just a few changes of clothes so that you don’t have to check your bag. This will save you time at the airport.

5) Don’t wrap gifts for family and friends. The TSA can ask you to unwrap these if you’ve got them in your carry-on bag. It’s best to ship them ahead of time or wrap them once you get to your destination.

6) Bring a good book or games. In case there are delays (count on it so you’re not disappointed or frustrated), you’ll have something to keep you occupied. Remember that you’ll have to keep electronics turned off once the plane’s doors are shut so you can’t rely on your iPhone or digital reader to keep you distracted if you get stuck on the tarmac.

Have fun with the family and friends this holiday. And be safe!

*****

By the way, yes, that IS Tofurky in the photo. I make an excellent one. While you’re traveling, I’ll be cooking up one of these slathered in my secret marinade. I know you’re jealous

Travel Well!

Beth

Related links:
WanderFood Wednsday: Tofurky and Trimmings
Tofurky, Japanese-Style