Page 7 - AAA Now! – AAA Shelby County – November/December 2020

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5 TIPS TO MAKE HOLIDAY AIR TRAVEL EASIER
When you think of holiday travel, visions of the McCallister family frantically running through the airport to catch their plane (after unknowingly leaving the youngest McCallister, Kevin, “home alone,”
of course) may come to mind. But travel doesn’t have to be so rushed and stressful. Keep your sanity by following these simple tips to make traveling a bit easier this holiday season.
1. Avoid Peak Days. Crowds can be – somewhat – avoided by traveling during the non-peak days, such as Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Eve. Peak travel days are typically the Wednesday before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving, and for Christmas and New Year’s, the peak days change year after year.
2. Early Arrivals. No matter what day or time you decide to travel, airports are likely to be congested during the holidays. Leaving for the airport
early to anticipate the long check-in lines due to heightened security, traffic jams, full parking lots, and any unexpected issues – like getting a flat tire – is suggested. Flights are usually completely booked during this time of year, so if you miss your flight, rebooking to another might be a bit of a challenge.
For domestic flights, many airlines suggest arriving to the airport 90 minutes prior to your scheduled flight if you’re checking your luggage, or 60 minutes before if you’re carrying on. If you’re traveling internationally, it’s suggested to give yourself two hours. However, during the holiday season it’s wise to plan an earlier arrival time at the airport.
3. Register for TSA PreCheck®. Minimize the airport stress and breeze through security lines by registering for TSA PreCheck. With your $85 TSA PreCheck membership, which lasts five years, you don’t need to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets at the security check-ins. Visit tsa.gov/precheck for more details or to register.
4. Be Prepared. Make a list and check it twice for things like healthy snacks, phone and
tablet chargers, travel documents, prescription medications in original bottles (always include in your carry-on bag), and make sure to confirm any reservations such as hotel, rental car, and of course, flights.
5. Plan for Parking. As mentioned earlier, parking lots can fill up quickly during the busy travel season. Consider an alternative to using a parking garage, such as having someone drop you off at the airport, taking a cab or rideshare like Uber, booking a shuttle service, or reserving a spot at an airport parking lot.
AAA members receive 10% off parking and get free online reservations when booking their airport parking with The Parking Spot. Go to AAA.com/TheParkingSpot for more details.
Your AAA Travel agents are ready to help bring you some holiday cheer and less stress with all your holiday travel needs. To book a flight, car rental, hotel, and assist with other travel reservations, contact your AAA Travel Agent at 937-492-3167, visit AAA.com/Travel, or stop by your AAA office.
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TripAssist travel insurance can keep your plans from washing away.
Ask your AAA travel agent about protecting yourself and your budget.
Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.
Insurance products are underwritten by BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans.
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