Memorial Day: Tips for a Safe and Fun Weekend

Americans have been looking forward to this weekend and it is finally here! Memorial Day is a federal holiday created to remember the soldiers who died while serving in the U.S.’ armed forces. This three-day weekend is also considered by most as the unofficial start of the summer season which include trips to the beach, water sports, camping and family barbecues.

According to AAA, this year’s travels will hit record levels since 2005 with more than 39 million Americans traveling, many of which will be driving at least 50 miles. In other terms, traffic is about to get really jammed! Airports are also expected to be very busy as 3 million people are scheduled to travel by air this weekend.

Read out tips to travel to your destination safely and ensure a fun and worry-free weekend!
 
iStock-664584858.jpg

ROAD TRAVEL TIPS:
  • Travel during off-peak hours: According to Inrix, a traffic analytics company, Friday from 1:00pm to 7:00pm and Monday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm will be the busiest hours. Travelers are encouraged to leave either early or late.
  • Prepare your itinerary ahead and plan your stops along the way: Not only this can save you some driving time but you could also find some great gems along the way. We found this TripMaker tool (http://tripmaker.randmcnally.com/) which allows you to enter your itinerary and look for rest areas, things to see, food & drink ideas and small towns along your way!
  • Bring snacks and drinks: Don’t forget healthy snacks and water for everyone in the family.
  • Plan in-car activities for kids: some road-trips can be long. For those traveling with kids, it is always a good idea to plan for activities and games to keep the kids happy and entertained. Check out this blog for fun and inexpensive ideas.
  • Stop regularly: Remember to stop at least every two hours for at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow your body plenty of time to stretch and breath. If you feel tired, make sure you stop more often and take a longer break to allow for a nap prior to taking the roads again. If possible, let someone else drive for a while.
 
iStock-621897198.jpg

AIR TRAVEL TIPS:
  • Allow extra time: Make sure you arrive early at the airports as lines will certainly be long
  • Prep for airport security: a few prep steps such as having your paperwork ready and placing your electronics somewhere that is easy to reach, will help you go through airport security faster and will hopefully accelerate the waiting lines. Click here for some TSA tips for faster screening. 
  • Check-in at home: Most airlines allow you to check-in and print or download your boarding passes on your phone. This will help avoid check-in lines and go straight to the luggage drop-off area.
  • Be ready to fill-out forms: if traveling internationally, expect to fill out some type of immigration and custom forms. Make sure you have a pen with you and the address of your destination on hand.
We hope you arrive at destination safely and enjoy the weekend with family and friends. Remember, Global Travel Plus is here to assist you in case of a medical issue or an emergency occurring 100 miles away from home. Check our website to enroll or call +1 (609) 986-1213.

 
Posted: 5/26/2017 1:12:33 PM