Holiday Travel Tips for Filipinos🎄✈️
Are you beginning to hear Christmas carols? Are you curating Jose Mari Chan Christmas songs on your Spotify song list? The Christmas season is the Filipinos’ favorite time of the year. With balikbayan visits being planned out, class reunions being booked, office and family party plans on the way, there is every reason why “Pasko” is much anticipated.
While the Christmas season is a time when people fly-in, it’s also a time we plan our trips abroad. Be it to visit family or to spend time with friends, our airports are busiest during the Christmas season. Plan well to make your Christmas trip fun and enjoyable and be sure to cover your trip with travel insurance for a worry-free good time.
Here are some essential tips to make your holiday travel smooth and enjoyable.
1. Plan and Book Early
We already know that flights, buses, and accommodations quickly fill up. To avoid the hassle and higher prices, book your tickets and hotel rooms way in advance. It really pays. If you’re flying within the region, take advantage of seat sales from airlines like Cebu Pacific or AirAsia. For trips across the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, look for travel sales. There are lots of tempting offers you can get if you book early enough.
2. Prepare for the Holiday Rush
Expect crowds and traffic, especially in Metro Manila. If you need to be brought to the airport and picked up on your return, book your ride a month ahead. If that means a family member doing the task, let them know in advance. Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight (more if you are taking Cebu Pacific because of their long queues). If you’re traveling by bus, it’s wise to arrive at the terminal early to secure a good spot.
3. Pack Smart
Pack light, but make sure to bring essentials like your travel documents, a power bank, a water bottle you can refill during your trip and some snacks. Remember that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check how the weather is like wherever you are going. If you’re bringing gifts, consider wrapping them after you have arrived to avoid damage during transit.
4. Stay Connected
Staying connected is important, especially if you’re traveling alone or to a new place. Make sure your phone is fully charged and consider getting a portable Wi-Fi device if you’re going to a remote area. You can also download offline maps or travel apps like Waze to help you navigate. Check out Google translate if you do not know how to speak the language where you are going.
5. Secure Your Valuables
Invest in anti-theft bags and pouches. Remember, pickpockets and scammers are more active during the holiday season. Keep your belongings secure and avoid exposing your expensive gadgets or large amounts of cash.
6. Get the Right Travel Insurance
I should have listed this as a 2nd priority item. Afterall, a travel insurance coverage makes sure that when anything goes wrong, your trip plan is shielded from the impact. Events like flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or even accidents can occur. Look for travel insurance that covers flight cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. For young travelers, affordable options include Standard Insurance Travel Protect, available in GCash. This package offers comprehensive coverage at reasonable prices, ensuring you’re protected throughout your trip.
7. Respect Local Traditions and Customs
Wherever you are going, there are holiday traditions and practices being observed. You should be respectful of the customs and traditions of others. Join in the festivities and be open to enjoy whatever your host does. This will enrich your travel experience and help you connect with the local community.
9. Enjoy the Experience
Lastly, don’t stress too much! The season is all about joy, giving, and spending time with loved ones. Whether you’re heading to a new destination or visiting family, embrace the experience, take lots of photos, and make lasting memories.
Traveling during the Christmas holidays can be hectic, but with the right preparation, advance planning and the right travel insurance protection, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Safe travels!