Thanksgiving Travel & Safety Tips

As you prepare to hit the road (or sky) for the holidays, here at Schaefer Autobody Centers we will be hosting our annual Thanksgiving Dinner for employees a few days before “Turkey Day.” The event has become an annual tradition that is looked forward to by all our locations. Afterward, like many of you, our staff will head off to visit their loved ones. We wanted to share some Thanksgiving Travel & Safety Tips with you!

Not surprisingly, Thanksgiving is the busiest holiday for travel. In fact, it’s estimated more than 112 million Americans will travel for Thanksgiving this year. When making your upcoming travel plans you will likely be deciding between driving or flying. Your decision-making may start with comparing fuel prices and fuel economy of your vehicle to flight costs. Then of course if you fly, factoring in transportation costs at your destination. No matter your method, plan ahead!

Thanksgiving Travel Tips for your road trip, be sure you have the latest technology:

• Google Maps App – This will display real time traffic, re-route you around any issues including; traffic, construction and even speed traps. You also have the ability to share news with other drivers through the app. Download Google Maps from Google Play, here or from Apple, here.
• Fuel Apps – These apps will show you where you can get the cheapest fuel and/or earn rewards points based on your purchases. Check out Upside, GasBuddy and Gas Guru. Click the site names to link to them for Upside and GasBuddy. Gas Guru is available from Google Play, here or from Apple, here.
• Entertainment Apps – Make sure you have a good podcast or audio book to help pass the time! Spotify is free and has music and podcasts. If you don’t have a subscription to Audible, they have great trial offers perfect to redeem for a road trip!
• Take a tablet or computer and download entertainment for your passengers in advance. Many apps have options that can be viewed even when your device is not connected to the internet, just be sure to download them in advance while you are still connected to the internet. Don’t forget the headphones and make sure everything is fully charged first!
• Pack charging cords for all devices and keep a portable charger on hand. We highly recommend this portable charger with over 70k reviews on Amazon, plus an additional 20% off!

Thanksgiving Travel Tips for your flight:

• Select the first flight out, this minimizes chances of a delay or cancellation, over the summer of 2022, 61% of travelers had a flight delay or cancellation, be prepared for a change in plans and add a buffer day at the start and end of your trip.
• Don’t forget to check all the extra fees before completing your purchase, one option may appear cheaper to later find out with baggage and other fees the price exceeded its competitors.
• Travel light, if possible, only take a carryon. In the summer of 2022 nearly 50% of travelers reported their luggage delayed or lost entirely.  
• Make sure to keep room for souvenirs or gifts coming back, a collapsible empty bag that meets carry on or personal item requirements is ideal.
• Take a tablet or computer and download entertainment in advance. Many apps have options that can be viewed even when your device is not connected to the internet, just be sure to download them in advance. Don’t forget the headphones and make sure everything is fully charged first!
• Pack charging cords for all devices and keep a portable charger on hand. This portable charger is great with over 70k reviews on Amazon, plus an additional 20% off!

Here are some things from TSA you may find helpful:

• You can travel with food, your trip through security will be quicker if you plan ahead and the food in your carry on is in a clear plastic bag and removed for viewing at the checkpoint.
• Don’t wrap gifts. Regardless of carry on or checked baggage there is always a chance for inspection and your gifts will be unwrapped for the inspection. Pack giftbags and tissue to assemble at your destination.
• The TSA App or website can answer any questions you may have.

Never forget the snacks!

The sky is the limit when you drive, but quick and easy items to eat while driving and riding are a bonus. You can also pack your favorites and pull off for a meal. When flying, your food options are bit more limited. If you are able to bring your own snacks, be sure to check the TSA site for the best method to pack them. Bring food items from home and save money on those marked up items at the airports.

Staying home? Stay Safe with these Thanksgiving Safety Tips:

Thanksgiving cooking is responsible for the most home cooking fires than any other day of the year.

• Always have someone watching the cooking food, take turns if needed to ensure nothing is left unattended for any period of time.
• Be sure to clear the cooking areas of any hazards such as towels, napkins, utensils, food boxes/containers.
• Avoid loose or hanging apron strings or clothing that could be caught in a flame.
• If frying food, immediately remove from the burner if you see smoke or boiling grease. Keep a cookie sheet nearby to top a pot with an issue.
• Keep all handles to the back of the stove so they are not easily bumped or moved.
• Be sure children and animals stay out of the cooking areas.

All of us at Schaefer Autobody Centers wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels as you depart to visit family. Most of all, plan your travels in advance and take your time!