Are you flying to the Desert to enjoy the Holidays, or are you headed to another destination? In either case, here are a few tips to make your flights more enjoyable.
If you haven’t booked your flight yet, do it now! Flights during Christmas will be more expensive this year and even more expensive if you book after Thanksgiving.
If you want to save money on your flight, the best days to fly out are December 19th and 20th. And if you don’t mind celebrating the Holiday on a different day, you may consider traveling on Christmas. If this trip is just over the Christmas Holiday, it’s suggested that you plan to return the week before the New Year. This could save you approximately $120 on your airfare.
Earlier in the day is the best to plan to fly out. Delays are always a possibility, and if your flight is delayed, there are still opportunities for you to still catch out a flight that day.
Before booking, you will also want to check the airline’s cancellation and change policies. Some airlines have waived charges if you change or cancel your flight; however, if you book a basic economy ticket, you may be charged.
To be safe, you may consider taking out travel insurance. (This may not cover covid-related illnesses, so you’ll want to read the fine print or ask) The credit card you use may also offer ticket protection.
The Day of Your Flight
On the day of your flight, you will want to arrive at the airport two hours early if you’re flying domestically and 3 hours early if you’re going overseas. Holiday travel is stressful enough, and running late only compounds your stress.
According to The Desert Sun, “the Palm Springs International Airport was facing significant issues with its overloaded baggage handling system. Mechanical problems with the $7 million system have left it unable to handle all the bags coming in during the airport’s busiest periods, and the upcoming holiday season will likely put another strain on it. If you can get by with a personal item and carry-on, roll with it.”
If you haven’t gotten the flu or covid shot, you will want to at least two weeks before you fly. The airports will be packed, and you don’t know who has what, and you will want to protect yourself the best you can.
You’ll also want to pack your Covid vaccine card and a supply of masks just in case they are required someplace.
AND if you’re not feeling well, don’t fly. The cabin is recycled air, and you may be infecting other passengers even if it’s a cold.
Lastly, traveling can be harrowing even in the best times, and during the Holidays, it can be downright awful, but be nice and breathe. The airline staff is there to help give you a pleasant flight, and all the passengers and any cancellations or delays are out of their control. These people work hard, and a smile goes a long way – and even helps your mood.
I can’t wait for you to arrive here in the Desert! This is going to be such a great time to visit, there is SO much going on, and everything is opening. You won’t want to miss it! Give me a call and let me know when you have arrived. Also, if you or your family or friends are looking to buy or sell this year, be sure to contact me today and we can discuss how I can help you!