This time of year is joyous and it is a time of celebration…that is once you are with your friends and family. For some reason that joy leaves us when we begin to make the trek to where ever it is we may be going. I would like to encourage you to consider doing the following thing this year as you begin your travel for the holidays:
Breathe. This time of year things get a little crazy and those that are working to get you where you need to go, are doing their best for you. When delays or weather issues come into play be ready for them. In fact, expect them, that way when they happen you will be ready to breathe through them.
Smile. This one comes into play especially when you are traveling with your family. Try to remember this is a time that you only have for a few years and then they are doing this with their families. When an issue arises, if you are smiling and speaking in a relaxed tone to those that are working to get you where you need to go, you are more likely to get more information and quicker service.
Pack Light. If you are traveling somewhere that has laundry facilities try and pack as light as you can. Avoid those airline fees or better yet ship your luggage with a service like we offer. We work with a company that will come to your home wrap your luggage and ship it to your destination. Avoid a lot of carry on’s. The less you have to carry the easier it is to get through the airport security. Remember the 3-1-1 of airport screening. http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/3-1-1-liquids-rule
Traveling by car, have things ready for emergencies, and have a plan for your kids to be engaged with during the drive if you are traveling a long way. Think about your sanity.
Have the Correct ID. If you are traveling internationally and need a passport or visa, be sure that they are not to expire within the next 6 months as you may have some troubles. A good rule of thumb is when you are within one year of expiration, get a new one. We have a terrific passport and visa company that can get you those much needed documents in a very timely manner that is more efficient than doing it on your own.
Use the Professionals. Your travel consultant! We have many great assets at our fingertips and can help you from online check in to ideas on packing. A great travel consultant will be able to help you with updates from airlines, any delays should be forwarded to you, or just general check in procedures. Keep them posted via texting or the latest app you may have when troubles arise. We are your asset on the ground that can help with delays as you are traveling to your destination.
Enjoy the Time with Friends & Family! Life is short and years fly by. After you get through the journey to where you are going, focus on being there. Hopefully your travel there will be flawless but if you do have troubles, be thankful you arrived and enjoy your downtime!
Lastly, be sure to thank those that are working to get you there this holiday season. They are missing that time with their families and are dedicated to you and their work, keeping you safe and getting you to your destination.
Leigh Ann Arnholt
Owner, Carson Travel
419-884-7440
larnholt@carsontrav.com
