Labor Day Travel Tips That Will Take You Into Fall

Labor Day is the last unofficial day of summer, and one of the busiest travel days of the year. You may be in the comfort of your home right now, or in a hotel room getting ready to start your day, but the fact is, we are all gearing up for the holiday season, either Labor Day or future seasonal celebrations.  Here are a few Labor Day travel tips to make sure you are at your best when you are on the road, or traveling in the air.

Travel During the “Shoulder Season” to Save Big

The period from September through early November is called “Shoulder Season” in the travel industry, and it describes a time of year when a particular location has fewer visitors, it’s off peak season, the weather is favorable, and costs are more reasonable than in busier times of the year.

Right now, airfare is actually lower than usual if you are willing to be flexible with your travel plans. According to AAA, gas prices are 44% lower this Labor Day and travel costs, such as hotels, are down. You still need to do your homework but if you plan now, you can find some reasonable deals.

Expect Delays

Airports are going to be busy; roads are crowded, so pack your patience. Download the airline app and make sure your phone is set to receive text alerts for quick updates to flight status and gate changes.

Buy the Travel Insurance

For a few extra dollars, you can have some security and peace of mind to know if something goes wrong, flights are delayed, or canceled, you will be covered without hurting your budget.

Reserve a Parking Spot in Advance

Austin has great parking services near, or at the airport and it’s prudent to reserve a space early so you don’t waste time trying to find a spot in short- or long-term parking at the last minute. If you book early, some parking companies offer a discount, which is often less money than a drive-up rate where you take your chances.

It’s comforting to know you have a guaranteed space, often under a covered roof, and that the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at your designated spot. This makes the process easy and painless!

Be Ready for TSA

Hopefully, you have a TSA or Clear precheck because there is definitely value in the expediency of the process. Generally, there are less people in crowded lines, and the big thing, at least for me, is that you don’t have to take off your shoes during the screening.

Whatever line you are going through, it helps to be prepared:

• Make sure you have thrown away your water bottle before you go through security.
• Have your ID and boarding pass ready when meeting the security officer, rather than deciding to start digging in your purse when you get to the check stand.
• Liquids, aerosols, and gels must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less.
• No alcohol on the plane unless it fits in a quart size, ziplock bag, and you can’t open the mini bottles in flight.
• Dress for a quick peel by layering your clothes and avoiding buckles, studs, jewels or anything that is going to sound the alarm.
• Empty your pockets and remove heavy, bulky jewelry.
• Arrive two hours early, get through security and enjoy a cup of coffee on the other side.

Bring Plenty of Small Bills

Part of the travel budget is tipping at the appropriate time. Curb service is one of the times you tip for the convenience. You will have plenty more occasions during your vacation so be ready with dollars, rather than getting caught off guard or having bills that are too large to use for tipping in a pinch.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

You may also like Preparing Your Home for Guests This Fall. See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.