Safety First When Traveling: Safety Travel Tips For More Enjoyable Trips

Traveling to places that you are not familiar with can be quite scary. And, to
heighten your anxiety, there are many instances where incidents happen, such as
robbery, murder and even rape. In most cases, tourists are always the target
because they basically don't know how to act and prepare in such a strange
place. If you plan on traveling to other parts of the world and really enjoy
your trip, then you have to remember that safety should always be first when
traveling.

So, here are some tips that can help you enjoy your trip more and also increase
your safety.

The first is that you should never list your home address in your luggage tag.
If you are on business, try using the company's address and if you are visiting
friends in the area, you can try putting your address instead. Also, in order to
avoid letting people know where you live, try covering the luggage tags.

The second thing that you should do is that you should always stay with your
luggage whenever it is checked. You have to consider the fact that most
robberies happen during this time. If you get tired and you need to put the bag
down on the floor to let your arms and hands rest, always step on the handle of
the bag.

A small lock on the zipper also helps prevent robbery. In fact, even a small
lock that can be easily pried open will discourage thieves from even thinking
about robbing from you.

It is very important that you should always carry important documents and
papers with you, such as your passport, driver's license and everything that
you cannot afford to lose while traveling. Never leave these things in your
luggage that needs to be checked in. And, if you can, photocopy your important
documents.

When traveling, always bring a handy flashlight. You'll never really know when
you will suddenly be in a situation where you will need a flashlight. During
the night, even in the hotel, always keep your flashlight beside you whenever
you get some sleep.

If you need to take medications, always remember that it should be labeled
accurately and it should be filled properly. Always ask your doctor to provide
you with prescription as well as a document stating that you need to take the
medicines. You have to remember that there are certain prescription drugs that
are prohibited by some countries.

When you travel, you should never draw any attention from other people. This
means that you shouldn't wear anything shiny, such as gold jewelry, expensive
watches, rings and other things that projects affluence. And, if you can, try
leaving your jewelry at home, especially if you are not really going to use it
when traveling.

Never accept drinks from someone you don't know, especially women. And, always
keep your eye on your drink at all times. You have to remember that in some
countries, certain women are raped and murdered because of drinking drugged
beverages.

If you need to get local currency, never ever deal with exchangers that don't
seem reputable. Try asking the hotel staff or the information desk on the hotel
on where to find a reputable money changer shop.

These are some of the tips that you should remember when traveling. Always
remember that when traveling, safety first should always be on top of your
priorities.

Safety First When Traveling for Enjoyment

You can find a lot of safety tips online and in offline resources. Traveling is
among the most common activities of people, whether it is for pleasure or for
business. Frequent travelers are no longer ignorant to these safety tips
because they make use of them whenever they are on a foreign place. If you want
to make the most of your trip, safety first when traveling is of utmost
importance.

Here are some of the things that you can do to ensure your safety:

1. When traveling, it's but natural for you to carry luggage. If you need to
place luggage tags, just put your email address and never indicate there your
name, phone number, and home address.

2. Air traveling is already part when going abroad or to a far place. You can
see in the news that there are terrorists who sometimes highjack planes. One
effective shield that you can use against an attacker (if there is trouble on
the plane) is the seat straps. You have to use all your strength in ramming the
strap on the attacker's face. This move will cut off the attacker's vision and
once this happens, you can kick that individual in the groin or in any other
sensitive body part. Knock that person until unconscious.

3. Don't forget to bring a handy flashlight and batteries. You can use it if
there is no light or you can even use it against an attacker when needed.

4. Don't forget to carry wallets. If you want, you can take two wallets with
you. One wallet can contain some non-important items and a few cash while the
other wallet should contain your important IDs, insurance cards, cash, and
emergency contacts. Keep the wallets in separate places. For instance, the
insignificant wallet can be placed in your pant's back pocket and the important
wallet should be in your coat's front pocket.

5. When eating in foreign restaurants, you must acquaint yourself with the
place's layout. Take note of the front and exit doors.

6. Charge your mobile phone at the hotel. When you leave, bring it with you and
other gadgets that can be easily carried. You can even use these gadgets in case
of emergencies.

7. Never travel alone. Through there are some travelers who do this every time
they travel, you shouldn't take the chance. Who knows, perhaps they are just
lucky but you'll never know what's going to happen in the next few hours.
Always be prepared. Remember that devious individuals are just waiting to see a
helpless traveler, alone and so vulnerable.

8. You must be mentally alert at all times. Observe the people around you, how
they move or look at you. Somehow, you will feel uneasy if something's going to
happen.

9. Before you travel to a foreign place, it would be best to make a hotel
reservation. That way, you don't have to fumble or ask for directions in trying
to locate a certain hotel.

10. Don't travel with so many luggage unless when needed. Try to wear
comfortable clothes and don't wear something that might attract the attention
of bad people. Be simple as you are. For women, avoid wearing high-heeled shoes
when traveling.

These are just ten safety measures that you can follow every time you travel
abroad or even locally. If you follow them, you can ensure your safety.

Safety First Advice for Women Travelers

Generally, there area lot of women travelers who get stuck in being confused on
what to do when traveling alone. Women, being more of the vulnerable type, would
think that it can be quite scary embarking through stranger's land where
everyone knows that you are a new comer. Women, don't fret. Here are some tips
to guide you make it through safe traveling. With these safety first advices
for traveling women, you can ease out your concerns.

Advice # 1 -- Always consider what to wear.

Your attire can accurately tell who you are and what lies beneath that bag of
yours. Every place is different but nothing beats simplicity. if you are going
in East side countries wherein most places are still "developing", it is not
wise to wear signature clothes or branded shoes. This will not only make some
kind of commotion but also attract the eyes of prowling thieves. In addition,
other countries are reprimanding the wearing of revealing clothes. How do you
go about this? Dress simply. Dress what locals will dress. If necessary, buy
clothes that you often see them wear.

Advice # 2 -- Stay away from suspicious strangers.

Remember, you are in a foreign country wherein people can't even understand a
single word you're saying. That is why, it is better to stay away from
suspicious looking people. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt.

There is a perception that because women are weaker than men in terms of muscle
strength, they are more vulnerable to get mobbed helplessly. You can choose to
stay in parts of the town where it is considered safe but then again you will
be defeating the main reason why you're traveling. You'll miss all the fun of
being a traveler. Or you could do the following:

* Be watchful of the people around you. Call it paranoia but better safe than
sorry. Stay alert especially in crowded areas because some thieves would prefer
to do their thing amongst a number of people.

* Take the jewelries off. It is not advisable to strut your way through the
busy streets of a foreign place showing off your most priced jewelry. It's like
saying, "Come and get me."

* Carry a light and if necessary, a weapon for protection. A heavy flashlight
can be can be very useful when you came home late or you're passing through a
dark alley.

* Hide it under your undies. Yes, it can be quite uncomfortable but it would be
one of the safest places to stash your money. If you're wearing shoes, you can
hide it underneath or inside your socks or stockings.

Advice # 3 -- Bring your medicines.

If traveling makes you sick, better have something to prevent occurrences to
happen. If you have asthma, hypertension or any kind of illness that can strike
you anywhere, always have a solution to it -- bring your prescribed medicines.
Never reach a point where you have to stop everything or be rerouted just to
get you to the nearest hospital.

Equipped with these advices, you'll be safer and be much more confident. You
can feel more relaxed to go on a journey. Always be aware of your surroundings
and pay attention to odd people. Following these safety first advices when
traveling through different lands, as a woman, can get you home in one piece
safe and sound.

Safety First When Traveling: 5 Key Tips That Will Make Your Holiday More
Enjoyable and Safer

It is always a great experience to go to different counties. You will be able
to experience different cultures, and you will also have the chance to take a
look at some of the most beautiful sights in the world. However, you should
always remember that you always have to think that safety first when traveling
should be your top priority.

Wherever you plan on going, it is important to remember that your and your
traveling companion's safety should always be first. Besides, if an incident
would occur, it will definitely make the rest of the holiday miserable.

Planning holidays or travels is not just about planning which places you should
visit, but it is also about being prepared for things that may occur. So, here
are some travel safety tips that you should always keep in your mind in order
for you to have a more enjoyable and safer vacation.

Transportation is the first thing that you should plan ahead on. You need to
remember that even when you are still in your own country, airports and bus
stations are notorious for pickpockets and robberies. Always remember that you
should always keep your important travel items with you at all times.

Have your luggage clearly marked in order to avoid letting someone take it by
accident thinking that it's his or her luggage. Also, instead of using cheap
luggage, always go for quality pieces and well-known and reputable brands. By
doing so, you will never worry about your luggage breaking or suddenly
springing open in the middle of the airport terminal.

When you arrive in your destination country, always ask which taxis are safe to
ride in. You can check this with a police officer or from the information desk
at the airport. Also, never share taxis with stranger. And, when it comes to
public transportation, avoid it late at night, especially if you are not sure
where you are going.

Also, although backpackers will recommend hitchhiking, you should avoid doing
this as much as possible.

Whenever you are checking in to hotels, make sure that the hotel you checked-in
is located in a good area. Always take not of the emergency exits and never open
your hotel room door to any strangers and never invite people you just have met
i n your hotel room. Also, use the hotel room door lock and chain during the
night.

Clothing is another thing that you should plan on to have a safe trip. The key
to traveling safety is by never looking like a tourist. Always mix with the
public in terms of style. Never ever wear any expensive accessories, such as
gold necklaces, expensive watches, rings, and other affluent items. Never put
anything that you can afford to lose in your pockets or purse. If you can, try
buying a small bag that you can wear close to your body. A small bag the size
of a wallet that can be worn as a necklace is a great idea. A belt bag can also
provide you with security amd peace of mind.

Avoid using cash at all times. As much as possible, always use your credit
card. And, when it is time for you to pay, never leave your eyes on your credit
card. Accompany the waiter to the cashier when paying with a credit card to make
sure that your card doesn't get swiped with a credit card copier.

Remember these things and you can be sure that you will have a lot of fun on
your travels. By keeping safety on your first priority when traveling, you can
be sure that you and your travel companions will have a great time during your
vacation or your holiday wherever it may be.

Safety First When Traveling: Women's Travel Guide for Additional Safety

Whether it is for business or pleasure, you will see that more and more women
are now traveling all over the world. Although this may seem like a good thing,
you have to remember that in other parts of the world, women are viewed as weak
and are unable to defend themselves. This is why you have to remember that when
traveling, safety first should always be on top of other things.

So, here are some tips that women can use in order to have a much more
enjoyable and also much safer trip whenever they travel abroad.

The first tip is that you should always do your research first on the country
you plan on traveling to. You have to remember that not all countries are the
same in regards to culture. Some countries are culturally conservative and will
have dress codes that everyone should follow. Always familiarize yourself on the
laws and customs of the place you wish to go to. Remember that ignorance of the
law excuses no one even if you are a tourist.

A very good example would be Saudi Arabia. If you travel here, you have to
remember that tourists here and even women were apprehended by the police for
improper dresses. You have to remember that Islamic nations tend to be very
conservative especially around women. So, never ever do obscene postures when
traveling to unknown places. In fact, in some countries, it is even illegal to
invite people of the opposite sex in your hotel room. And, only married couples
are allowed to stay in the same hotel room.

Although fashion may always be important for you as it really does make a
statement, you have to remember that what may be casual wear for you may be
seen as provocative or inappropriate in other countries. Always remember that
you can never go wrong with jeans and t-shirt that covers most of your body.
Also, these clothes are better option than skirts if you need to run or defend
yourself.

Whenever traveling, it is always a good idea to blend in with the public. Try
buying a local dress and wear it to give other people the impression that you
are a local and is familiar with the country.

If you want a more secure way whenever you are getting around the country,
always arm yourself. Today, you will see a lot of safety devices available for
sale in the market and can be brought along legally. An example would be pepper
sprays, where if sprayed on the assailant's face, it will temporarily blind them
and also disable them for 5 to 6 minutes, which is enough for you to run away
and get help. You can also try getting a stun gun which has an electrostatic
voltage charge. This safety device will indeed give your assailant a shock of
his or her life and weaken their muscles.

Whenever traveling in unfamiliar surroundings, always be alert. It is
recommended that you should never carry your wallet in your back pocket. Always
carry it in the front or side pockets and keep your hands in there. You have to
remember that some places are notorious for pickpockets and there are even
places
where children working with adults can slash your pants with a blade and get
the contents of that pocket. Always be cautious.

These are some of the safety tips that you should remember whenever you travel.
You have to remember that as a woman, you will be much more vulnerable to
attacks. By always planning ahead, you can be sure that you will be able to
have a more enjoyable vacation. Whenever you plan your holiday, you need to
remember that safety should always be first when traveling.

When Traveling as a Student, Practice Safety First

So you ask, is traveling dangerous? It is quite inherent that in any kind of
travel that a person does, danger is always just around the corner yes,
traveling entails a lot of risks but there are ways on how to prevent these
kinds of unwanted situations just by following simple safety first tips when
traveling especially if you're just a student.

As a student traveling far away from home, you have to consider a lot of
precautions like:

* Street crimes may vary in forms but the motive will still be the same. Even
if you came from another country and have lived your life in a big city, you
will still be startled on how crimes are made in other places.

* If you came from a small town and it will be your first time to enter the big
city, keep your faith strong for there are a lot of people living in the biggest
cities with the littlest of hearts and frail interest.

* If you're going to some place where people can't speak your tongue, you
should've had even the slightest background of the place's dialect or language
so that you can easily get help.

As you plan your travel, make sure that you are aware of the different travel
warnings and not considering the places where Americans are not safe to go. You
can also register to the US Embassy of the country where you're at just in case
anything bad will happen, your country will know where to find you.

At the point of traveling alone in a stranger's place, it's advisable to stay
safe. You can do the following:

* Apply the safety precautions that you have at home. Think of your new place
as danger prone times two. But these precautions should not hinder your chances
of enjoying your stay. Just avoid walking along dark and empty streets. As much
as possible stash your money in places where thieves dare not search. Stay
alert at all times.

* If you're boarding a plane or crossing a boarder, never let yourself carry
the items of others even if you know that person very well. You can't plead
"not guilty" if inspectors have proven that what you're carrying are illegal
drugs or explosives.

* Know about the important laws of the place you're going to. There are certain
places where bribery is beginning to become a livelihood for some public
officials wherein, to literally go about safely around town, you have to give a
bigger amount. In these places, your rights can be very thin.

* Pay attention to your luggage. Never let it out of your sight. There are
scenarios that goes "one minute it's there, the other minute it's gone. In
countries where poverty is their main problem, it would help at least 10
families to live through cold nights with that luggage of yours.

* be very careful when riding trains and taxis. You can easily get lost most
especially if the taxi driver doesn't get what you're saying. You'll just go
around in circles. Worst, it can cost you so much.

Point is: preparation and knowledge will keep you safe in all your journeys.
You can go in a place where you'll really enjoy every moment that you're there
and in another where you'll curse all the way out. Tool is, as a student, you
must always be aware of the safety first practices when traveling outside your
place.

Seven Safety First Tips when Traveling with your Children

There is a big difference between traveling with an adult and traveling with
children. Even if you have toddlers or an infant with you, it is a special
specification that adults accompanying their children must observe safety first
when traveling. There are numerous ways to make traveling for you and your child
safer. Here are seven:

1. Maintain seatbelts or restraints at all times. Naughtiness can become one
reason for your child to get hurt and cause one to another. Your child can move
all he want as long as his seatbelt or restraint are firmly attached to their
bodies. Furthermore, turbulence can go without warning.

2. Keep your child's essentials inside your hand carry bag. You can survive
every ounce of tantrums when you keep in your bag a handful of useful
merchandise like diapers, food and medicine. If you have an infant, you can
bring in two bottles of milk.

3. Position you child away from the aisle. It would be more appropriate to sit
him in between two adults. If you don't like being seated along the aisle, for
your child's sake, sacrifice. Children love exploring and reaching out things.
They can get hurt unknowingly when thei r little arms and hands get bumped by
walking people or by the serving cart. You can also sit him at one corner
beside the windows.

4. Bring toys. Make sure these are not deadly ones. Toys can serve as perfect
modalities to catch your child's attention and refrain him or her from making
unnecessary noises and activities. Never bring toys that can hurt, easily break
or is heavy. Electronic games can only be used while the plane is cruising.

5. Control your child. It is your responsibility to control your child's
behavior while inside the plane. The flight attendant is never responsible for
the supervision of your child. You don't pay them to become baby sitters. As
much as possible, don't fall asleep during the flight. Children take this
opportunity to wander around the plane and eventually get lost. You also have
to be careful when walking around the plane with your child for he might reach
hot cups of coffee or silverware.

6. Upon the deployment of oxygen masks, put yours first. Contrary to what most
parents would think, it is much advisable to put an adult's mask first before
their child. Why? for practical reasons. There would be a greater chance of
saving both your lives than just your child's. If the adult puts the oxygen
mask on their children first, it will take only few seconds for hypoxia to come
over wherein episodes of confusion or passing out will happen. A child,
especially smaller ones, will be of no help once you pass out. This is one very
good reason why you must put on the mask first.

7. Always be prepared for the possibility of emergencies. Be aware of the
procedures that can be appropriate for your child. First, ask the flight
attendant if they have emergency equipments that are designed especially for
children. Next, be familiar with the preflight briefing. Lastly, if your child
has a condition that can be an issue, inform the attendant.

Generally, you have to plan ahead. Ask yourself what are the things that can
help you and your child to be safe through hours of being suspended on air. It
is your sole responsibility to take good care of your child by practicing these
safety first tips when traveling.

Safety First Timer Tips when Traveling through the Internet

Traveling can be in different forms. Either on land, air or sea, it is always
mandatory to be safe at all times. Although another kind of traveling is now
rampant and is continuously happening inside your own home. It's journeying
through the internet streets. Unlike traveling outdoors wherein you have to go
through a lot of twists and turns and is quite exhausting, traveling indoors by
means of your internet connection can be a breeze. Perhaps this is the first
time you would encounter this kind of experience or if not, probably your kids
or younger siblings, whoever it is, there are certain precautions and safety
tips especially for first timers traveling through the Internet.

Interacting with people via the Internet can be risky and dangerous. Indeed, a
lot of Internet users, even experienced ones, get molested, abused or fooled
just by hanging out for about 15 minutes, talking to a stranger. Others can
even get robbed because they were too honest and trustful of their identity
that they are giving it all out. If you are just new, you can pick up some
ideas on how to avoid this kind of predicament.

The secret when dealing with strangers through the Internet and making sure
that you are safe every step of the way is through proper communication and
keen observation. How? Pay attention:

When someone asks you things that are quite personal, like information about
your real name or address, be alert. Never give out something as important as
your home phone number, age, name of friends, and most especially, your family
income. Not unless you know this person by heart, never spill out anything this
valuable. You may put the lives of your family, friends and even yourself in
danger.

If a certain company or a representative from a firm or agency tells you
beautiful things on how to earn big, big bucks in just a couple of minutes or
tells you that you can cultivate massive income in not less than a week, such
an exaggeration can put you at risk. It can spell out catastrophe. Never give
into their sweet words, that in the end, will entice you to give out something
as important as your credit card number. This can turn out to be a scam and
wipe out everything in your account. Before trusting anything, ask. Ask for the
person's or the company's credibility, status and standing in the business that
is being related.

Passwords are keys to another world and opens something personal or top secret.
Never give this out nor share it even with your closest friends.

If you have met someone through online chatting, you have to be sure of the
person's identity and how far can he or she be trusted before meeting in
person. Hope this doesn't burst your bubble but there are syndicates roaming
around the Internet waiting for their next victim so be very careful. If in
doubt, you can ask someone to accompany you or meet somewhere public.

Treat the person whom you are talking to with respect even if the person's not
giving it back. Never try to send bad messages or use explicit or mean
languages.

You have to be wary of strangers because not all have bad intentions. Others
can be decent and are properly behaved. Just to be sure, always apply safety
first when traveling trough the Internet.

Safety First Traveling Tips when Riding a Foreign Taxi

Riding a taxi can generally be safe. It's safer than journeying through the
subway, at least. But, there are things, bad things that can happen when riding
a foreign taxi. There have been reports of kidnapping by taxi drivers in which
you have to be aware of. before boarding any kind of vehicle, consider your
safety first and then be alert of your surroundings when traveling especially
when you're alone.

Tip # 1 -- Locate a taxi stand.

If you just came out of the airport, you can easily find taxi stands around and
near the area. It would be a bit similar to what you have in your country. You
just have to notice the congregating taxis under a sign that you can't read and
that would probably be it. If unsure, ask a police person. In general terms,
only cabs that are authorized by the government to board passengers are the
ones that can park under these stands. This also means that the taxi driver is
licensed. Never let drivers that are aggressive to win you over. They might
have another intention than bringing you to your destination.

Tip # 2 -- Know something about the place where you're heading.

You should have even the slightest idea regarding your destination. If
necessary, try to avoid shortcuts because this can confuse your memory and lead
to another street that you are unfamiliar with. Notice If you're heading south
and the taxi is going north, be determined to ask or otherwise make the cab
stop for if not, juts jump out of your seat and ask for help.

Tip # 3 -- Observe for cab similarities.

Look at the color of the taxi. Is it he same with others? Do they have certain
similarities that can assure you of some firm evidence that the cab is really
safe? You can never trust a taxi that seems different from the others because
in some places, thieves use fake cabs to get your money or sometimes, more.

Tip # 4 -- Keep your belongings close.

If you're traveling alone and your are carrying a really big and heavy luggage,
sit beside it. Keep it very close to you. Otherwise if it's in the trunk, it
will be very difficult for you to pull it out if in case anything bad happens.

Tip # 5 -- Note phone numbers.

Taxi companies love advertising. That is why, legitimate taxis are the ones
with plastered company numbers either on the trunk, doors and roofs. Never get
into a taxi that doesn't have the company's phone number on its interior or
exterior surface.

Tip # 6 -- Sharing alert.

Sharing your cab with someone can minimize your consumption and impose some
kind of safety within you. Although, you should try to say "No." if your taxi
driver wanted someone to share with you no matter how peaceful the stranger
looks -- especially in foreign countries. You could end up being kidnapped
because the peaceful-faced stranger is wearing a mask and is actually a monster.

Tip # 7 -- Get a hold of the door handle.

Don't ride a taxi when the door handle inside it is malfunctioning or is
broken. It would be very difficult for you to escape a predicament with a
busted cab door.

If in case all of these tips fail, always have an emergency line where you can
call local officials. It is always a remark to put safety first when traveling
especially in foreign countries.

Safety First When Traveling Abroad

When traveling abroad, it is very important to know some safety tips. However,
the country of destination plays a significant role in ensuring the safety of
travelers, specifically the area where you're planning to visit. Safety first
when traveling abroad is always the priority of travelers.

If you're a frequent traveler, perhaps you're already familiar with some safety
tips. To start it off, never wander alone even on the streets. It would help a
lot if you have a companion whenever you tour the place. Try to avoid visiting
unfamiliar places alone. As always, you must not attract the attention of
unscrupulous individuals and you should always stay in a place where there are
a lot of people. If you're staying at the hotel, their personnel can advice you
in the best places that you can visit, as well as the places that you should
avoid.

Other travelers keep their money and valuables in the hotel safe. It is not
advisable to bring a huge amount of cash when traveling because you will be a
'hot' sight for criminals. But there are travelers, who prefer to carry huge
money with them so that in case there are muggers, they can get away safely
since they satisfied the needs of the muggers.

Here are still some helpful safety tips that you can use when traveling abroad:

1. Always carry your wallet with you. You don't have to expose it so that other
people can see but just keep it in your pocket. If you encounter a mugger who
asks for your wallet, don't hesitate to give your wallet. Jus think of it this
way -- your wallet will save your life. Don't wait until the mugger exercise
violence.

2. As mentioned earlier, you need to bring your wallet. However, you have to
make sure that you don't leave personal details in it like address, contact
numbers, and other essential information. If you want to get back at the mugger
or robbers, you can leave false details. You can bring as much as $50 and a
credit card for your personal use. You see, you're never too sure when an
accident will happen. Just in case your wallet is robbed, you can cancel the
credit card as soon as possible.

3. Keep your cellular phone. This stuff is valuable and so don't go displaying
it on the streets. You will be more prone to snatchers and robbers when they
see an expensive mobile phone in your hands.

4. If possible, don't carry stuff like laptops even if you're on a business
trip. You can just keep the necessary files in the memory of your USB flash
disk. You can just use the hardware of the company that you're going to visit.

5. As much as possible, have your stuff insured such as the phone, wallet, Mp3
players, and other important things.

Now, why is it that muggers and robbers are stressed in this article? Well, the
reason is quite obvious -- these devious individuals are often encountered by
travelers. 90% of all the traveler's offences comprise robbery or mugging.
These individuals will often run away with your wallet and other valuables
especially if they see a couple of dollars. Besides, your life is far more
important than your wallet and valuables, right? You can still earn that money
as long as you're safe and sound.

Ways to Save Money for Holiday Travel

Many people want to travel for the holidays but they don't feel like they can
because their budget doesn't allow for it. Yet there are plenty of ways you can
raise money to be able to do so. The sooner you start making a plan and
determining how much money you will need the more successful you will be. Come
up with as accurate of an amount as you can so you wont' fall short. If you
overestimate the amount of money you need for holiday travel then you can enjoy
it later on.

Make a commitment not to touch the money you save for holiday travel under and
circumstances. Place it in the bank or in a piggy bank that you have to break
to get into. This way you won't be tempted to remove any of the money for
another purpose. The money you save for holiday travel will safely continue to
grow until you are ready to travel.

Everyone needs to remove clutter from their home now and then so get it done
and have a yard sale. Price the items cheap so that you won't have to haul it
all back into your home again. Making some money off the items you no longer
need is better than not making any at all. You may want to place some of the
items on the various online auctions so that you can get a better price for
them. Do your research to see what is selling on these sites so you can have a
good chance of selling yours.

Take a close look at your income and think about how much of it you can
reasonably put away for holiday travel. Even if it is only $10 a week you can
start putting it away and it will add up quickly. If you get paid every two
weeks there will be months when you get three pay checks. Make a plan to save
at least 1/2 of those paychecks for your holiday travel plans.

You may find making some adjustments to your family's budget can help you to
save enough money for holiday travel as well. Instead of paying for a cup of
coffee on the way to work each day make your own. Rather than going out to
dinner and to a movie consider ordering a pizza and renting a movie. All the
extra money that you save needs to go towards your holiday travel plans.

Ask your boss about any additional shifts or overtime hours you can have in
order to save money for holiday travel. This means you may have to give up some
of your free time but it will be a worthwhile sacrifice. Let other people know
you are for hire too so they can pay you to baby sit, clean their house, or
paint their garage. These little projects can be very fun and add up to some
nice cash for the holiday travel plans you have.

If you are traveling for the holidays to see your family or friends ask them
about a no gift rule if you want to go for Christmas. Explain to them that you
will be saving all your money towards coming to see them for the holidays. The
amount of money you will save on gifts quickly adds up, and being able to spend
time with your family and friends will be a gift you can't put a price on.

Look for excellent deals on holiday travel as well. It will be wonderful if you
find a cheap flight or a discount of the train or bus. This means you will have
less money to save up for your holiday travel. It may take some effort and some
sacrifices but it will be well worth it when the holiday of your choice rolls
around and you are able to go where you want to go.

Ways to make Holiday Travel Easier for the Elderly

The elderly may find it more stressful to travel over the holidays because they
aren't used to all the traffic or all the crowds. There are ways to make it is
much easier trip though if you plan ahead. Many elderly people take daily
medications so make sure you have plenty of it. Put it in a safe place where it
isn't likely to get lost. If you have extra pills you will want to pack them
separately. If you have some in your purse and some in your luggage you are
fine if one of them gets lost.

If you are flying make sure you have a note from the doctor to identify what
the medications are. You will have to show them to security and you can keep
the lines moving if you have the right documentation with you. Holiday travel
is very busy but don't think for a second that security is going to let their
guard down and just let you pass through with it.

Don't attempt to carry heavy bags around the airport. This can result in you
getting hurt. If the airline you are traveling with offers a kiosk outside
drive up to it and then go park your car. It is also a good idea to invest in
luggage that has wheels on the bottom. This way you can pull them along instead
of having to carry them any distance. Most head, back, and neck injuries occur
around the holidays due to carrying heavy luggage.

If you use a walker or wheelchair make sure you contact the airline in advance.
They are more than willing to accommodate such needs. Since the airport is so
busy during the holidays though you need to let them know in advance. This way
they can be sure to have staff available to assist you.

You may want to arrive at the airport an hour earlier than specified if you
need special assistance. During the holiday season you will find the airport to
be very crowded and this can result in it taking longer for you to get to your
gate. It may be a good idea for you to take an early morning flight when the
traffic is lighter there too if you can get one.

It is a good idea to carry your medical history with you when you travel. This
is even more important if you have ongoing health issues. Your medical history
can help medical professionals that aren't familiar with your needs assist you
if you aren't able to tell them. Make sure the medical history includes
information regarding any medications you may be allergic to.

Oxygen tanks are a common item that elderly people need when they travel for
the holidays. It can be difficult to carry all of them with you that you will
need for the duration. Instead of just staying home though talk with the
company that delivers your oxygen. Chances are they can arrange for you to get
the additional tanks you need when you land at the airport. If you are driving
then you will be able to have the oxygen tanks delivered to the hotel or the
residence where you are staying.

It isn't a good idea to travel with several oxygen tanks in your vehicle. They
can burst into flames if you are involved in a car accident. They are also very
heavy and take up a great deal of space. Even if your oxygen tank provider
doesn't cover the area where you are going for the holidays, they can put you
in touch with another company that does.

Just because a person is older doesn't mean they don't enjoy traveling for the
holidays. Take your time to make sure you cover all your basis. This will help
to ensure you remain safe while you are traveling for the holidays. The better
trip you have getting to your final destination the more you will enjoy your
holiday season.

Ways to Keep Children Entertained while Traveling in the Car for the Holidays

Taking your own car to travel for the holidays is a great way to avoid the
hassles at the airport. It can also be less expensive as many flights are more
expensive during holiday travel times due the demand passengers have. Traveling
with children though can be difficult if you aren't prepared.

It is important to be realistic about the expectations you have for children
during holiday travel. You can't expect them to sit quickly for 10 or 20 hours
or drive time without activities. Make sure you plan your trip so you can stop
every three or four hours at a rest area or even a park along the way to allow
them to run around for a while.

There are plenty of age appropriate games that can be played in the car during
travel for the holidays. Car Bingo features game cards that have different
pictures on them including railroad tracks, cows, and different road signs.
Even children that aren't old enough to read are able to take part in this type
of car game.

Since there will likely be people from other states traveling as well over the
holidays, make a game to identify cars from as many states as possible. Have a
list with you and then mark them off as you identify them. Try to take along
small toys or treats you can give your children as s surprise throughout the
trip.

There are plenty of CD's out there these days with fun songs for children to
listen to and to sing along with. For extremely long road trips over the
holidays you might want to purchase a system with monitors so the children can
watch movies as they travel. This can be a lifesaver, especially when there is
only one adult traveling in the vehicle.

Traveling with your children during the holidays offers the perfect chance for
everyone to visit and get to know each other better. Play a game where one
person asks a question and then each person in the car gets the chance to
answer. The questions can be simple such as what is your favorite color or more
in depth such as what is your best memory. In addition to helping to pass the
time you will learn a great deal about your children and they will learn more
about you as a person instead of just as their parent.

Nothing is going to create problems in the car faster than not having enough
room for the children and for all the times you need to take with you. Consider
buying a container that will ride on the top of the vehicle so you don't need to
place luggage inside of the vehicle with them. It may be a good idea to consider
renting a larger car or a mini van when you travel for the holidays to ensure
everyone will have sufficient room to ride comfortably. Never have more people
in the vehicle than you have seat belts for, even if you are traveling in
states that don't require them.

Children will likely sleep during the road trip so make sure you bring along
pillows and blankets. Their favorite stuffed animals along with cups for drinks
and delicious snacks will help ensure the ride is fun for everyone as you travel
for the holidays. It is a good idea to have extra supplies in case you get
caught up in a road closure or traffic jam. You should carry a cell phone will
you as well in case you need to assist someone.

You need to plan for delays and expect the trip to take you longer than normal
when you travel during the holidays. The additional traffic on the roads as
well as people at the restaurants where you stop for food along the way are
going to result in more time being spent that usual. Don't attempt to speed
while traveling with children in the car during the holidays. You want to get
there safely and if it takes longer to ensure that happens then spend that time
bonding with your children along the way.

Traveling for the Holidays on a Greyhound Bus

Greyhound is a bus line service that takes people all over the United States
with more than 2,000 bus terminals. This is a great option for those that want
to travel for the holidays and not drive there themselves. You will find the
lines at the Greyhound terminal to be less hectic than at the airport and you
can simply get into your seat and relax for the trip.

Greyhound also offers amazingly fares so you can definitely save money over
driving your own vehicle or those expensive airfares. The routes that are
offered by Greyhound are continually updated in order to meet the needs of
consumers so take a look online or call their headquarters to see what they can
offer you. They offer comfortable seats that recline, heating and air
conditioning, and lights so you can read after dark. Don't expect meals to be
served though. You will need to bring along your own food and drinks on the bus.

Since there are no assigned seats on a Greyhound bus you will want to arrive at
the terminal early when you travel for the holidays. You want to make sure you
get a choice of seats. If you are traveling with companions you want to make
sure they have seats close to you as well. It can be a mess for a single parent
traveling on a Greyhound bus to have to spread her children out. You can always
hope some people will be willing to change seats but you can't guarantee it.

One issue that many people are concerned with this is security issues aboard
Greyhound buses. They haven't updated their security measures since 09/11/01
like Amtrak and the various airlines have. The use of metal detectors on the
buses have been randomly installed but they aren't guaranteed to be in place.
This means there may be people traveling on the bus that have weapons with
them. This is a risk that some holiday travelers find to be too creepy to use
this mode of transportation.

In light of this, Greyhound has been working to improve their image and to gain
more confidence from consumers traveling for the holidays. They are working on
offering quality bus terminals in case you have a long wait before yours
departs. Many of these bus terminals also have a rental car agency inside so
you can get to your final destination without having to inconvenience someone
else to come pick you up.

They have also started random security checks at various Greyhound bus
terminals in large cities. Those purchasing a ticket have to show photo ID and
their luggage is subject to a random search. They are also working on providing
video cameras to record what takes place on the bus. While there haven't been
any major issues with security while people travel for the holidays on the
buses, they want to ensure the public that they are doing their part to make
sure it doesn't.

For many holiday travelers though, riding a Greyhound bus ensures that they can
get to their destination without any stress and without having to drive
themselves. The cost is very affordable. You need to make sure you understand
that riding on a Greyhound bus does take longer to get there because they only
go the speed limit and they will make stops at various bus terminals along the
way.

Tips to make Holiday Travel Easier

The holidays can be quite hectic but they are often a time when people travel
to see family and friends or to take a well deserved vacation. Following some
basic tips will help ensure you have the best time when you travel during this
time of year. Being prepared for things to go wrong is the first step in
minimizing the damages and getting on with your holiday travel plans.

Make sure you have all of your tickets and confirmation numbers in a specific
place. It is a good idea to make a copy of the information as well as the
contact number for your tickets and place it in another location. This way if
you lose the originals you will have all the necessary information to take care
of it. You should call about a week before your travel dates to make sure your
reservation is still active for all modes of transportation and your
accommodations.

It is common for flights, trains, and buses to get delayed over the holidays
due to security issues, weather, and trying to meet the needs of the volumes of
people using such modes of transportation over the holidays. Make sure you have
plenty of money, food, drinks, and necessities to get you through these delays.
They can range from a couple of hours to a few days. If you will be traveling a
long distance you should consider bringing along activities to pass the time,
especially if you are traveling with children.

If you take prescription medications you need to make sure you have them
clearly labeled. You may get questioned about them if they aren't in the bottle
you picked them up at from the pharmacy. It is a good idea to have a written
note from your doctor regarding the medication as well. Makes sure you have
enough of it for the entire trip including any delays that may occur.

Lost luggage is one of the biggest problems when people travel, and it
compounds during the holidays because of how busy everyone is. While you really
can't prevent your luggage from getting lost, you can do your best to make sure
you have all you need in the mean time. Make sure each person traveling in your
party has clothing in all of the suitcases instead of making one for each
person. This way everyone will have a chance to have some items should a bag or
two get lost in the shuffle.

Clearly identify your luggage so that you will be sure to get yours upon
reaching your destination. Too many bags look the same and many people are in a
hurry when they travel for the holidays. Place a colorful ribbon or colored tape
on your bags if you carry the styles and colors that are very popular. If you
travel often you should consider some unique looking luggage that will stand
out.

Traveling during the holidays needs to be as smooth as possible to ensure you
will enjoy your trip. By taking the time to follow these tips you can help make
that happen. There are plenty of horror stories out there about people not being
able to get to their destination for the holidays or they didn't have the items
they needed upon arriving. Don't open the door for your holiday vacation to fit
into this grim category.

Tips for Staying Alert during Holiday Travel

Traveling during the holidays is very exciting and there is plenty going on all
around you. However, it is very important that you remain alert so you won't be
involved in an accident or become a victim of theft. There are plenty of
criminals that target holiday travelers as they know they are likely to have
money on them and they aren't always paying attention to their surroundings.

Accidents can take place anywhere during holiday travel so you need to be
prepared for the unexpected. Never speed when you are driving and make sure you
have your seat belt on. Allow at least one car length between you and the person
in front of you. Should they have to brake quickly you don't want to rear end
them or end up being hit by the vehicle behind you.

Pay close attention for animals crossing the road as they can be a hazard. Even
though you don't want to hit them, slamming on your brakes or swerving can
result in an accident. If you do have to swerve always go to the right so you
will be off the road instead of into oncoming traffic.

There will be people along the side of the road that have been involved in
accidents or their vehicles have broken down. If you decide to stop and help
them be very careful of the traffic that is coming along. If you decide to keep
going you should switch lanes if possible or at least move over as far as
possible. You don't want to accidentally hit someone that is walking around on
the road.

While it is human nature to be compassionate and to attempt to help others you
need to be careful. Scams often occur during holiday travel and you may
encounter people asking for money or a ride. Trust your instincts and if you
don't feel comfortable with the circumstances you need to leave. You can always
use your cell phone to call the local authorities to give them a hand.

Never drive when you are too tired to focus your attention on the road. Too
many people traveling for the holidays haven't gotten sufficient rest along the
way. Don't kid yourself into thinking that a soda or several cups of coffee are
going to keep you awake. Driving while you are tired increases your chances of
making mistakes and also prolongs your reaction times.

Whether you are driving yourself or taking another method of transportation,
you need to keep a close eye on your items. Don't fall victim to having your
luggage, purse, or wallet stolen by someone because you left it unattended. Men
should keep their wallet in their front pocket and women should keep their
purses over their head across the shoulder and to the opposite arm.

If you are traveling with a spouse or other adult it is a good idea for each of
you to carry some money and a credit card with you. This way if someone does get
your materials you won't be completely without access to other forms of payment
you may need. It is also a good idea for each of you to carry a copy of the
itinerary with confirmation numbers. This way you are likely to have one copy
if the other gets lost. It is also helpful if you get separated in a crowded
airport.

Traveling during the holidays can be fun and a great way to get away from your
daily routine. Follow these tips to help keep yourself alert so you can have
the very best time possible. Most accidents are the result of people being
tired or being in too much of a hurry so get enough rest and take your time to
arrive safely. Always pay close attention to your personal belongings and
report any suspicious behaviors you may encounter.

Tips for Packing your Car for the Holidays

Knowing what you are going to put into your suitcase is only half of the battle
when it comes to effectively packing your car for the holidays. While you want
to be selective of what goes into the suitcases and the number of them, there
is likely to be plenty more than you will have to concern yourself with. The
size of your vehicle is going to realistically determine what you can take and
what will have to be left behind.

It is important to place heavier items on the bottom so they won't crush larger
items. You never know where things will end up after several sharp curves or
having to slam on your breaks because someone else isn't paying close attention
on the road. If you have breakable items you will need to make sure they are
packed very securely. For those of you traveling with Christmas presents, do
your best to hide them in the trunk area. Even if you lock your vehicle when
you stop someone may decide they want to break a window to take what you have.

You might want to consider using plastic crates or plastic storage containers
with tight lids. This will allow you to fill them up and then stack them in
your vehicle. It can offer you more room. If you are traveling for the
Christmas holiday make sure you have plenty of room in your vehicle that your
family will receive while you are visiting your family.

It is vital that you pack your car for holiday travel in a manner that allows
you to be able to see out of all the windows. Blocking your view of the road is
simply something you don't want to get involved with. This can lead to a ticket
from law enforcement or to you being involved in an accident.

If you simply don't have enough room in your vehicle then you need to buy or
rent a storage compartment that goes on the top of your vehicle. These aren't
very expensive and you will find they are very handy for more than just holiday
travel. You can use them when you go on a vacation, fishing, or camping.

Another option is to rent a larger vehicle or a van for your holiday travel.
Not only will you have more room to pack everything you need, but you will be
able to not worry about breaking down or anything. Should the vehicle be
damaged in an accident or breakdown the rental company will get you another one
and you can continue on your way.

You will likely need several items to be accessible so think about that before
you pack. You don't want to have to unload your entire vehicle when you stop
for the night or to get to something important. If you have a hotel reserved
for the half way point of your trip pack one suitcase with clothing for
everyone to change into the next day. This way you eliminate having to carry in
several suitcases and having to repack your car the next morning.

Pockets and pouches for your car are a great idea when you are traveling for
the holidays. Most of them strap to the back of the seat. You can easily store
your map and other navigational tools there. Children can also use them for
their activities as you don't want them unbuckling their seatbelt to get to
them while the vehicle is in motion.

Many people pack their purse into their travel gear but you want to place it
where you can easily reach it. This way you can get to your identification if
you are pulled over and you have access to money if you need to buy something.
Since you never know if children or adults will get ill on the trip make sure
you pack some basic items including aspirin, chewable medicine for children,
and chewable medicine for upset stomachs. This will make the entire trip for
holiday travel much easier.

Tips for Finding the Best Holiday Travel Deals Online

The internet gives us access to just about anything we can imagine. This
includes finding flights, trains, buses, hotel rooms, and rental cars that we
can use to travel for the holidays. While most of these entities are more
expensive when you travel over the holidays due the demand, you can still find
some good deals if you take the time to look.

You will generally find that you can save the most money on holiday travel if
you purchase a complete package deal. This is less expensive than buying each
piece that you need individually. It also provides you with only one
confirmation number that you need to keep track of instead of several different
ones.

There are literally hundreds of sites online where you can look for holiday
travel deals. You can search by your destination in a search engine or choose
the various sites you have heard about. It is a good idea to keep a list of the
sites you visit and the prices you are coming across. This way you can compare
the prices and easily remember where you want to go back to.

Most of the time fares will be cheaper online than by contacting the place
directly because it saves their business time of having to set up the travel
arrangements for you. Make sure you carefully read all of the information
though because some travel deals have hidden costs that you don't want to be
liable for. You also need to check into the cancellation policies and about
rescheduling your trip.

Some online travel deals don't offer any refunds at all so if a family member
dies or you have an unexpected illness you won't be able to get your money
back. Even if you show up late for your flight because you got caught up at
security they won't honor your purchase. This can be extremely risky because
there are too many variables that can affect holiday travel.

Make sure you also pay close attention to the amount of time that you will be
in the process of getting to your destination. You may find a killer price but
it isn't going to be worth it if you have several connecting flights and
layovers along the way. Look for direct methods to get to your destination
whenever it is possible. There are simply too many delays during holiday travel
to ensure you can get to those connections on time.

Many of the sites you visit online will allow you to sign up for special offers
and promotions. You should take advantage of these offers so that you don't have
to continually return to their site to check for changes in prices. Some of them
even allow you to enter a price so that you can be notified if the price of the
trip you want drops to that price. For those that can only afford holiday
travel if it fits a specific budget, this is a valuable feature.

During your search online for holiday travel, be flexible with your dates. You
will be able to save hundreds of dollars just by being willing to leave a day
earlier or leaving in the evening instead of the afternoon. Those that want a
specific travel arrangement will find this ties them into more expensive
offers. Even if you travel a day earlier and have to pay for a hotel room that
extra night you could save hundreds of dollars.

It does take some initial planning of where you want to travel and how you are
going to get there in order to find the best travel deals. Investing a few
hours of your time in getting the best price though is well worth the savings
you will get from it. Millions of people travel each year over the holidays but
some of them pay more for the same trip because they didn't look for holiday
travel deals online.

Save Money with a Timeshare for the Holidays

Anyone that travels over the holidays knows that accommodations are generally
more expensive than during other times of the year. They can also sell out fast
if you don't make your reservation very early. One way to save money when you
travel for the holidays is to invest in a timeshare. They are available in most
locations that people often travel to for a holiday vacation.

What you may not be aware of is that may other towns and cities around the
world have timeshares too. This means if you are going to visit friends and
family for the holidays you can still get a great price on a timeshare. You
definitely will need some time of your own while you visit for the holidays and
you don't want to crowd other people in their home. A timeshare property can be
a home, apartment, condo, and even a hotel.

For those of you not familiar with timeshares, they involve a group of people
buying property together. Each person is an owner of the property and they get
the privilege of using the timeshare for a specific period of time each year.
You have the ability to sell your timeshare at any time so you aren't obligated
to keep it forever if you don't want to continue using it.

You also have the right to sublet your timeshare when you are authorized to use
it. This means if you decide to travel somewhere else for the holidays or to
stay home you can let someone else use it. This way they get a great deal on
their accommodations for the holidays and you aren't out any money since you
didn't use it yourself. You can advertise your timeshare slot online and likely
get plenty of excellent responses right away from interested parties.

If you don't have time to purchase a timeshare right now before you travel for
the holidays you should take a look online at those that are being sublet. This
way you can take advantage of the availability of the property for your holiday
travel. This is also an excellent way to find out about the different types of
timeshare properties in that area that you may want to invest in down the road.

You may be surprised to find that you can also purchase timeshares from various
hotel chains. The most popular one is Marriott and you can transfer it all over
the world. This means you can travel anywhere you want for the holidays and
take advantage of your timeshare at the local Marriott hotel. Since this
popular hotel chain is very common you will likely find one nearby.

It is very wise to take your time looking for the right timeshare to use over
the holidays though. You don't want to get yourself involved in a scam and find
out the actual property doesn't even exist that you have paid for. Take the time
to research information about the company and check with the Better Business
Bureau. This way you know who you are dealing with.

Take your time to read over all the details of a timeshare property before you
invest in it. Don't just take the sellers word for it that you will be able to
use it over the holidays when you want it. Make sure you have all that
information in writing. Don't be pressured into signing paperwork either until
you have had the time to read it. They will often tell you that other people
are interested in the timeshare to get you to make a rash decision.

You will be able to save plenty of money when you use a timeshare for your
holiday travel. However, you will only be able to do so if you take your time
to research what is offered. This way you can make an informed decision to
purchase the right property for your holiday travel needs and for your budget.

Save Money on Holiday Travel

So many people travel for important holidays that you may be quite disappointed
with the cost of it. There are great ways you can save money though whether you
are traveling by plane, train, or bus to get to your destination for the
holidays. It is essential that you book your travel arrangements early. You
don't want to be stuck without a way to get where you want to be for the
holidays due to everything being sold out. You also want to take your time to
compare prices.

You will find some travel dates should simply be avoided around the holidays.
This will allow you to avoid crowds which often equal substantial delays. You
will also be able to get the same travel arrangements at a lower price just by
carefully calculating the best times to travel.

You may not think that Valentine's Day is a top travel holiday but it is. It is
very important for people to be able to spend this holiday together. Since
Presidents Day is very close to Valentine's Day many people are able to take a
long weekend. Avoid traveling during this Monday holiday and you will save
money. Instead fly out in the next few days and then stay for a couple of days
after Valentine's Day instead of before.

Spring break takes place for about three weeks in March depending on which
schools people are attending. If you plan to travel for spring break you need
to plan it very carefully to maximize your time and to get good prices. Many
colleges allow people to complete their final exams early. Try to do this and
travel on a Wednesday or Thursday. Avoid peak days such as Friday and Saturday.
You also want to come back on week days as they will be lower volume dates for
travel.

Many people fly to see their parents for Mother's Day and for Father's Day.
These are important holidays that take place on a Sunday in May and then on a
Sunday in June. Traveling on the actual day will save you money over flying out
on the Friday or Saturday before. This way you can arrive on their special day
and hang out for several days. Your return trip should be for one of the
weekdays following the holiday instead of on the weekend.

Thanksgiving is a common holiday that people travel for. Since it always falls
on a Thursday, most people get an extended weekend so they can go visit for a
few days or take a vacation. The peak of this vacation for travel takes place
on the day before Thanksgiving. However, if you are willing to travel on
Thanksgiving Day you can avoid the crowds. You will also find you save up to
50% of the price of getting there just by waiting less than 24 hours.

Most people return from their Thanksgiving vacation on the Sunday following the
holiday. Try to avoid this day as well and return on the following Monday. Most
employers want some people to be in the office on the Wednesday before so offer
to do it in exchange for having the following Monday off.

Christmas is another peak holiday travel occasion, and you will find the fares
get much higher the closer it gets to the 25th of December. Try to travel
before the 19th in order to take advantage of the best possible fares. If you
won't be able to stay through New Year's that choose a day in the middle of the
week after Christmas. These are often slower days than the weekends and you will
get better prices.

Avoid travel on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day as they are two of the most
popular travel dates of the year. Fares are often double what they normally
would be so you will save yourself plenty of money and delays if you work
around them when you travel for the holidays.

Preparing your Vehicle for Holiday Travel

No one wants to have their holiday travel plans ruined due to their vehicle
breaking down, so make sure you give it plenty of attention before hand.
Complete a thorough check of all the routine items on your vehicle. The oil
should be changed and you will want to check all the fluids including the
transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and brake fluid.

Don't wait until something breaks on your vehicle to replace it, especially
when you are traveling for the holidays. Carefully inspect all of the hoses for
signs of wear as you never know when they will end up breaking. If you haven't
used your windshield wipers for a while make sure they are in good condition.

Have someone stand behind your vehicle so you can make sure both of your turn
signals work as well as your break lights. Replace any bulbs that are burned
out or seem to be dim. Do the same for your headlights on both low beams and
high beams. This will ensure other vehicles are able to see you coming and know
when you are planning to stop or to turn. It is a good idea to carry fuses in
your glove box so that you can replace any that may burn out during your travel
for the holidays.

Your tires are very important when you are traveling for the holidays. Check
the wear patterns on the tread to make sure they are in good shape. Of the two
front tires are wearing unevenly you may need to have your vehicle aligned. You
may find it is time to rotate the tires on your vehicle as well. This involves
moving the front ones to the back and the back ones to the front.

Depending on the time of year when you travel for the holidays, you may
experience bad weather. Make sure you have a survival kit in your car that
includes tire changes which many end up being mandatory to drive on the roads
in some areas. You also want this survival kit to include a flashlight with
fresh batteries, flares, food, water, a first aid kit, blankets, a car jack,
and a gas can.

It is a good idea to make sure you have a cell phone will you as well. Most
models come with a battery charger that plugs right into your cigarette lighter
so you don't have to worry about the battery running low while you are traveling
for the holidays. If you don't want to get caught up in a lengthy cell phone
contract, look for those offered at retail stores. They are inexpensive and
they work well. However, you buy the amount of minutes you want for the phone
in advance. When the minutes run out you can choose to buy more or simple get
rid of the phone.

It is never a good idea to be in a vehicle without seatbelts for all
passengers. However, some states don't require the use of a seatbelt so people
don't pay attention to them working or not. If you are traveling out of state
for the holidays you may be going through those that do require them and you
need to be prepared.

Accidents can still happen even when you have properly prepared your vehicle
for holiday travel. Seatbelts and car seats offer you a way to reduce the
chances of serious injury if such an event does take place. In your glove box
you should have a disposable camera so you can take pictures of the accident
scene for your insurance company. Make sure you have a pen and paper handy as
well so you can exchange insurance and personal information with the other
party involved.

Thousands of people choose to travel for the holidays using their own personal
vehicle. Doing your very best to make sure your vehicle is in excellent working
condition will help you to arrive at your destination safely.

Preparing your Home for Holiday Travel

While you are likely very excited about your upcoming plans to travel for the
holidays, you need to make sure you take the time to prepare your home as well.
Criminals are very aware that people travel for the holidays and they look for
homes to target during that period of time. There is a much lower risk of
getting caught during this time because so many people are paying attention to
their own plans.

Make sure you carefully check all the doors and the windows before you leave
for the holidays. They should all be securely locked to prevent someone from
slipping into them undetected. If you have an alarm system you want to make
sure you set it before you head out. Put fresh batteries is motion lights and
outdoor video equipment that you may have installed. Don't leave extra keys
under the mat or other common locations where criminals can easily find them
and walk right into your home.

You don't want your home to appear to be empty when you travel for the
holidays. If possible have a friend or neighbor stop by daily. Most criminals
stake out homes so if they see different lights on or they see fresh footprints
in the snow they will be less likely to target your home.

Either have someone collect your mail and newspapers daily or put them on hold
until you return from your holiday travel. Not only is this a dead give away
that you are out of town, it can also lead to identity theft. All it takes is
for a criminal to get their hands on your bank statement or a credit card
statement and they could wipe out your account and charge items that you will
have against your credit card.

If you are traveling during the colder part of the year for the holidays, have
someone shovel your driveway and sidewalks. This definitely gives the
impression that you are home or at least that someone is keeping a very close
eye on your home. You also want to set your thermostat at a decent temperature
while you are way. The added expense of the heating bill will be nothing
compared to the damage from broken pipes that may have froze due to the drop in
temperatures while you were traveling for the holidays.

Make sure a friend or a neighbor has a way to contact you in the event of an
emergency involving your home while you are away for the holidays. Hopefully
they won't need to contact you but having such measures in place can be very
beneficial if an issue does arise. They may be able to take care of low
priority issues for you such as the sprinkler system not turning off or someone
hitting your mailbox with their vehicle due to sliding on icy roads.

It can be very nice to travel for the holidays, but do all you can in order to
ensure your home will be protected while you are away. You don't want to come
home and find that your home has been burglarized or later that your personal
information has been compromised. Some planning before you travel for the
holidays will help to ensure everything is safe and sound when you return.

Popular Vacation Spots that are perfect for the Holidays

Many people get time off over the holidays, and they want to make the most of
that time. There are plenty of places where you can spend the holidays enjoying
a lovely vacation. Disneyland and Disney World are among the busiest places on
holidays, including Christmas day. People of all ages find the magic kingdoms
to be a delightful place to make memories for the holidays with their entire
family.

Since Thanksgiving falls on a Thursday, many people find themselves with a four
or five day weekend over that period of time. Going to Las Vegas is a great
place to spend this holiday as it is always alive with action 24 hours per day.
You will also find plenty of restaurants in Las Vegas that offer you the best
Thanksgiving Day meal you have ever been a part of.

Las Vegas is also one of the most popular locations for New Years Eve. The
entire strip is shut down from traffic and people are dancing, drinking, and
having a good time in the streets. Many people compare it to the activities
taking place in New Orleans for Mardi Gras.

Spring break is a very popular holiday for the high school and college crowds.
They often choose to spend that time at various beaches including those in
Florida and California. Hotels are over run with these people having parties
all night long and then spending their days at the beach.

Most of these beaches host fabulous activities during spring break to make sure
people keep coming back year after year. Live music, dances, and various
contests are just a sample of the different contests you can enter. Since
spring break falls differently for various schools, these beaches are often
full from the second week of March until the very end of the month.

Surprising someone you love with a fun vacation to another country or a part of
the world they have always wanted to see is a great way to share the holidays.
Imagine waking up Christmas morning in Spain or Paris instead of at home. There
are plenty of great places that you can see during the holidays so don't limit
your options.

The down side to traveling to popular vacation spots for the holidays is that
they are in demand. That means you will likely pay more to visit them during
that time of year than normal. You will also need to make your reservations
early or you will find that all the flights or the hotels have sold out and you
won't be able to spend the holidays there.

Take a look at various vacation package deals to help you save as much money as
possible when you take a vacation over the holidays. Most package deals for
travel include your airfare, hotel accommodations, and a rental car if you want
one. You can also choose to add tickets for shows or events you want to take
part in.

Once you have decided where you want to spend the holidays, you can start
comparing prices. Find out what your local travel agent can offer you and surf
the internet on your own. Don't forget to look in the travel section of the
newspaper or to take advantage of advertisements you get in the mail. For many
people the ability to be able to take a vacation over the holidays will depend
on the price they are able to get the trip for.

There will also be more people to deal with at that particular vacation spot
over the holidays in most instances. If you don't like being a part of a large
crowd or you hate to wait in line, you will want to prepare yourself for these
issues while vacationing over the holidays. This way you can focus on having a
great time instead of getting stressed out over such issues that you have no
control over.

Planning a Flight around the Holidays

There is always a chance that your flight will get cancelled or delayed
regardless of when you fly. However, the holidays are a very busy time for
airports and you don't want to spend Christmas there instead of with your
family. Be prepared for long lines at the check in desk and security. Even
though you should be at the airport two hours before your plane takes off
during normal travel times, you will want to increase that up to three hours
when you travel around the holidays.

Try to keep the amount of items you bring along to a minimum. It will make
checking in your baggage easier and prevent such items from being lost or
damaged. If you are traveling for Christmas and you want to send gifts it is a
good idea to mail them separately and they will be there when you arrive. If
you do decide to pack them don't wrap them as they are subject to being
inspected. You can wrap the gifts when you arrive at your destination.

Traveling around Thanksgiving or Christmas always comes with the risk of the
weather being a problem so make sure you are prepared. Some travelers have had
their flights delayed for a couple of days due to storms coming in during these
times. It is a good idea to arrive at the airport prepared for the worst. Make
sure you have plenty of activities with you for children to stay busy with. You
also want to carry snacks and drinks so you don't have to pay the outrageous
prices at the airport for these items.

If you have specific dates of travel in order to be spend the holidays away
from home you will want to secure your travel arrangements early. Look for the
best possible deals online and with a travel agent. If you want until the last
minute though in hopes of prices dropping you may be disappointed that you
won't get to go because the flights are sold out.

Many people save money on flights by taking connections or accepting a layover
or two. You may want to skip this money saving tip during the holidays just
because most airports will be very busy. You don't want to have to deal with
hurrying across a busy airport terminal to find your connecting flight. If you
can get a decent price on a direct flight then make sure you do so.

It is very important that you have all your travel documents and a printed copy
of your travel itinerary. Most airline staff will be overwhelmed with people
asking for assistance during this time of the year. You don't want to arrive
and discover that you don't have a reservation after all and that there is not
a space on the plane for you.

If you want to avoid the crowds during holiday travel, consider taking a very
early morning flight or a late evening flight. You will find these are often
less expensive as well. While it may interrupt your normal sleep patterns, it
can help to reduce the amount of stress and anxiety while you are traveling
during the holidays.

For those planning to fly with children around the holidays, make sure you keep
a careful eye on them. They can quickly become separated from your family in the
crowd of people moving around. Strollers are a good option for small children.
Make sure all the adults in the party know which flight they are taking and the
airline in case they get separated as well.

You can have a fabulous trip to visit your family and friends over the holidays
if you are prepared. Paying attention to the guidelines of the airlines is very
important to ensure you have a save trip. Being on time will help to ensure
that you don't have your plans crushed because you have to catch a plane in the
following days.

Packing for Holiday Travel

We have all seen those people with tons of luggage arriving at the airport or
traveling on the highway with their car crammed so full of items that they
passengers have very little room to breath. There are ways to pack light for
the holidays but to also ensure you have everything you need. This will
definitely make your holiday travel plans much more enjoyable.

To help ensure you don't forget anything important, make yourself a list of
items you can't leave behind. Keep the list handy so you can add to it as you
think of something else. Make sure you check the weather forecast in the days
right before you pack. This way you can be sure to have outfits and shoes that
are going to work well for both the occasions and the weather. You don't want
to be stuck in the snow with nothing but high heels to wear for the evening.

Avoid packing clothing for holiday travel that can get ruined or stained if
something gets spilled. You don't want to be self conscious about the drink you
spilled on it. If you are attending parties then it is very possible someone
else can bump into you. Be prepared for such accidents to take place and try
not to let them ruin your fun when you travel for the holidays.

If you will be staying in a hotel, chances are they will have plenty of items
you need that you can eliminate from your luggage. Contact the hotel directly
or check out their website to be sure. Common items found that you can leave
behind include soap, shampoo, conditioner, location, a blow dryer, and an iron.

If you do have to pack liquid items, try to use trail sizes or to buy small
containers to fill from larger bottles. Make sure these items are placed in a
make up bag or a freezer bag. This way if they happen to leak they won't get on
your clothing.

Take a close look at the makeup and perfume you use. It is very possible that
you can get by with packing only one kind of perfume and make up colors that
offer you plenty of selection. This is more effective than packing your entire
make up collection and then deciding what you will use once you arrive. You
also want to leave expensive jewelry behind because you don't want it to get
lost or stolen. If you aren't able to wear it when you travel then it is best
not to take it at all.

You will be amazed at how much room is lost in a suitcase due to not taking the
time to fold up items properly. You have to get creative if you want to maximize
the amount of space you have. It is easy to place socks and underwear into your
shoes so they won't take up any space at all.

Take the time to fold pants and shirts neatly into the suitcase so you can fit
more of them in. You don't want to have your bags so full you have to sit on
them to close them. This damages the zippers and it will result in you having
to replace your luggage sooner than you should. If your luggage is chosen for
inspection during your holiday travel it won't be such a chore for the
inspectors if you have taken your time to pack wisely.

Navigation Systems you can use for Holiday Travel

Nothing is more frustrating that trying to travel for the holidays and not be
able to figure out how to get there. Even if you have a plan when you leave
home, things can get turned around quickly if you don't have a good sense of
direction. Stopping for directions isn't always effective because people don't
always have the information you need to get to your destination.

There are plenty of amazing navigation systems you can use to help take the
frustration out of holiday travel though. Advances in technology offer us a
great way to have these tools at our fingertips. Many people travel with their
laptop computers and you can access travel routes either online or with various
types of computer software programs.

Even a simple compass in your vehicle can assist you when you least expect it.
I was recently driving along when there was a detour due to road construction.
I followed everyone else and then came to some signs. It said 5 miles East and
then 11 Miles North to get to my destination. The problem was there were no
arrows and I didn't know which way I was headed on that road. Luckily my car
has a built in compass so I was able to figure it out. If you vehicle doesn't
have one then you need to purchase one. It will come in handy as you travel for
the holidays.

This information will allow you to find the fastest route as well as the
shortest route to get to your holiday destination. You can also find the route
that has access to hotels, restaurants, and rest areas. This is great
information if you are traveling with children because you will find you have
to stop more often in order to keep everyone happy.

Having a laptop can also keep you up to date with the weather conditions during
your holiday travel. This is important because if roads are closed or there are
delays due to an accident you can easily find yourself an alternate route. Many
people have similar types of navigation systems on their cell phones. The most
high tech gadget is the very popular iPhone. If offers access to the internet
and has a 3 1/2 inch monitor for you to view the information on.

Many vehicles feature a Global Positioning System known as GPS. There are some
models you can purchase separately and then add them to any model of vehicle
that you have. This is a very good tool that you will always have when you are
operating your vehicle. Even if you don't know exactly where you are, a
satellite system does and it send that information to the GPS system. You can
then enter the information for your travel destination and it will give you the
directions you need to get there.

Don't spend your time traveling for the holidays caught up in traffic or bad
weather. You also don't want to drive for hours and then realize you have been
going the wrong direction. The landscaping of the area can change over the
years leaving you unfamiliar with the way to get there on your own. These types
of navigational tools will definitely help you to get your barrings and to
arrive for the holidays on time.

Keep up to Date with the Weather During Holiday Travel

It is very important that you keep yourself aware of the weather for holiday
travel. During the colder times of the year many parts of the world experience
heavy snowstorms and even blizzards. You need to be aware of what is unfolding
on the path you will be taking to your holiday destination. This will allow you
to be very prepared for it and have a safe journey.

To ensure you pack the right clothing, pay attention to the weather in the days
before you pack. Your local news channel may not be of assistance if you are
travel a long way for the holidays. The internet is the best source of
information for finding up to date weather that will span the course of your
holiday travel. You can also contact someone where you are traveling to and
have them keep an eye on their local weather reports for you.

If you are taking a flight, train, or bus to get to your destination you will
want to find out what their policies are for delays due to the weather. If the
weather is questionable before you leave to the terminal you will want to call
first. There is no point of you sitting there instead of in the comfort of you
home if the transportation has been delayed by several hours or canceled due to
the weather.

Pay close attention to when the flight will be rescheduled so you can adjust
your plans. Too many people show up at the airport hoping for the best and then
end up spending countless hours will nothing to do. One reason why people do
this is the fear of not being able to drive to the airport due to the bad
weather. You will have to decide if that is something you are willing to risk
or if you are going to hang out at the airport and see what happens.

If it is warm when you leave home but it will be significantly chilly where you
arrive, make sure you carry on a jacket with you. Pay attention to your shoes as
well because you don't want to be slipping or risk falling down out there. Your
body won't be able to handle the quick change in temperature so make sure you
are prepared for what you will find. Likewise, if you are traveling from a cold
climate to a warm one for the holidays make sure you dress in layers so you can
stay comfortable upon arrival.

For those driving to their holiday destination, paying attention to the weather
reports is also important. You will be amazed at how many people drive from a
location where there is no snow and then panic when they are having to drive in
it with bumper to bumper cars all along the interstate.

Tune in to local weather channels on the radio to find out about any road
closures, detours, or accidents. It is a good idea to have an alternate route
printed out just in case these things occur. If you find the weather has become
too severe for safe travel you need to be responsible and get a hotel room until
conditions improve.

Make sure your vehicle is equipped with all the features it needs to handle the
changes in the weather. You should have a good heater with defrost options and
an air conditioner that will help you to stay cool. Your windshield wipers and
hazard lights also need to be working. If you have any issues with these
various features you need to fix them before you engage in holiday travel or
rent another vehicle for the trip.

As a holiday traveler, it is your responsibility to keep up to date with the
weather. While it can significantly affect the plans you had for the holidays
there is nothing you can do about it. Fighting with Mother Nature is a losing
battle that you don't want to be on the other side of. Being prepared for the
weather can mean the difference between a safe holiday trip and one that is
full of regrets later on.

How to Travel with Food for the Holidays

Preparing food to share at the holiday festivities is a common practice in our
society. However, you need to be able to travel with the food so that it will
remain delicious when you arrive at your destination. Foods can move around
causing them not to look as pretty when you arrive. You also don't want the
food to tip over and get all over your vehicle. This can be extremely messy as
well as be quite frustrating.

There are some wonderful containers out there that allow you to transport foods
for the holidays without too much trouble. They are insulated containers that
will keep the foods hot or cold. Many of them come with a covering that zips up
around them like a suitcase. They even come with a handle. You should consider
placing these items in a box so they won't have as much room to move around
while you travel to your holiday destination.

You do need to be very careful about food spoiling when you transport it for
the holidays. You definitely don't want to get anyone sick due to food
poisoning. If it will be hot or you are traveling a long distance avoid foods
such as potato salad with mayonnaise that can easily spoil quickly. Be prepared
for delays too because the amount of people traveling on the roads over the
holidays can result in the food being in your car for hours more than you had
originally anticipated.

You can also place such items in a cooler with plenty of ice to keep them cold
while you are traveling your holiday destination. Make sure you keep an eye on
the amount of ice in the cooler and then refill it as necessary. If you are
carrying breast milk for an infant along for the holiday travel you need to
keep it cold in a cooler as well.

You may find it is much easier to ask the host of the holiday gathering if you
can prepare the foods you want to contribute to the dinner upon your arrival.
This way you can bring all the ingredients and prepare them without worrying
about them moving around or spoiling. If you need some refrigerated items you
can ask the host to pick them up for you and then pay them later. This is much
easier than trying to fight your way into a packed grocery store around the
holidays or finding them closed.

The downside to this is that you may be preparing foods in a kitchen you are
unfamiliar with. The oven may bake at a different rate than yours so make sure
you keep a close eye on baking times. You should also bring other clothing to
change into once you have completed your kitchen duties. This way you don't
have to worry about getting food on them that will make you self conscious as
you sit down to visit with other guests.

Many people that travel for the holidays want to bring food to share with
others. It can be your famous cheesecake or your mom's recipe for sweet
potatoes. Make sure you plan ahead to have all the equipment and utensils you
will need to safely transport foods for the holidays. You are better off
arriving empty handed than with food that has been in compromising conditions
during the course of travel.

Holiday Travel with your Pets

The holidays are a time when many people travel, and that leads to the dilemma
of what to do with the family pets. Many people choose to bring them along
because they don't have anyone to care for them and they don't want to place
them in a dog kennel for the duration of their holiday trip.

Traveling with your pets for the holidays can be a pleasant experience if you
are prepared for it. Otherwise it can turn into a nightmare due to the care
your pets need and where you will be staying. If you are visiting family or
friends of the holidays you really need to make sure they are comfortable with
you bringing you pets along.

Keep in mind that most hotels won't allow you to keep pets in your room. Make
sure you look into this information before you secure the reservation. Those
hotels that do offer you the right to bring your pets will you will charge you
a deposit just in case your pet destroys something in the room during your stay.

Most airlines will make accommodations for your pets to travel in the plane but
they have to be secured in a carrier. This can be very stressful for pets that
are used to roaming around freely. They will have to fly in the cargo area of
the plane unless the airline allows small cats and small dogs to be placed
under your seat for the duration of the flight.

If you plan to place your pet in a carrier let them get used to it in the weeks
prior to your travel plans for the holidays. This way they won't be so
overwhelmed by the concept of being in the carrier for the duration of the
flight. This can be quite traumatic for your pet and you don't want them
injuring themselves during the flight.

Keep in mind that they will charge you more if your pet is aboard the plane
with you instead of with the cargo. Still, this is a great way to ensure your
pet is being well cared for while your travel for the holidays. If you have any
connecting flights though you will definitely want to keep your pet on board
with you. The risk of losing your pet this way will really put a damper on the
holiday festivities.

You will not be able to take your pets along with you on the bus lines or the
train due to their strict guidelines. The only exception to this rule is seeing
eye dogs as not allowing them on board is a violation under the Americans with
Disabilities Act. As a result many people traveling with pets for the holidays
decide to take their own vehicle.

Make sure you have plenty of food and water for them so they can stay hydrated
and feeling well. If you are traveling by car you need to plan to stop often
for them to exercise and use the bathroom. It is a good idea to take along
their favorite toys or blankets in order to minimize their stress during travel.

Pay close attention to the weather for your holiday travel as it can be quite a
change for your pet. They are likely used to their normal climate and they may
have trouble coping with the extreme heat or the extreme cold.

It is very possible to travel with your pets for the holidays but it take
plenty of planning. You want them to be as comfortable as possible without it
affecting your ability to enjoy traveling for the holidays as well. Even though
you may want to have your pets with you, carefully weigh the decision. If you
determine that they travel conditions won't be right for them then find a
quality kennel for them to stay at so you can still enjoy your holiday travel.

Holiday Travel by Train

More and more people are turning to Amtrak as a reliable way to travel for the
holidays. After the terrorist attacks of 09/11/01, airport security has become
increasingly difficult to get through. As a result most airports have long
lines and delays taking place around the holidays because they don't want to
become lax even when it is busy.

Traveling with children for the holidays can be stressful, especially if you
are traveling with them alone. Keeping them entertained in a car for the trip
is often a two person job so one can drive and one can play games or offer
snacks to keep everyone in the vehicle happy for the duration of the trip.

Airplanes are very cramped and most people don't do well with children roaming
the isles or crying during the flight. For younger children, the amount of
pressure that can build in their ears on an airplane is very painful. Being
stuck on a runway for hours will definitely make children uncomfortable and
these delays often happen around the holidays. If you have ever tried to change
diapers in the small airplane bathrooms you will know that it isn't an easy feat
to accomplish.

Amtrak is very family oriented so this may be the best mode of transportation
for your holiday travel. The cars are roomy and you are able to get up and walk
around freely. There is plenty of scenery along the railway routes too for you
to enjoy.

If you are be going on a long trip for the holidays, Amtrak offers sleeping
cars of various sizes. This is a great way for your children to have the room
they need to take a nap and to play. Most of the family sleeping cars offer
enough space for two adults and two children comfortably.

You will find great holiday travel deals on Amtrak when you reserve a sleep car
as well. Many times you will get coupons for free meals offered in the dining
car. This is an expense you will have to cover on your own otherwise so it
helps offset the cost of the sleep car.

Make sure you make reservations for Amtrak early though. They tickets often
sell out quickly for holiday travel and they have a limited number of sleeping
cars. You don't want to be stuck without one or have to accept one that is too
small for comfort because you waited too long to make your reservation.

Most train stations are very well set up and you can even leave your car there
when you board the Amtrak for free. Most airports charge you by the day to
leave your vehicle behind and that is an expense that quickly adds up. You can
either have your family or friends pick you up at the train station for your
destination or choose alternate modes of transportation. There will likely be
rental cars at the terminal or you can take a taxi cab.

You can go online to find out the various destinations that Amtrak travels to.
If they don't go to your exact location but within 100 miles you may want to
consider having someone pick you up there or to rent a car to go the rest of
the way. Amtrak is affordable and much more comfortable than taking an airplane
or traveling all that way in a car.

Holiday Cruises

Cruise ships are becoming more popular for holidays than ever due to the amount
of entertainment they offer. Many people have always had the belief that a
holiday cruise is more than they can afford. Yet the prices are quite
reasonable and you can choose various amenities the cruise ship offers as well
as the location. This is a great way for the entire family to share the
holidays without anyone having to plan the activities, cook the food, or make
enough room for everyone.

Make sure you book your holiday cruise early though as they sell out fast. If
you have a large number of people in your party you don't want any of them to
get left out. You can get the best prices and choose the cabin size you want
too by booking your holiday cruise early. You will be responsible for your own
transportation to the port so make sure you consider that in your price as well.

If you decide to take a holiday cruise for Christmas you will find everything
is decorated with the theme. There will even be a Santa Claus to greet children
on the cruise ship. You can bet the lines will be much shorter than those in
your local department stores. Some of the most popular holiday cruises are
those by Disney that include a trip to Disneyland or Disney World. If you are
looking for a white Christmas then you may want to travel to Alaska or
Antarctica. For a warmer Christmas you may want a cruise to the Caribbean.

In order to get the most enjoyment out of a holiday cruise, find out the
various activities that are offered. Make sure there is plenty for everyone in
your group to enjoy. If you find a particular cruise offers too many activities
that you won't take part in you need to look for another cruise that is more
compatible with your hobbies and lifestyle.

The internet is a great place to compare prices for various holiday cruises and
you can take a look at the different pictures too. Knowing the exact layout of
the cruise ship and what your cabin will look like can help to relieve the
anxiety associated with it. This will also help to build the excitement for all
who will be traveling with you. Simply e-mail them with the information so that
they can look at it too.

Your local travel agent will also have plenty of brochures you can pick up for
free to explore the options for holiday cruises. They can help you plan the
trip that you want for the very best price if you aren't able to do it
yourself. This is a great option if there are several parties going on the
holiday cruise and they want to each pay separately. They can ensure everyone
gets rooms by each other and take care of other such details to make the
holiday cruise even more of a success.

In order to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday cruise, let those attending has
a say in where you will go and the type of cruise you will have. The price may
be a factor for some of the people involved so make sure you try to find
something moderately priced. There are holiday cruise ships specifically for
adults as well as those designed for families.

Dealing with Motion Sickness when you travel for the Holidays

If you or someone in your family suffers from motion sickness then you have an
extra element to prepare for when you think about traveling for the holidays.
Not everyone experiences motion sickness the same and it may not happen every
time. For example some people get motion sick on a cruise ship but not while
they are in a car. Others may get queasy when they are on a train but not on an
airplane.

Common symptoms of motion sickness include sweating, nausea, dizziness, saliva
in the mouth that is more than usual, and vomiting. Most people know when it is
coming on and do all they can to minimize the effects. Many women many suffer
from motion sickness when they are pregnant due to the changes taken place in
their body. Children are also quite susceptible to it as well.

There are plenty of things you can do on your own to help prevent the effects
of motion sickness from occurring. Many adults find they don't suffer from
motion sickness if they drive the car. This is because the sensors in their
brain view the scenery flashing by differently when they are in the driver's
seat. This is why so many get sick when they travel by train. If you are
susceptible to motion sickness as a passenger in a car avoid a window seat on a
train. You also want to avoid those seats that face backwards.

Children should avoid trying to play games or read books in a moving vehicle if
they suffer from motion sickness. They should also ride in the middle seat in
order to offer them a view out the front of the vehicle instead of from their
peripheral vision on the side windows. Offer them light snacks before travel
such as crackers and water. Avoid having them travel on an empty stomach or
after eating a large meal.

For those that still suffer from motion sickness, an over the counter or a
prescription medication may be required for successful holiday travel to take
place. Make sure you carefully follow the instructions of such medications.
Don't exceed the recommended dose. If it says to take it with food or water
then make sure you do so. Some of them require consumption during a specific
period of time prior to your departure so pay attention to this important
detail.

Even so, no method or medication is 100% foolproof when it comes to motion
sickness. Some people experience it only once in a while and others deal with
it all the time. Try to get to some fresh air if possible. If you are on an
airplane turn on the air above you and take slow, deep breaths. You will find
bags offered in case you do end up having to vomit. You can also try to make
your way to the bathroom where you will have more privacy.

While it may be embarrassing you need to understand you aren't the only one
that has problems with motion sickness. The fact that the mode of
transportation you are taking may be full during the holiday season can be
stressful but you will never have to see most of them ever again. You may want
to carry extra clothing with you for those in your part that do suffer from
motion sickness, especially children who may end up vomiting on their clothing.

Don't let your holiday travel plans be stopped due to your fear of suffering
from motion sickness. Do all you can to subside the symptoms on your own. If
that isn't effective then try various over the counter products. As a last
resort as your doctor for a prescription medication to help ensure you can get
through the travel process so you can enjoy your holidays. If you find certain
types of transportation are more difficult for you than others you should avoid
them if possible.

Children Traveling alone for the Holidays

Due to the number of non-traditional families in our society, it is common for
custody agreements to require children to travel over the holidays to be with
the other parent. This is an issue that many parents have to deal with in the
best way possible. If the parents live in close proximity they can easily drive
them to the agreed upon destination. If the divorce is amicable it may even be
possible for each parent to drive half way for the exchange of the children.

However, it isn't always possible for parents to be able to do this for one
reason or another and that means that children will end up traveling alone for
the holidays. You want to make this as smooth of a process for them as you
possibly can. Make sure you talk to your child about the process and they know
exactly what will be taking place. It is important that you talk to them about
not going with strangers for any reason while they are traveling alone for the
holidays.

Make sure you pack your child plenty of activities for them to entertain
themselves during the flight. It is a good idea to pack them drinks and snacks
too in case they get hungry. Never leave your child until they have boarded the
type of transportation they are taking. If there is a layover or a cancellation
they will be left alone.

If possible send your child with a cell phone they can use in the case of
emergencies. You should also pack a list of contact phone numbers with them and
any medical information that could be useful in the event of an accident. Avoid
placing children who are flying alone for the holidays on those flights that
have layovers if you can help it. In the event that it is necessary make sure a
flight attendant will be escorting them to that location.

The safest mode of transportation for you child if they are traveling alone to
visit the other parent for the holidays is to book them a flight. It may be
more expensive but you will be more confident about them going alone. If
possible don't send your child alone on a flight if they have never been on an
airplane before. The stress of it can be too much for them to handle.

Let the airline know at the time of booking that your child will be traveling
alone. They will keep a close eye on the child during the flight and find out
who they have to be delivered to at the airport. This person will need to have
their photo ID with them even if the child knows them in order to follow safety
procedures. Most airlines consider a minor to be traveling alone for the
holidays if they are between 5 and 15 years of age. Younger children aren't
allowed to travel alone.

It is against the rules for children under 8 years of age to travel alone on
Amtrak. Those between the ages of 8 and 15 may travel alone as long as it is
not an overnight trip. They must reach their destination no later than 9 pm.
The child isn't allowed to transfer trains either or to get off at any
locations other than the one printed on their ticket.

The child will be interviewed by a staff member when they are brought to the
train station. If the child doesn't appear to be mature enough to travel alone
they will not be allowed on the train and the ticket price will be refunded. If
they are allowed to board the parent must sign a waiver releasing Amtrak from
all liability. The child will be issued a wristband so that all staff members
will know they are traveling alone.

Greyhound doesn't allow children under 8 years of age to travel alone either.
This isn't an option at all of the bus ride is more than 250 miles at Greyhound
has that limit on the number of miles a child can be on the bus. To get off for
any reason at a rest area or bus stop the child must be accompanied by the bus
driver. They are also required to sit in the seat immediately behind the bus
driver.

Avoid Conflicts when you Travel for the Holidays

It can be great fun to spend the holidays with your family and friends, but
there always seems to be a few people that you wish to avoid as well. Planning
ahead can help you to avoid conflicts when you travel for the holidays.
Remember that each person is entitled to their own thoughts and opinions. Agree
to disagree on issues that pertain to politics and various types of
controversial issues.

Everyone should take care of their own children during a gathering for the
holidays. This is to prevent issues that arise when different parenting styles
are in play. Make sure your children understand before you travel for the
holidays that you expect them to follow the same rules they have at home
regardless of what other children there will be allowed to do. This will help
to prevent confusion and frustration for everyone involved in the gathering for
the holidays.

In order to ensure everyone has a great time let those that will be in
attendance help to place the events. Make sure someone is in charge of
activities for the children to enjoy too. Take a look at the span of age groups
that will be present at the event and either come up with activities for all of
them to enjoy together or break them up into groups based on age.

Make sure everyone gets to take on a role for the holiday gathering that they
will enjoy. This way the overall event will be a success and everyone will look
forward to attending. Don't leave certain people to clean up from the dinner or
the activities just because you assume that is what they want to do. Knowing
what your role is before you travel for the holidays allows you to be prepared
for it.

Food is a common part of any holiday gathering but it can be a problem for some
people. Before you travel for the holidays make sure the host is aware of any
special foods you will need to have or to avoid. They can even offer dishes
without meat for those that are on a vegetarian diet. Some people have an
allergy to peanut oil or other foods though that need to be taken into
consideration. Don't wait until you arrive to tell them as it can mean foods
they spent time preparing will have to be thrown out.

If you have an unresolved issue with someone that will be at the family
gathering you should attempt to contact them prior to the event. This will help
both of you to relieve the tension and anxiety over the situation. If it is
something that can't be resolved then ask them to agree to put your differences
aside for the sake of everyone else that will be in attendance.

It doesn't mean you have to become best friends at the event but don't waste
your energy being in conflict with the individual. Focus on the good memories
that you can create for your family during the holidays instead. Too many
families end up with parties missing for the gathering because they don't want
to attend if someone else is. Taking the high road so that everyone can enjoy
their holiday more is an amazing gift you can give to them.

Are you ready to Travel for the Holidays?

Going to another country for the holidays is a great way to learn about a new
culture. In some instances the travel is to visit family that is located there
instead of just for a vacation. Regardless of the reason why you are traveling
to another country during the holidays, you need to make sure you are prepared
for the trip.

For most countries you are going to need a passport with a photo ID. This will
allow you to remain in the country for a specified amount of time. Generally,
this time frame is from 30 days to 90 days. You can take your passport photo at
any post office, but it is going to take several weeks to get it back. There is
an expedited option and it is very expensive. If you wait until the holiday
time to obtain your passport it is going to take much longer, even for the
expedited option.

Make sure you keep your passport and other pertinent travel documents in a safe
place. You don't want them to get lost or stolen as this can delay your travel
plans. Make sure you arrive early for your flight so that you can get through
all of the necessary inspections and verifications in plenty of time.

There may be vaccinations that you are required to get and others that you are
encouraged to get before you can travel to certain countries for the holidays.
Plan ahead and find out what these vaccinations are and then schedule
appointments with your doctor. Some of the required vaccinations have to be
given in a series with a specific amount of time between each shot in the
series to be administered. Therefore you don't want to wait until close to your
time of travel to take care of this matter.

Depending on where you are traveling, you may have to deal with a different
type of currency. You can get your money exchanged at your local bank before
you leave. This will save you time trying to take care of it when you arrive in
the other country for the holidays. There may be language differences as well
that you need to take into consideration.

Be careful what you pack when you travel for the holidays. Most modes of
transportation have strict guidelines on the size of your luggage, how many
bags each person can have, and the weight guidelines. They will be enforcing
these restrictions during the holidays because of the volume of people
traveling. You don't want to have to get rid of some of your items or purchase
more bags at the gift shop.

Make sure you are aware of how much luggage you have for your return trip as
well. While it can be fun to purchase items while you are there, think about
how you will get them back. It may be a good idea to pack an extra bag in your
luggage when you go so you can fill it up for the trip back. Another idea is to
have items shipped but that can be quite expensive.

While traveling to another country for the holidays can be exciting, you need
to remember that their customs may be significantly different than your own. Be
respectful of such differences to avoid any conflicts while you are in that
country. It is a good idea to read about the various customs that will be in
place so you won't reach them by accident.

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