Your Transportation Options for Traveling Back Home During Eid Holidays

Traveling back to one’s hometown, known as “mudik” in Indonesia, is an annual tradition done by many Indonesians as part of their Eid holiday traditions. For those living far from their hometowns, the travel typically uses a mode of transportation. Some choose public, while others prefer private ones.

So, what about you?Have you considered what mode of transportation you will take for Eid travel back home? Or do you still need to learn about proper transportation? Here are some recommended transportation options for your travel back to your hometown. Starting with:

Airplane

Air travel is a popular choice for Eid travel, providing both comfort and shorter travel time compared to other modes of transportation. It is no wonder that there is a surge in plane ticket purchases every Eid holidays. To avoid missing out, buy your tickets well in advance. If you want to snag a deal, consider these tips:

• Choose budget-friendly airlines and pay attention to the amenities they offer.
• Take advantage of ticket booking websites or apps where search can be customized, such as based on departure date, price range, etc.
• Use multiple ticket booking websites or apps to compare airlines prices .
• Opting for a Friday departure is advisable as tickets are usually cheaper on this day.
   

Once you have your tickets, follow these tips to ensure a comfortable trip:

• Choose the right seat for you, such as in the mid-section of the plane near the wing or by the window.
• Get enough rest and avoid staying late to prevent waking up late and keep your body alert.
• Bring a travel blanket to stay warm on the plane and it can double as a sleep pillow.
• Avoid overly spicy and oily foods for your suhoor meals to prevent nausea and take motion sickness medication if needed.

Train

Apart from airplanes, trains are a favorite mode of transportation for Eid travel as they offer beautiful sceneries along the way. Similar to airplanes, train tickets sell out quickly during the Eid season. So, buy your tickets well in advance and follow these tips to avoid being left with none:

• Decide your departure and return dates and note them on your phone to avoid forgetting to book tickets.
• Book tickets through official websites or apps and make sure you have a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions during the ticket purchase.
• On D-day, make sure to set an alarm at least 30 minutes before ticket booking opens.
• Take advantage of the autofill feature for passenger data to expedite the ticket booking process.
• If unsuccessful, do not give up and recheck ticket availability closer to the Eid travel season.

For a comfortable Eid travel on the train, consider these tips:

• Avoid carrying too much luggage to make it easier to load and unload your baggage to and from the train.
• Dress comfortably to make it easier to move around and adjust your sitting position during your time on the train.
• Bring a book or other readings to combat boredom during the trip and to read if you cannot sleep.
• If you travel at night, remember to pack something to eat, such as snacks, drinks, etc.

Bus

Besides airplanes and trains, many choose buses for Eid travel due to their relative affordability and the chance to enjoy the surrounding sceneries Typically, you can head directly to the bus terminal for short distances without pre-booking tickets. However, you need to pre-book your tickets offline or online for longer journeys.

For offline ticket bookings, visit an official ticket agent near you. Meanwhile, for online bookings, consider these steps:

• Choose a trustworthy ticket-booking website and read customer reviews of the website before purchasing.
• Read the terms and conditions, typically covering information about booking procedures, payment methods, and departure rules.
• Select a website providing comprehensive route, city, and bus operator offerings for more convenient ticket booking.

To keep you comfortable during travel, the following tips might help:

• Avoid overpacking and bring only what you need so you do not get overwhelmed.
• Take advantage of rest area stops for a stroll or stretching to prevent muscle stiffness.
• Bring a neck pillow to avoid neck and upper back pain.
• Do not leave your belongings unattended, refrain from wearing excessive jewelry, and carry just enough cash.

Private Transportation

Some prefer riding their own private vehicles for Eid travel. Unlike public transportation, traveling by private transportation is usually considered more relaxed, allowing you to decide when to depart, for example, a day or three days before Eid. Besides being flexible in schedule, using a private vehicle is more comfortable and can be more cost-effective.

To ensure safety and comfort, consider these tips when traveling by private transportation:

• Get 7-9 hours of sleep the night before you depart to stay alert throughout the trip.
• Review your travel route and do not forget to bring an electronic toll card for toll payments.
• Take short breaks at rest areas to refresh, cool down the car, go to the restroom, etc.
• Make sure to service your vehicle before the trip to prevent breakdowns.
• Protect yourself with Mudik Aman Insurance from MSIG Indonesia, which offers protection for you and your family during your private vehicle Eid travel. The process is secure, convenient, and quick, making it a worthwhile option for those planning to travel back to their hometowns.

So, which mode of transportation will you choose for your Eid “mudik” travel? Whatever your choice, make sure to pick a comfortable and timely option that suits your schedule!