Keep your Holidays Happy with these 7 Travel Tips
‘Tis the season to hit the road! Whether you’re taking a needed vacation or visiting loved ones this holiday season, avoid unnecessary stress with our 7 tips for happy holiday travel:
1. Do your research
Take some time to find the best flights, hotels, restaurants and travel routes for your trip. The right hotel can be the difference between a positive and negative travel experience. For example, Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront will offer special amenities like free made-to-order breakfast and a spa center, which can help you stay healthy and relaxed during and after your stay.
2. Expect the Unexpected
When it comes to holiday travel, you should hope for the best, but be prepared that anything can happen. Factor in time for bad weather, traffic jams, lost luggage, delayed flights, and long security lines so that if they do occur, you are not thrown off. Unexpected setbacks can be stressful, but If you are ready with extra time and a backup plan or two, you can navigate whatever comes your way.
3. Bring Entertainment
Especially when travelling with children, entertainment can add excitement to an otherwise boring and stressful trip. Bring holiday-themed movies, music and games to make the whole family happy. PRO TIP: download your music and movies onto your phone or computer, so you can keep the fun going without an internet connection. This will also help you reduce phone data usage which can really add up when streaming on the road.
4. Ship Your Gifts
If you’re flying or travelling in a smaller car, consider shipping your gifts to your destination. Wrapped presents might be inspected by airport security and take up a lot of valuable luggage space. Instead, if you mail your gifts, hotels like Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront are happy to receive your packages and make sure they get to your room.
5. Pack Healthy Snacks and Water
Save the unhealthy eating for after your car or plane ride! Fast food and processed snacks will make you stressed and sluggish during your trip. Instead, pack healthy food like trail mix, and drink water throughout the day. If you plan your healthy meals and snacks ahead of time, you can treat yourself to cheat meals when needed.
6. Use Your Smartphone
There are so many smartphone apps that can help with your holiday travel! If you’re driving, use the Google Maps app for directions and traffic updates. Flying this holiday season? Download your airline’s app for flight updates and the MyTSA app for security wait times. Guests at Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront can use the Hilton Honors app to easily reserve a room, check-in, and unlock their hotel room door. You’ll get an added level of comfort being able to control so many aspects of your travel from your phone.
7. Stay in the Holiday Spirit
Yes, holiday travel can be busy, unpredictable, and just plain stressful, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the holiday season! Savor this wonderful time with friends and family, and don’t forget to thank your restaurant, hotel, and flight staff.