10 December Travel Tips

If you are planning on traveling during the holidays, then here are 10 December travel tips. December travel can be hectic between the crowded airports and inclement weather. Here are ten December travel tips to keep you safe:

1. It is better to carry credit cards than cash. Credit cards are portable and secure. Many offer good exchange rates, although, watch out for high currency conversion fees. Credit cards offer protection from theft and fraud, and some protect purchases from accidental damage. If you intend to travel overseas, be sure to notify your credit card company in advance. Also, have your credit card number and the customer service phone numbers stored somewhere safe.
2. Know what to expect from the local weather of your intended destination. Be sure to pack accordingly. After all, the climate of Southern California in December is considerably different from that of Colorado. Keeping abreast of the weather will also allow you to anticipate any potential weather created delays along your travel route.
3. Don't become a victim of crime. Research the crime rates and types of crime to watch out for when you arrive at your travel destination. Don't act or dress in a manner that draws undue attention or clearly marks you as a tourist. Do not carry a lot of cash or wear flashy jewelry. Don't ever leave your luggage or belongings unattended. Remember, crime rates are always higher during the holidays. Keep your December holiday safe.
4. If flying, then bring a carryon with a change of clothes and some basic toiletries. If your flight were to become grounded or canceled during a layover, then it is likely that you won't be able to recover your checked baggage. Having some basic supplies with you will get you through a night in a hotel much more comfortably.
5. If you're traveling with children, then pack plenty of snacks and distractions. Airlines are increasingly charging for even the most basic of snacks. Some of the worst have eliminated amenities. Crackers, nuts, fruit snacks, cookies--all make for convenient and portable snacks. Crayons and coloring books, small puzzles, books and handheld game systems are all great forms of portable entertainment.
6. Know how your cell phone plan works. If you travel outside of your coverage area or outside of the country, then it is an opportunity for your cell phone company to charge you an arm and a leg. Especially beware of downloading internet content, because the cost can be astronomical. Contact your cell phone company in advance and purchase a plan that will allow you to travel without losing your shirt. December travel is pricey enough without this surprise expense!
7. Verify with your auto insurance company that your policy will cover a rental vehicle. If your auto insurance policy will protect a rental vehicle, then it is unnecessary to purchase the expensive insurance that the rental company offers. However, if you are declining the supplemental insurance, be sure that a thorough inspection of the vehicle is performed both when you pick it up and drop it off. Also, be sure that no one other than the listed driver(s) on the rental contract operates the rental car. When renting a vehicle, pay for it with your credit card.
8. If traveling overseas, then have the information for the U.S. Consulates and the U.S. Embassy. It is important to have both the addresses and phone numbers for these U.S. agencies in case you require assistance while traveling abroad. If you were to lose your passport, this is where you would go to obtain a replacement.
9. Keep a copy of your travel itinerary someplace where it is easily accessible and will not become lost or stolen. Leave your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Emailing your itinerary to yourself is an excellent way to create an electronic document. Likewise, it is a good idea to have a photocopy or scan of your identification.
10. Never pack your identification in luggage that will be checked. Always carry your picture ID, especially passports and driver's licenses, on your person. Take copies of your documentation and keep it separate from the originals. Keep your children's original documents with your own and copies with your copies.