Goway is a travel-planning site for travelers who want to pick up and escape—with minimal fuss.
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Given Goway’s extensive experience getting travelers from Point A to Point B without stress, the company also has a few expert insights for travelers facing a busy holiday season.
Want to get ahead at the airport without all the fuss and headaches?
Follow these six simple tips. Sometimes life is really that easy.
Tip # 1: Book flights first thing in the morning
Nobody likes waking up early—and definitely not going through security at 6 am. However, the best way to avoid flight delays and cancellations is to get there first. The later in the day your flight is scheduled, the more likely it is to be delayed.
Tip # 2: Give yourself a buffer day
If you need to have a Christmas party on December 22nd, it’s best to fly to your destination on December 20th. That’s doubly true if you’re going to be traveling through busy airports and flying out popular flight routes.
Tip # 3: Purchase seat selection
The holidays are a stressful time for air travel. Purchasing a seat protects you from getting a dread middle-row seat. It also prevents you from getting bumped, as airlines are more likely to bump a passenger who hasn’t paid for seat selection.
Tip # 4: Don’t wrap your gifts
It doesn’t matter if you’re checking your bag or bringing a carry-on, wrapped gifts are more likely to flag security agents. At best, a security guard rifles through your bag. At worst, it delays you from getting to your gate on time.
Tip # 5: Book transportation ahead of time
If you’re ordering a car at the airport, be prepared to pay exorbitant prices. Scheduling ahead prevents you from paying for surge pricing during busy times.
Tip # 6: If you’re traveling for the holidays, pre-plan the festivities
Lastly, if you’re heading to a destination for the holidays instead of home, then plan ahead in terms of decorations and meals.
First, ask the hotel concierge to help out with some decorations for your room. Most hotels will help you cobble together some kind of setup because they’re used to hosting families.
Second, call ahead at nearby restaurants to book a classic holiday meal for the big day. Don’t chance it with any last-minute orders.