Trying to decide if you should travel by plane or car this summer? We have a list of pros and cons for you to help you decide. In light of everything that is going on with the Corona Virus – plane or car has become a common question.
Pixabay
Pros and Cons Travel – By Plane or Car:
Pros of Traveling by Plane
Time Efficient – Flying is typically the fastest way to get many places, even short distances. If you live near a smaller airport especially, security moves along quickly, so this is your best bet if you are limited on time. This may not be the case anymore with new guidelines as a result of Covid. Be sure to double check with the airlines and see if there are any additional check points.
Productive – While flying, you can work, read, sleep and do a number of other things that you would not be able to do while driving. Even in airports, you can be productive while waiting for your next connection.
Cost-Effective – Given the less time spent traveling, the money spent gets you to your destination faster and allows you to use more of your vacation time seeing the things you want to see and experiencing new things. This can also be considered a con since the cost of flying can be very pricey depending on when you want to go.
Cons of Traveling by Plane
Expense – Traveling by plane to close locations is often more expensive than driving. When you travel also has an effect on the cost of the airfare – so be sure to keep that in mind, as well.
Delays – If you are flying, there are of course delays and cancellations. These can leave you stuck for hours, and sometimes even days, especially in areas where there is inclement weather. With all of the airlines taking extra precautions this may cause additional delays.
Limited Carry-On Items – Planes limit you on what you can take with you, both as a carry-on and checked bags. You can choose to check more luggage, but it will cost you.
Travel by Car
Pros of Traveling by Car:
Cost – Typically speaking traveling by car is the cheapest way to travel, especially if you have a vehicle that is relatively decent on gas. Trips that are within the 5-6 hour range are usually much less expensive when taken by car. These savings in relation to flying or train are compounded when you consider groups with 3 or more individuals.
Space – When you take your car on a trip, you can bring many things with you that you might not be able to if traveling by air or rail. Space is still limited, but nearly as much, especially if you rent GoGo Charters (mini bus or coach rentals.)
Kids – No need to worry about kids bothering any other passengers like when you are on a plane or train. You can also travel at your own leisure; many parents travel during the night when their children are asleep to make the experience easier on everyone.
Pets – As with kids, coordinating travel with pets can be difficult. Kids can stay with adults on planes and trains, whereas many times pets cannot. They need to be underneath the plane with luggage, and can become scared and sick. Traveling by car is easiest when a pet is taken along.
Flexibility – When traveling by car, you can change your plans as you go. If you are taking a road trip, you can pull off the road at any time and sight-see. If you own a 4Wd vehicle, you will have the opportunity to explore even more as you travel as taking on challenging terrain will not be a problem. So, if you are a more adventurous family and want to head off the beaten track during your road trip, a four-wheel-drive vehicle could be the ideal choice. If you plan to hire a 4Wd and have never driven a 4×4 before, it is a wise idea to look up some Useful 4Wd Tips so that you can familiarize yourself with what to expect and ensure you stay safe on your family adventure.
Cons of Traveling by Car:
Time – Traveling by car often takes more time than traveling by plane or train. Of course, you have to add in the time it takes to go through security and such when traveling other ways, but often driving takes many hours longer.
What are your thoughts about traveling by car or plane? Do you think taking a plane is going to be more difficult? Have you traveled at all and if so leave a comment we are curious as to what it is like to travel these days?
Leave a Reply