Holiday Travel Tips

Holiday season is always a very busy time to travel. Some simple planning can prevent you from stressing out while you travel.

Here are Westjet Vacations' Top 10 Holiday Travel Tips:

1. Double check your flight times. Airports are very busy this time of year, so check that your flights are leaving on time. Check the airline's website (www.westjet.com) or the local airport website (www.yvr.ca).

2. All tickets are electronic now, but it's a good idea to keep a copy of your itinerary with you. Many airlines have a variety of options available for you to check in. Westjet offers four options - web checkin, mobile checkin, kiosk checkin, and traditional counter check in. Jot down your confirmation number (also known as the "locator number") when booking, then take advantages of these checkin options to make flying less stressful.

3. Get to the airport early. Arrange for your taxi to arrive a little early or if driving, allow for extra time to drive around looking for that empty parking stall (the lots will be very full).

4. Be aware of Security protocols for packed luggage - this means no wrapped gifts in carryon and ANY toys with a remote control MUST go in checked luggage or will be confiscated. You can request the bag be marked "fragile".

5. Check luggage weight restrictions & how many bags you're allowed. Clearly tag your bags with your name & contact information and ensure that there are no loose straps hanging that will get caught in the luggage conveyor belt. With Westjet, you are allowed 2 pieces of checked baggage per person (for free even!) at 50 lbs per item. Sporting equipment such as skis and snowboards are considered part of the checked baggage allowance of 2 pieces.

6. Be aware of restrictions for carry-on baggage. Westjet allows 2 pieces per person at 22lbs each. Don't forget the liquid restrictions are still in place, so containers must be no larger than 3.4 oz or 100ml/100g and these must be placed in a clear 1L resealable bag (ie. Ziplock)

7. Pets require special attention. Only leak-proof, soft-sided kennels designed to fit under the seat are accepted in the cabin. Remember that Westjet has a holiday pet embargo on for animals in checked baggage (Dec 15-Jan 6). Cats, dogs, rabbits, and birds may travel in the cabin in appropriate kennels and may NOT be allowed out of these kennels at any point during the flight.

8. Make travel fun for th kids by bringing along games & toys to keep them occupied. A long trip will pass much quicker with some entertainment. Westjet offers excellent live seatback TV, so pack single pronged headsets (iPod earbuds are compatible)

9. Stay hydrated and wear layers. Cabin air can be very dry, so buy a bottle of water once you're through Security to sip along the way. Cabin temperature will also fluctuate, so it's best to wear light layers that can easily be shed or added if needs be.

10. Share a holiday joke with the inflight crew. Westjet flight crew are always quick to share a laugh with passengers and are always looking for new material. If you have an appropriate holiday joke that makes you laugh every time, feel free to share it on board and spead festive cheer!

Happy flying!


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