Taking the Kids: De-stressing holiday travel

Eileen Ogintz, Tribune Content Agency on Dec 14, 2023

There is less chance of cancellations. It’s also smart to book refundable flights and hotels. They may cost more but you’ll experience fewer hassles in case of delays.

Whatever happens, don’t yell at the gate agents and flight attendants. They are doing their best. Another tip: While you are waiting in that long line to rebook, reach out to the airline on social media. You may well get a faster response.

It goes without saying if the weather is terrible, consider delaying your trip, AAA suggests. Airlines typically will allow you to change flights without charge. Avoid driving when you are tired and slow down when the weather is bad — allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front, AAA says. When possible, park facing east the night before. This will allow the sun to start melting the snow or ice first thing in the morning. Removing snow and ice from your vehicle is important. Driving with snow cascading from your car’s roof can limit visibility for others on the road, putting them in danger. It is even a traffic violation in some states.

Do you know what black ice is? Black ice forms when liquid on an otherwise clear roadway freezes as temperatures drop. Pavement covered in black ice may be a little darker and duller than the rest of the road surface. Be extra careful, especially on shaded areas, bridges and overpasses that freeze first and melt last, AAA says.

Wishing you less stress-free holiday travels.

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(For more Taking the Kids, visit www.takingthekids.com and also follow TakingTheKids on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments. The fourth edition of The Kid’s Guide to New York City and the third edition of The Kid’s Guide to Washington D.C. are the latest in a series of 14 books for kid travelers published by Eileen.)