Smart Tips for Your Holiday Travel

If your planning on traveling this holiday season chances are you won’t be alone. The Transportation Security Administration reports that the holiday travel season is the busiest travel time of the year. Not surprising, the cost of traveling during this time of year increases dramatically and deals are limited.

According to Travelocity, the cost of the average domestic flights between Dec. 16 and Jan. 1 is already 5% higher than last year, while international airfares are up 6%. Over New Year's Eve weekend, domestic airfares are up 6% and international airfares have jumped 12% from 2010.

While deals may be scarce, that doesn’t mean you still can’t find one. So if you’re making plans to be out of town in time for the holidays, it’s important to begin preparing for your trip now as prices are likely to climb as we approach the Christmas holiday.

One way to secure cheaper tickets is to consider flying to smaller airports outside of the larger cities.

Traveling with gifts? Lighten your load while saving money by mailing Christmas gifts directly to their recipients and avoid those annoying baggage fees. Many sites offer free shipping during the month of December. Remember to check for coupon codes before completing your purchase.

If possible, avoid the busiest travel days and opt for traveling on the actual holiday. According to CNN, Friday December 23 is one of the busiest days to fly, as well as one of the most expensive days to fly. Consider instead flying on the Wednesday before or even on December 25^th. Traveling by car? Reduce the stress of busy roads by avoiding the busiest travel days.

Be prepared. If you’ll be flying this holiday, you may very well encounter a delay or two along the way and being prepared will help reduce your stress and save you money. Load your mobile device with movies, games and e-Books and don’t forget to pack your battery charger as well as enough snacks to hold you over. Your money will go much further in a local grocery store than it will in any airport.