 "Photo: MCT Campus")
Every year, business management sophomore Kathryn Kitts packs her bags, loads them in her roommate's car and checks one last time that she updated her iPod playlist in preparation for the long trek home to a Philadelphia suburb.
But before students look forward to family and taking a weekend off, there are a few things to remember to make the trip stress-free during the busiest travel time of the year.
According to Expedia, on its Press Room Expedia Travel Trendwatch, the most congested time for travels, by either air or road, is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday or Monday after.
"Whenever I travel on the Sunday (after Thanksgiving) coming back from Philadelphia, I always allow for an extra two hours," Kitts said. "San Diego never tends to be too bad, but coming back from major airports like Philadelphia, the waits can be up to two and a half hours."
The best way to fight the rush of holiday travelers is by scheduling flights around these days. Because most students have school obligations and extracurricular activities, this might not be a viable option. However, travelers who are fortunate enough to head home by a car can avoid heavy traffic periods by heading out of town during non-peak hours. A great way to make it home in normal time is by carpooling with friends and switching drivers.
If flying is the only option, remembering the basics for air travel is a necessity. An increased volume of travelers begins as early as Nov. 17. With heavier traffic throughout the holiday period, don't expect to show up curbside a half hour before your flight and stroll up to the gate.
"As with any time of the year, we suggest the travelers show up two hours before their scheduled flight, three hours if it is international, but it is stressed more during these busy travel times, just because of more people traveling," said Sharie Shipley, spokesperson for the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority.
Even with online check-in services featured on airlines such as Southwest, a huge time consumer is security. The wait for security can be more than an hour. To make this easier on travelers, the Transportation Security Administration established the 3-1-1 Rule: 3 ounce (or smaller) containers of liquid or gel are permitted in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag, limited to 1 bag per passenger. Along with remembering to take out laptops from their cases and taking off shoes, it will be much easier to fly right through security.
Along with these tips for all airports nationwide, San Diego International Airport is offering additional help for the holiday season with its Green Coats Program. Staff members in trademark green blazers will be helping with any questions or information, along with any other problems that may come up for travelers.
During this travel season, make sure to keep the basic travel etiquette in mind. Show up well before your flight and follow the security protocol. This will make it easier for you and fellow passengers.
"It's really not that bad as they play it out to be on the travel sites," Kitts said. "Knowing what to expect is half the battle, and then it's just a matter of getting excited to be home."
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