Holiday Travel

Holiday travel is rewarding and a wonderful way to build memories. It is important to follow general planning and safety measures to ensure a more enjoyable holiday.

Holiday Travel Via Automobile

Traveling via automobile is common this time of year for many people across the country. It can be also be stressful, especially for Alaskans. If you are traveling by car this holiday season, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Prepare Your Automobile

Regular maintenance is incredibly important for vehicles but before taking a long trip, perform a double check. Check things like fluid levels, tire tread and tire pressure. Do not wait until the last minute to try to get your oil changed or get gas. Make appointments now for fluid changes or tire rotations, and fill up your gas tank ahead of time. Ensure you have a safety kit handy and accessible in case of emergency. If you plan to haul luggage on top of or behind your vehicle, make sure to strap it down well so it does not fall off onto the roadway.

Give Yourself Extra Time For Holiday Travel

The weather in Alaska during winter is rough and with added traffic, can seriously slow down travel plans. Before you go, check the National Weather Service for Alaska for winter weather warnings, watches, and advisories. Know which major roads you will be taking and go to Alaska 511 for road maintenance information, so that you are prepared for travel delays . Further, add time onto anticipated arrival times and leave early in case of changes while traveling.

Keep The Roads Safer

As a driver this season, it is up to you to keep the roads safe. Call or text your friends or family BEFORE you get on the road to let them know your anticipated arrival time. Get off your phone while you are driving and do not text while behind the wheel. Stay alert and watch other vehicles to avoid being involved in an accident. Use your blinker to signal other drivers of your intention to turn or change lanes and pull over if you become distracted.

Finally, get plenty of sleep before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Driving while tired is a major concern and makes the roads more dangerous for yourself and others.

Holiday Travel Via Air

The increase in holiday travel is more than just busier roads. Airports also experience an influx in people and are often very chaotic this time of year. With the increase in travelers, there are several things to consider when flying over the holiday season.

Before Your Flight

Holiday travel, especially by air, introduces many new germs to your immune system. Avoid becoming sick during or after the holidays by drinking water days before your flight and preparing your immune system by taking Vitamin C tablets. Continue drinking water regularly while you are traveling so that your body stays hydrated. Sleep is important for the same reason and allows your body to fight bacteria that may cause sickness. Get plenty of rest, especially while traveling.

Allow Extra Time

The Alaska International Airport System recommends that travelers provide extra time to reach the airport due to increases in traffic. If you plan to drive yourself to the airport, consider the time it will take to park and unload your vehicle. If you drive yourself, make sure to store keys in an easy to find location and take a photo of your parking spot to remember where your car is parked upon your return home.

Reduce check-in wait times by checking-in online before you leave your house. The goal of TSA is to get everyone through security as quickly as possible while also protecting travelers. Know the rules before you and prepare by putting liquids and electronics in easy-to-reach locations.

Holiday Travel Luggage

Consider what you are taking and if you actually need it. Check bags when necessary but remember, you will have to lug everything through busy airports. If you are transporting gifts on your flight, do not wrap the gifts ahead of time. If TSA needs to see what is inside, they can rip your wrapped gifts open. Pack light for carry-on luggage and remember many flights this time of year are full with little overhead space. If you want a lock on your luggage, make sure the lock is TSA approved. Finally, never leave your luggage unattended. It is a safety concern but also can get stolen.

If your holiday travel plans involve airports, please make sure to practice these tips to help make your travel safer and less stressful.

Johnson & Associates wishes you and yours a peaceful, healthy holiday season and safe holiday travel.

Johnson & Associates has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Secondary Sources: National Weather Service; Alaska 511, Alaska International Airport System; and Master Lock

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