December 22nd 2025 | Written By Gerald R. Ford International Airport | Share

Top Tips for Winter Travel

Top Tips for Winter Travel

With the holidays behind us and the new year in full swing, what better way to beat the oncoming winter blues than with white sandy beaches? And while our teams work to clear snowy runways, we’ve collected top travel tips and tricks to help you prepare to trade in your snowsuit and snow shovel for a swimsuit and sand shovel. Looking for more travel or trip planning tips? Visit FlyFord.org/blog to see more!

Pick a Nonstop

Nothing offers efficiency quite like a nonstop route. In just a few steps, you can be ready to step off the plane at your destination and begin your adventure. Looking for destination inspiration? Gerald R. Ford International Airport has more than 35 nonstop routes, including top Florida cities like Lakeland-Orlando, Jacksonville, and West Palm Beach. Check out FlyFord.org/nonstop-routes to see them all!

Stay Connected & On-Time

Before you go, download your airline’s app to your phone to stay up-to-date with travel information, like gate changes and flight delays. Even flying nonstop, give yourself extra time getting to the airport in case of slow traffic. Luckily, when you fly from GRR, there are plenty of restaurants, retail shops and relaxation spaces to visit if you arrive early.

No Baggage with Baggage

It’s always a good travel tip to start with completely empty luggage to avoid accidentally packing prohibited items. For winter travel, consider a hard side suitcase to protect against snow and slush. And always be sure to pack your carry-on with the essentials, like travel documents, a spare change of clothes, prescription meds and device chargers.

Leave the Coat in the Car

Heading nonstop to somewhere warmer? Ditch the parka when you park at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. With close, convenient and covered parking options, you won’t have a chance to feel the chill before you reach the terminal. Instead, dress in layers that you can adjust from airport, to airplane, to your destination.

Health & Safety First

Don’t forget to protect your health while traveling in the winter! Going from cold and dry to warm and humid (and back again) can take its toll on your skin—pack lotion, chapstick, and sunscreen, no matter where you’re traveling. Additionally, a change in climate or altitude can also impact your immune system, so having hand sanitizer and tissues with you helps to avoid unwanted germs.

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