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Best Holiday Travel Tips

Holiday time is travel time. By car, bus, train and plane, things tend to get very busy when holidays roll around, especially when the holiday spans a weekend and turns two days into four or five. Getting ready to head out and enjoy the time off takes a bit of planning. In an area as rich in travel possibilities as Sacramento, figuring out how to get to your holiday destination is relatively simple. You just have to determine which mode of transportation you'll use to get there. Plan ahead and spend your time enjoying the trip. You deserve it.

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Amtrak Sacramento
401 I St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(800) 872-7245
www.amtrak.com

If you have the time, the choo choo is a memorable way to travel. All you have to do it sit there and enjoy the passing scenery, which is likely to be something that you will only be able to see from a train. Whether you are headed for Truckee, Seattle, LA or New York City, Amtrak will get you there in comfort and style. No traffic to deal with is a plus. Along the way, you will be treated to a completely fantastic travel memory. The seats are comfy, there's plenty of room and no matter where you go, you'll be riding history. Enjoy a meal, snack or a nap. Keep your camera handy and settle in for a gently moving experience. The Sacramento train station is located downtown. Purchase tickets online and look for the various discounts that are always available.

Sacramento International Airport
6900 Airport Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95837
(916) 929-5411
www.sacramento.aero/smf

Are you flying out of Sacramento International Airport for your holidays? Take public transportation or have a friend drop you off. Parking fees can run as high as $31 per day. Long term, a week or more typically, is $10 per day. Plan your flight for early morning or late evening to avoid the mid-day crowds and pack lightly. If it doesn't fit in your carry-on bag, maybe you don't need it. Fees for checking baggage these days can be pretty pricey. Book your flights in advance to get the best rates. Look for a new experience at the Sac airport. It's been extensively rebuilt, remodeled and renovated.Related: Sacramento International Airport Guide

(credit: AP)

Sacramento Greyhound Station
420 Richards Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95811
(916) 444-6858
www.greyhound.com

Ride the Dog by choosing Greyhound. Taking the bus, if you have the time, is a fairly inexpensive way to travel. Today's buses are well appointed, comfortable and have a great on-time record. The Sacramento Greyhound station is new and in a much better location with extensive schedules. Riding the Dog is another stress-free way to get to your holiday destination. Sit high above the road, comfortably tucked into your seat, with the scenery rolling by. Most bus stations are located in the inner city. Book your hotel within close distance of the station, save a bundle on the trip and spend your time exploring the wonders of your holiday destination.

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QUINCY, CALIFORNIA, USA - JULY 25: Flames rise along both sides of Highway 70 and the Feather River Canyon as the main Dixie Fire and a spot fire that was also several thousand acres joined back together in Quincy, California on July 25, 2021. (Photo by Neal Waters/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

SuperShuttle Sacramento
830 National Drive, Suite 140
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 648-2500 ext. 11306
www.supershuttle.com

Getting to the airport, train station or bus station can be the most involved and difficult part of your holiday plans. Parking at all of these places is somewhat expensive on a multi-day basis so leave the car at home. One obvious way to get around is to have a friend drop you off and then pick you up when you return. Another very easy way is to take a shuttle or taxi to and from the station or airport. It beats the cost of driving, parking and hoping your car is safe while you're away. The convenience is worth the cost. The shuttles are licensed, insured, clean and operate around the clock. SuperShuttle, Sacramento Airport Shuttle and Dave's Airport Shuttle and Taxi are just a few options.

Sacramento Driving Apps
Apple: www.itunes.apple.com
Android: www.play.google.com

Taking the family car has its advantages. You can go where you want, when you want and stay for however long you want. The only schedule involved is the one you make. There are places your car can take you that the other means of travel can't. It's a bit difficult to take the train or plane to the campground in the woods. These days, fuel is the main cost and it can add up quickly. Finding the best place to buy gas and book rooms is generally an internet experience. Read the fine print prior to booking rooms over the internet as you want to be certain that you are getting what you want. Here are some apps for Apple and Android that can help you find the best gas prices in the area.

Related: Getaway Guide: Weekend trip to Lake Tahoe

Charles Ferris is a freelance writer who has lived in the Sierra, halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, for the last 37 years. He retired from teaching after 36 years in 2010. He and his wife hike, kayak, cross country ski, snow shoe, ride mountain bikes and road bikes, year round. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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