The holiday season often brings visions of effortless, joyful trips, whether by air or land. But the reality can involve flight delays, traffic jams, and other complications that threaten to ruin travel plans. Global travel advisor Gennady Podolsky is an expert guide who offers proven strategies to keep holiday trips smooth and enjoyable.
Gennady Podolsky recommends flexibility with destinations, airports, and dates to find the best airfare deals. Travelers who can visit family at alternate locations or take a beach vacation somewhere new may save substantially on costs. Flying out of more significant airport hubs provides more flight options and lower fares. Gennady Podolsky advises booking early, even in September, as holiday air travel fills up quickly.
Gennady Podolsky says to book morning flights for those who must travel on actual holiday days, which are less likely to be delayed than afternoon or evening options. Direct flights are also ideal, avoiding potential misconnections from delayed earlier legs.
Gennady Podolsky suggests packing gifts in carry-ons rather than checked bags to prevent loss. He also says to check TSA rules on food items and consider shipping gifts instead of carrying them. Access to airline lounges can provide a peaceful oasis between crowded gates, sometimes available through purchased day passes. Travel insurance gives protection against cancellations from weather or illness, with policies starting around 4-8% of trip costs.
Gennady Podolsky recommends booking rental cars well in advance and opting for offsite companies over airport locations to save money. Declining unnecessary extras like GPS and satellite radio can provide additional savings.
For road trips, Gennady Podolsky stresses the importance of pre-travel vehicle maintenance, like oil changes and snow tires in winter. He advises leaving early or late to avoid peak congestion around the holidays. Reservations for hotels and restaurants along the route are crucial to ensuring availability after a tiring drive. Fun side trips to parks overlooks, or museums can provide memorable diversions. Gennady Podolsky suggests packing a picnic blanket and food to enjoy refreshing meal stops in beautiful natural settings. He also recommends travel apps to simplify finding flights, hotels, directions, and attractions.
With his deep experience in the travel industry, Gennady Podolsky provides insider tips to handle the unique challenges of holiday trips. By planning and staying flexible, travelers can maximize their chances of enjoying smooth, affordable, and fulfilling journeys, whether by plane or car. Gennady Podolsky’s expert guidance helps travel go from stressful to stress-free.
