Avoid Traffic Woes this Holiday Season: 13 Tips for Easier Travel
The holiday season is a magical time of year—unless you’re stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic while your car radio insists on playing that one holiday jingle on repeat. (You know the one.) But fear not! With a little planning and a sprinkle of commuter savvy, you can dodge the gridlock and keep the holiday stress to a minimum.
Here are 14 tips to help you sail smoothly through the season:
1. Plan Your Travel in Advance
Procrastination is the enemy of smooth travel. Check out the best times to hit the road (hint: avoid peak hours) and map out your route ahead of time. Apps like Waze or Google Maps can help you steer clear of accidents and construction delays.
2. Explore Rideshare Matching Programs
Why drive solo when you can carpool with others headed in the same direction? Rideshare matching services pair you with fellow travelers to share the ride, like the services we provide at goCommute. You’ll save on gas, reduce emissions, and maybe even make a new holiday buddy.
3. Embrace Public Transit
Public transit isn’t just for your daily commute. And in Hampton Roads, you can opt for a bus, a train, or the ferry for stress-free travel. Plus, you can use the time to read, catch up on your favorite podcasts, or simply enjoy not being behind the wheel.
4. Use goCommute for Commuter Solutions
If you’re unsure about your travel options, goCommute’s website has all the tools you need to find commuter solutions in Hampton Roads. From rideshare matching to public transit information, they’re your one-stop shop for making smarter travel choices.
5. Carpool to Holiday Parties
Got a work party or a friend’s holiday gathering on your calendar? Coordinate with coworkers or friends to carpool there. Not only will you cut down on traffic, but you’ll also avoid the hassle of finding parking—which, let’s face it, is a holiday nightmare on its own.
6. Adjust Your Work Schedule
If your employer allows flexible hours, consider starting earlier or later during the holiday season to avoid the usual rush hours. A little tweak to your schedule can save you a lot of time on the road.
7. Try Active Transportation
If your holiday errands or gatherings are nearby, why not bike or walk? Active transportation is a great way to skip the traffic entirely, get some fresh air, and maybe burn off a gingerbread cookie or two.
8. Be Smart About Parking
If driving is unavoidable, scout out parking options in advance. Many cities offer apps to reserve and pay for parking ahead of time, saving you the headache of circling the block endlessly.
9. Spread Out Holiday Shopping Trips
Instead of cramming all your shopping into one day, try spreading it out over several trips. This way, you’ll avoid peak times and reduce the chance of road rage when someone snags the last parking spot.
10. Opt for Sustainable Transportation
Choosing options like ridesharing, carpooling, or public transit doesn’t just help you—it helps the environment too. Fewer cars on the road mean less traffic and improved air quality, so everyone can breathe a little easier this holiday season.
11. Stay Flexible
Sometimes the best-laid plans hit a speed bump. Keep a Plan B in mind, whether it’s an alternate route, a backup mode of transportation, or simply leaving earlier to account for delays.
12. Make It a Group Effort
Encourage family and friends to adopt smarter travel habits too. The more people who carpool, rideshare, or take public transit, the less traffic we all have to deal with. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
13. Bring Your Holiday Spirit
Travel can be stressful, but a cheerful attitude goes a long way. Whether you’re stuck on a bus or sharing a carpool, a little kindness and patience can make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.
Happy Holidays and Smooth Travels!
By incorporating a few of these tips into your holiday plans, you’ll not only save time and money but also contribute to reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. Whether it’s through rideshare matching, commuter solutions, or public transit, there are plenty of ways to make your holiday travel merry and bright.
So go ahead, sip your eggnog and relax—you’ve got this!