Thinking of getting away for the holidays? What a good idea! It’s the perfect time to take your festive traditions to the tropics or catch up with loved ones back home. Whether it’s strolling through the Christmas markets of Alsace, joining a pub choir in England or discovering Mexican traditions, the holiday season is undoubtedly a time for celebration in all Transat destinations!
But in many parts of the world, it’s also a time when airports and airlines are at their most intense, with some of the busiest days of the year, welcoming large numbers of travellers and luggage. As a result, everything takes a little bit longer and is a little more complicated. But don’t worry! Having been lucky enough to fly during the holiday season for a few years now, I’m well informed enough to give you some of my best holiday travel tips, both for your arrival at the airport and your in-flight experience, to make sure your trip lives up to your expectations.
And that you arrive at your destination with stars in your eyes!
Download the Air Transat app: the ultimate tips for flying during the holidays!
For a smooth holiday trip, download the Air Transat app and have all your travel documents at your fingertips. Whether it’s a connecting or non-stop flight, the app is a great way to manage your trip during busy holiday periods.
Complete your online check-in 24 hours before your flight – especially important when airports are packed during the holidays. It’s also vital if you’ve booked a ticket without pre-selected seats. The app also allows you to track your flight, check immigration requirements and add in-flight services. Once you arrive at your destination, the app will keep you in touch with your Transat representative throughout your stay.
Packing your luggage according to regulations
The key tip for traveling during the holidays? Preparation! Holiday travel often brings up the question of how to pack your luggage. Not sure what items go in your carry-on or your checked baggage? The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) has a helpful guide to help travellers pack in accordance with Canadian security standards.
Remember to keep your medication and electronic devices in your carry-on for easy access.
Generally speaking, with flights often full during the holiday season, packing light is the best way to avoid complications. Stick to the airline’s baggage allowance to avoid extra charges or last-minute problems with checked baggage. Overpacking can cause delays—and nobody wants that!
Think about pre-ordering
To make sure you get the dish of your choice, whether because of preference or dietary restrictions, it’s a good idea to contact us to pre-order Bistro menu. You can do this up to 72 hours before departure, for flights of three hours or more to the South and the United States in Economy class.
What’s more, you’ll save around 20% on the price of the same dishes on board.
Organizing your carry-on bag for security screening
To speed through security, organise your carry-on baggage efficiently. Again, overhead bin space is precious when planes are full, and if you don’t follow the rules to the letter, you may end up having to check your bags at the gate, causing additional delays. Here are some pro tips for traveling during the holidays:
- Remove jackets, scarves, belts and boots before going through the screening machines.
- Remove laptops from bags and place them in a separate bin.
- Group liquids and gels (max 100ml each) in a clear 1L bag. Place it on top of your cabin bag for easy access.
Are you travelling with a baby or very young kids? Or do you need to take liquid medicines with you when you travel? There are specific exemptions for this.
When traveling with presents in your carry-on luggage, ensure they comply with security regulations. Certain gifts must be placed in checked baggage, and it’s advisable to leave them unwrapped, as security might need to inspect them.
Asking for help
At the airport or on board, airline staff are ready to help. Depending on your departure airport and holiday destination, a range of services are available to meet your needs.
For example, if you’re flying from Montréal-Trudeau, you can book YUL Express to breeze through security. This free, fast service is perfect for avoiding the lines at busy airports. You can also reserve a parking space in advance at airports such as Montreal and Quebec City.
Whether you need mobility assistance, help with family travel or assistance with your reservations, airline staff will do their best to help. Note, however, that some requests should be made at least 72 hours before your flight.
Arriving at the airport early to beat the holiday season travel frenzy
Overcrowded airports are a reality of the holiday season, with everything from parking to security slowed down by the sheer number of travellers leaving the country. The last thing you want is to feel rushed, so arriving early is your best chance to minimise stress. Here are a few tips for traveling during the holidays:
- Check your flight status for potential delays.
- Check road conditions to estimate your travel time to the airport. Anything from bad weather to traffic could affect your schedule and force an alternate route.
- Allow extra time to find parking and take the shuttle to the terminal.
- As a general rule, arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure. This will give you plenty of time to check in, get through the long lines at security checkpoint and find your way to your gate.
Allowing yourself extra time will help ensure you have a stress-free journey and get your next holiday off to the right start.
Stock up on courtesy and patience
When terminals are busy and everyone is feeling the pressure, a little patience and kindness can make a big difference. Staff are doing their best to help, and fellow passengers are just as anxious to get where they’re going. Staying calm and being courteous to those around you will help create a smoother experience for everyone and ensure that the holiday spirit starts from the moment you enter the airport. A small gesture of kindness goes a long way to making the journey more enjoyable for everyone.
After all, what are the holidays if not about kindness?
