A strategy to help reduce stress when flying.

Reduce stress when flying, especially during the holidays, by planning ahead. Here are a few tips that can help:

Earlier flights are less likely to be delayed. Later flights are more likely to be affected by the “ripple” effect of delays elsewhere. Also by flying earlier, should your flight be canceled you have a better opportunity of getting on another flight.

If at all possible, fly non-stop. Statistics show that non-stop flights are less likely to be delayed.

Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, and if need be, find parking, not to mention getting through security. Holiday traffic and unforeseen delays like accidents and road construction can, at the very least, increase your stress level, at worst result in missing your flight.

Try to keep your carry-on to one bag, but pack it for an overnighter in the event of a canceled flight: pajamas, underwear, toiletries (3 ozs. or less in a clear 1 quart size ziplock bag), and medications. A few snacks are also a good idea.

Sources: U.S. Department of Transportation
“On the Road with Joe Brancatelli”