Traveling during the holiday season can be stressful. It’s estimated that 42.2 million people will travel at least fifty miles from home over the Thanksgiving holiday alone! If you’re one of those heading out of town, we want to offer the following tips to help make your travel plans a little less stressful. The Energy Corridor District wishes you a happy start to your holiday season.

General Tips:

• Know the peak travel days and avoid them if possible.
• Confirm all travel arrangements before you leave so there are no surprises.
• If traveling with children, pack books, toys, DVD player and other items to entertain along the journey.
• Charge all electronics, batteries and cell phones before you leave.
• Be prepared!
• Be patient and enjoy your trip!

If Driving:

• Fill your vehicle with gas the night before your departure.
• Plan your route in advance. If you are embarking on a multi-day trip, plan your overnight stays and make reservations accordingly.
• Check weather forecasts as you do not want to experience any surprises!

If Flying:

• Allow extra time by arriving at the airport early; everything takes longer during the holidays due to the increased number of travelers.
• Be prepared -- Make sure you have all information for your trip (e.g., photo identification, confirmations, flight information, printed boarding pass, etc.)
• Prepare for security lines (e.g., remove shoes, take off jackets/belts/etc., store liquids in a clear separate bag, etc.).
• Pack lightly.
• Don’t wrap any gifts – they will likely be unwrapped for security checks.
• Accept delays. With the number of travelers and the potential for inclement weather (even if it’s elsewhere in the country).