Trip Tips to Enjoy Holiday Travels With Ease

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Dec. 12, 2012) - While the holiday season brings an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones, it inevitably also brings clogged highways and packed airports. Whether you're travelling abroad to escape the winter weather, or taking a road trip to visit with friends and family, CAA North & East Ontario offers some helpful tips to help ensure your travels are enjoyable and stress-free.

For individuals travelling by car:

• No one likes to have plans interrupted, especially during the holiday season. Before you hit the road, have your vehicle serviced at a CAA Approved Auto Repair Service (AARS) facility to make certain it is in working order to get you to your destination.

• For safety, plan your route in advance and make sure to travel with a fully charged cell phone. Keep in mind, however, that under Ontario's distracted driving law it is illegal to talk, text, dial or type using a hand-held cell phone or other hand-held communications device while driving. If a phone call must be made, have a passenger make the call, or wait until you are able to find a safe place to get off the road.

• Take your time; many highways will be congested with car-loads of families eager to get to their holiday destination. Give yourself plenty of time for your travels and adjust your driving habits to reflect the weather conditions. When travelling for longer distances, notify someone of your intended destination and anticipated arrival time.

• Excited children can be a challenge in the car. Regular stops and seat switching will turn their attention to something new until the next stop, while also preventing driver fatigue and distraction.

• While your travels on the road are family time, remember that you will also be in tight quarters for the duration of your trip. To help keep arguments at bay, pack a range of games, toys and activities that will cater to everyone's interests.

For individuals travelling by air:

• Help save time at the airport by weighing your luggage before you leave and remember that any presents you're bringing should be left unwrapped.

• Long lines are commonplace at airports during the holiday season so be sure to arrive early for your flight. Eliminate unnecessary stress by checking in online with your airline and receiving your boarding pass in advance of departing for the airport. Remember to confirm your flight's status before leaving as well.

• Avoid unexpected fees by verifying your airline's policy for baggage, particularly if you plan on bringing skis, snowboards, or skates to enjoy winter activities during your vacation.

CAA North & East Ontario is a non-profit membership organization, providing travel, emergency road services, insurance and advocacy for its Members. Visit caaneo.ca.