Things to do | Holiday Travel

Peak travel season is approaching, which is a reason to celebrate. The holidays are a wonderful time when families and friends come together to make new memories and strengthen important bonds. As the most frequently traveled holidays approach this fall, start planning now to make your travels smoother.

1. Book Tickets Early

It’s no secret that airlines raise their prices around the holidays. Near or far, book as early as possible for the best fares and to guarantee availability.

2. Prepare a Survival Kit

It’s best to be prepared while traveling! Start thinking ahead of time what items you may need in a traveling emergency, such as band-aids, ear plugs and hand sanitizer. If you’re traveling with little ones, pack a bag of toys and goodies to keep your kids happy and occupied throughout the trip.

3. Schedule Your Kennel or House Sitter

Once you’ve decided on travel dates, contact your pet kennel and house sitter immediately to guarantee availability. Instead of scrambling for a solution before you leave, give yourself peace of mind by making these calls well in advance. Did you know that Best Western Hotels & Resorts has more than 1,600 pet-friendly locations in North America alone? Staying with Best Western makes it easy to bring the entire family.

4. Alert the Bank

If you plan on traveling somewhere new, call your bank and credit card company ahead of time and inform them of your plans. Financial companies track spending patterns and may stop purchases if they seem abnormal.

5. Book Your Hotel Room

Many families forget they can book a hotel room during the holidays instead of sleeping on grandma’s couch. Make your next holiday trip easier by reserving a hotel room with Best Western Hotels & Resorts. Having a hotel room will give your family more space and the modern amenities will make your holiday trip feel more like a vacation.

6. Build Your Itinerary

Plan out the major moments in your trip. Research transportation and think through any time you might need to get from one place to the next. Help prevent confusion in the future by taking a little time to prepare.

7. Check Your Documents

Before you head out, check the dates on your passport and driver’s license. It’s easy to get caught up in the pre-holiday excitement and not know that your documents have expired. Organize all travel paperwork—boarding passes, hotel confirmations, etc.—in a folder placed near your suitcase. Keeping yourself organized will save you time and headaches!

8. Plan for Work Coverage

Clients, co-workers or friends may try to get in touch with you during the holiday. Prepare for this by creating automated email responses and changing your voicemail to inform callers of the date you return to work or other methods for reaching you during the holiday.

Finally, sign up with Best Western Rewards. Registration is free and members start earning points on their first night. Points can be redeemed for discounts and free nights all over the world at any Best Western Hotels & Resorts location. Make the most out of your trip by rewarding yourself while you travel!