Gotcha! Were you pranked by these April Fools' travel jokes posted worldwide?

Aug 20, 2019 • 3 min read

travel april fools

Getting caught out on April Fools' day happened to all of us today.   So  we've come up with a list of some of the best and funniest travel-related April Fools’ Day pranks from around the world. From the introduction of kids' class cabins to robots delivering inflight orders, the travel industry pulled out all the stops today to try to hoodwink the public.

Read on to see if you were taken in by any of these jokes?

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1.  In-flight robots in Canada

Canadian airline WestJet tried to fool us by introducing RALFH, a computerised food and beverage robot that travels along the ceiling delivering your inflight orders. Actually, we like the sound of that one! Read more: WestJet

Adult free cabin anyone?

2.  Adult-free kids' class travel in Australia

Virgin Australia tried to trick us into believing that they were introducing an adult-free children's cabin. Customised teddies and bubbles on demand plus unrestricted seat-kicking anyone? Watch here:  Virgin Australia

i.ytimg.com maxresdefault (1)

3. Bad weather protection organisation in New Zealand

Gold Coast Tourism released a set of rules to Kiwi travellers, who they claim are" well-known for bringing bad weather with them," to stop them raining all over the popular hot holiday destination of Gold Coast.  They warned that they will be looking out for tourists seeking to smuggle contraband lik umbrellas, rain jackets or ponchos in and by keeping a watchful eye out for those wearing extra layers on the beach. Read more:  Gold Coast Tourism

The Flying Scotsman locomotive under steam at the East Lancashire Railway tracks in public for the first time

4. Return of the Flying Scotsman on the East and West Coast

Virgin Trains announced that customers will soon be able to catch a steam train to work, and claimed that the original Flying Scotsman locomotive would be joining its fleet later this year on its East Coast and West Coast routes. A 25 per cent discount on tickets was offered to customers willing to shovel coal to help keep the train running across the route. Read more:  Virgin Trains

Disney

5.  Japan has been bought by Disney

Are they taking the Mickey? A French blog claimed that Disney has bought Japan, making it the first country to become the property of a private company. Read more:  Mr Mondialisation

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6. The self-driving bicycle in the Netherlands

Google Netherlands alleged that they were introducing a self-driving bicycle in Amsterdam, to enable safe navigation through the city and further its ambition to improve urban mobility with technology. On your bike, Google. Watch here:  Google Netherlands

Image by Maurizio Pesce / CC BY 2.0

7.   Excess weight rules in Denmark

Danish newspaper Berlingske claimed that a new rule was being introduced where aeroplane passengers would have to pay a fee for every extra kilo they and their luggage combined weigh over 105 kilos. Read more:  Berlingske

A Game of Thrones sign at Ballintoy Harbour in Northern Ireland.

8.  Replica of Westeros to be built in Dubai

There was high excitement at the news reported by The Telegraph that Dubai was on its way to recreate Westeros the fictional land of Game of Thrones in the emirate. Known for its outlandish and ambitious designs, this would not have been a far cry from something that might actually happen in Dubai. The Telegraph reported that the designs addressed the problems of temperature, and that some of the stars of the show would also be in attendance intermittently. Sadly no such plans are underway, so diehard fans must wait and see if this April Fool’s encourages anyone to actually recreate a Westeros . Read more: Telegraph

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2024’s Best Travel Parodies and April Fools’ Jokes

a yellow balloon with a mustache and glasses

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I love when companies poke fun at themselves and join in the fun that is April Fools’ Day. Airlines, tourist attractions, and even airports have been posting today with some clever and funny takes. Here are some of my favorites.

🚨 BREAKING NEWS: OUR GIANT FLAMINGO IS ON THE LOOSE 🚨 Phoebe escaped her enclosure at 8:47 AM and has been spotted throughout the Tampa Bay area🦩 🫡 Flamingo recovery efforts are underway ✅ If you see something, say something 🗣️ REPOST TO RAISE AWARENESS pic.twitter.com/Q731uTnZBW — Tampa International Airport ✈️ (@FlyTPA) April 1, 2024

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Tampa is my home airport in the winter and I love it for its great layout, ease of getting from curb to gate, and the number of flights it offers for a smaller airport. One other standout feature is its giant flamingo statue named “Phoebe.” Apparently, Phoebe hit the road today to take in Spring Break in Tampa Bay.

BREAKING: We're excited to announce the launch of the World's Highest Rainforest Cafe right here at the Empire State Building Check out our inaugural menu here: https://t.co/jDm0g3t7ca pic.twitter.com/QBPmQaJay9 — Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 1, 2024

Empire State Building

Sure, you can dine in the Eiffel Tower (in both Paris and Las Vegas), but what about a restaurant high atop the Empire State Building? Rainforest Cafe is apparently coming to the NYC landmark.

Solid @FlyFrontier April Fools press release pic.twitter.com/xzIFkSs1lj — Ryan Ewing (@FlyingHighRyan) April 1, 2024

Frontier Airlines Launches Service from New York John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Bora Bora Airport (BOB)

Frontier Airlines announced today that its adding 2x weekly flights between New York and Bora Bora. The carrier only needs the widebody aircraft and government clearance.

#CLTairport is excited to introduce the newest member of the #CLTCanineCrew ! 🐴 pic.twitter.com/eZgV2DCg7e — CLT Airport (@CLTAirport) April 1, 2024

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

A few years ago, an image of a service pony on a plane was making the rounds online. Now, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is adding one to its security team.

We're bringing some fun to the security line! Introducing our exclusive line of TSA-inspired clothing with slogans like "I'll stack your bin" and "Only swipes right for TSA PreCheck"! Make sure to grab yours before it’s too late! ➡️ https://t.co/efgR1IYB6m #TSAApparel #MerchDrop pic.twitter.com/G2gh3Noej8 — TSA (@TSA) April 1, 2024

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The government agency has announced a new line of clothing and travel gear on this April 1st.

Exciting news! 🍓 We’ve served our signature blueberry juice onboard our flights since 2014, but now it’s time for a change. As of today, 1 April, we will start serving strawberry juice instead of blueberry juice onboard our flights. Find out more: https://t.co/aDAzmvnx1J pic.twitter.com/EHatPuSyI7 — Finnair (@Finnair) April 1, 2024

The Finnish carrier is known for its signature blueberry juice. A change today will have flyers tasting strawberry juice while in flight in the near future.

From the streets to the skies. This month we’re bringing NYC’s iconic @NathansFranks to our JetBlue snack carts. 🌭🌭🌭 pic.twitter.com/NGl8fcbVkJ — JetBlue (@JetBlue) April 1, 2024

Poor JetBlue needs a win after its big loss in the Spirit merger plan . Bringing Nathan’s hot dogs on its flights would certainly help (although that umbrella is never getting down the aisle).

We're all about convenience at DEN and getting to your gate just got a whole lot easier! Introducing DEN Screen&Ride: America's FIRST driveway to runway service. ✈️ Book your ride now: https://t.co/XNNeIATtTl pic.twitter.com/ASlykU1Nx8 — Denver Int'l Airport (@DENAirport) April 1, 2024

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Denver is introducing a first-of-its-kind mobile screening service to get you through security before you even arrive at the airport.

Anthony’s Take: April Fools’ Day posts are fun and I love when companies join in and create some fake news. Have you seen any funny/quirky travel-related posts today?

(Featured Image Credit: mesh cube.)

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Breaking: United Airlines Replaces Polaris Catering With Wendy’s Biggie Bags

A united airlines flight forced to turn around after a toilet overflowed.

Frankfurt Airport Lufthansa

Anthony Losanno

Anthony is a road warrior with a love of all things travel. He has flown over three million miles, mostly in his favorite bulkhead seat (1B). He'll share the tips and tricks he's learned along the way as well as his thoughts on airlines, hotels, destinations, attractions, restaurants, and ways to get more out of loyalty programs.

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Simple Flying

The best of aviation april fools 2024.

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If you thought the airline industry was all about challenging operations, razor-thin margins, and competitive airfares, the April Fools’ Day every year is also a reminder that it has an appetite for humor. Here’s what cracked people up this year.

Emirates Residences

Emirates teased its A380 fans with the idea of super luxurious apartments, offering an in-flight experience. Not only will the tower have its own airport, we couldn’t help but notice that construction will begin on February ‘31’ next year.

WestJet MemorEase™

Holidays are fun! But do we need to take a real one? WestJet forced us to consider this existential question as people get increasingly busy in their lives. Why travel physically when WestJet can implant vacation memories directly into your brains with its revolutionary AI-powered MemorEase™ headset. We love that they trademarked the name, too.

Denver airport’s driveway to runway service

If you live within 45 miles of Denver International Airport (DEN) and have $99 to spare, it will send specially-trained drivers to your driveway who will screen you and your bags and drive you directly to the airline gate. TSA was quite impressed and even asked DEN on Instagram whether it should add this as a PreCheck package option.

Solution to a stinky problem

Not a fan of people who rudely pass gas on a flight? (well, who is!) Ever wondered who let out that noisy one just to wake you up from your mid-flight siesta? Ever looked around the cabin to find the source of those dangerous, silent, stinky bombs (it’s usually the ones who avoid eye contact).

Travel deals platform HolidayPirates revealed that an unnamed European airline is installing thermal cameras inside its planes to deal with passengers who like to unnecessarily share their flatulence with fellow travelers. More power to them!

TSA-inspired clothing

TSA cheekily introduced a line of clothing and other merchandise with witty slogans. So convincing was the presentation that many took the bait and clicked on the link to shop online.

easyJet Holibobs

easyJet ruffled a few feathers by compiling a list of not-so-loved phrases and words in a well-thought-out rebranding of easyJet Holidays to easyJet Holibobs. We’ll let the Chief Holibob Officer’s inspiring message do all the talking,

“…Whether you’re looking for a Summer holibob with your huns, a Chrimbo holibob with the hubby and famalam or a spring holibob with BAE - we have just the holibob to make your friends jelly. Amazeballs!”

Frontier widebody planes

Carriers reserve big airshows to announce significant fleet restructuring, but coincidentally, Frontier Airlines chose April 1 to announce twice-weekly Bora Bora service on its ‘widebody’ planes.

Finnair's juice replacement

Replacing a best-selling product would probably raise a few eyebrows, but that is exactly what Finnair did. Don’t be surprised if you're served strawberry juice on your next Finnair flight instead of the usual blueberry. Quite a strategic move!

In your seat in 3 minutes, or else…

FlySafair is applying military-level precision to its efficiency, arming crew members with whistles to direct passengers to their seats and for disembarking, among other things. If you’re not in your seats in three minutes, you'll be asked to offload luggage upon arrival. And they’re not kidding (or are they?)

Reserve your armrest at Jetstar

Offering timely departures and efficient service is just not enough these days. And to stay competitive, Jetstar has introduced the option of reserving your armrest for only $2. Whatever it takes to empower passengers to claim what’s rightfully theirs!

And finally...

Did you hear that Simple Flying recently acquired an Airbus A380 for London office space? The aircraft will be positioned on a barge in the River Thames and will have innovative interiors for employees. Check out all the latest on this exciting development in the article below.

Announcement: Simple Flying Acquires Airbus A380 For London Office Space

The aircraft is set to bear the registration A-FOOL.

Which one of these was your favorite? Please let us know in the comment section.

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Emirates

Home » News » The best and worst travel related April Fools pranks, and the ones that could become a reality

The best and worst travel related April Fools pranks, and the ones that could become a reality

travel april fools

April Fools Day pranks have become so mainstream that it’s almost novel to get a regular press release on April 1.

In saying that, they can often be a great reflection of where an industry or a brand is perceived in the minds of its customers.

It takes a pretty convincing pitch to fool an all too media savvy audience these days. But, some brands still manage to get across the line, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

While some are just ridiculous, others can get you thinking about what trends could be on the horizon.

Here are some from the travel industry that caught our attention this year – even if it’s for the wrong reason.

KLM introduced a “revolutionary new cabin feature” ..and one we all secretly want

The Recline Alert System.

The airline said it had developed a sound effect that notifies passengers when the seat in front of them is reclining.

KLM is proud to introduce a revolutionary new cabin feature: The Recline Alert System. We've developed a sound effect that notifies passengers when the seat in front of them reclines. The new system will be introduced on all KLM flights from April 1, 2023. #KLM #comingsoon pic.twitter.com/NRapmHMVLU — KLM (@KLM) March 31, 2023

There’s yet to be any technology developed that will sigh and complain under its breath on your behalf when this happens.

JetBlue announced the launch of a wearable whiteboard to ensure passengers never missed a meal service.

Labelled “a totally real and not made up whiteboard sleep mask,” the accompanying photoshopped image showed a man fast asleep with “ONE GINGER ALE, PLEASE! Written on his forehead.

Never miss another tomato juice, ginger ale or salty snack again. Introducing: The JetBlue Snack Mask. Guaranteed to satisfy all your snacking needs. pic.twitter.com/gFvJOugY4l — JetBlue (@JetBlue) April 1, 2023

You’d have to have fool written on yours to fool for this one.

SkyTeam’s effort was far more believable, probably because the service likely exists in some airports.

A new dog spa at the SkyTeam Lounge in Santiago.

We're delighted to unveil our new dog spa at the SkyTeam Lounge in Santiago. Starting next month, passengers traveling with dogs can give their furry friends a little pre-flight relaxation before their flight ✨ pic.twitter.com/Hir0BsJsoK — SkyTeam (@skyteam) April 1, 2023

“Starting next month, passengers traveling with dogs can give their furry friends a little pre-flight relaxation before their flight,” the alliance said in a Tweet.

Air Transat put its tongue even further into its cheek in their effort, claiming to be a partnership with Airbus.

travel april fools

The roof may get in the way (Facebook/AirTransat)

It announced the introduction of sun loungers in some of its aircraft.

“Get ready to stretch out and enjoy the skies like never before. Our innovative design offers unparalleled relaxation, so you can kick back, relax, and arrive at your destination refreshed and ready for adventure.”

Potentially the most painful effort came from Royal Caribbean, which announced the launch of its new ship, Crikey of the Seas.

The new liner to be operating around Australia was said to feature Budgie Beach, a Cricket field, BBQ’s on the balcony suites, Aussie cocktails including Vegemite mojito, lamington mudslide, fairy bread margarita and a pavlova spritz. Meat Pie making classes, an AC/DC themed night, a Kylie Minogue silent disco and Tim Tam Slam competitions.

travel april fools

Should that be cringe? (Facebook/Royal Caribbean)

Cringe of the Seas may be more accurate.

The winner in all aspects of foolery was once again, Emirates.

It has a history of pushing out convincing photoshop images or edited video to mark the April Fools occasion.

This year was no different. An Emirates Cruise Line was announced.

“We’ve conquered the skies, and now, we’re charting course to take over the seas! Introducing Emirates Sealine – our ultra-luxurious cruise liner.”

We've conquered the skies, and now, we're charting course to take over the seas! Introducing Emirates Sealine – our ultra-luxurious cruise liner. 🌊 🛳️ https://t.co/iBSH2ngGw6 pic.twitter.com/H3B2HRpCJ1 — Emirates (@emirates) March 31, 2023

What is interesting about this one is that there is likely to be a team of executives at the airline who have looked at this and added it to the airline’s potential future investments.

They’ve ticked off the double-decker plane, just imagine what they could do on the ocean.

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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The Best Airline, Cruise & Travel April Fool’s Jokes for 2023

2019: New business: Mouse Sherpas to hold your stuff while walking around the parks 2021: Selfie shoes

A lot of places stopped doing April Fool’s jokes during the pandemic. But since covid has waned, bunches of places are back at it. Here are the travel-related ones we found that we thought were the best this year:

Skiplagged says it will be offering Bad Seatmate Insurance.

Say hello to Skiplagged's Bad Seatmate Insurance A $1M answer to inebriated passengers, tiny tantrums, and chair-foot invaders on all flights Your ultimate #AprilFools flying buddy 😂 pic.twitter.com/4ToVCKvHJ8 — Skiplagged | Travel ✈️ (@Skiplagged) April 1, 2023

Emirates said they were introducing a cruise ship.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emirates (@emirates)

Amtrak was going to start offering a Loud Car

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amtrak (@amtrak)

The National Park Service said the cherry tree cut down by George Washington has regenerated.

Unbelievable! The legendary cherry tree cut down by young George Washington has regenerated on the Washington Monument grounds and is patriotically blooming red, white & blue blossoms. #NationalMall #WashingtonDC pic.twitter.com/r82ob8WSjV — National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) April 1, 2023

KLM was introducing a Recline Alert System

KLM is proud to introduce a revolutionary new cabin feature: The Recline Alert System. We've developed a sound effect that notifies passengers when the seat in front of them reclines. The new system will be introduced on all KLM flights from April 1, 2023. #KLM #comingsoon pic.twitter.com/NRapmHMVLU — KLM (@KLM) March 31, 2023

The Eiffel Tower has installed the world’s tallest slide

🇫🇷 Vous n'êtes pas prêts pour ma nouvelle attraction de l'été ! Le plus haut toboggan du monde sera installé sur mon sommet à partir du 1er juillet ! 🌐You're not ready for this! The tallest slide in the world will be installed on my summit from July 1st! 📽️ @origiful pic.twitter.com/MrwlmYvtic — La tour Eiffel (@LaTourEiffel) April 1, 2023

Air North , Yukon’s airline, has a new way to tow its Boeing 737s .

The Paris Air Show was going to include the USS Enterprise this summer.

🚨 BIG NEWS ! Cette année le USS Enterprise (NCC-1701) sera présent au #ParisAirShow pour une démo exceptionnelle. Vous êtes prêts pour cette édition 2023 qui s'annonce "fascinante" ? #StarTrek #PoissondAvril #AVgeek pic.twitter.com/hMQgUNKUvo — Paris Air Show (@salondubourget) April 1, 2023

Zion National Park had an outbreak of giant squirrels.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zion National Park (@zionnps)

Liverpool John Lennon Airport was going to replace its statue of John Lennon.

To celebrate Eurovision in Liverpool, we are pleased to announce that we will be installing a sculpture of Sam Ryder at the airport, replacing our current John Lennon statue. It will be unveiled on Monday 8 May. 📸 An artist’s impression of how the Sam Ryder sculpture will look pic.twitter.com/OWRlRtFRZt — Liverpool John Lennon Airport (@LPL_Airport) April 1, 2023

FlightRadar24 was going to add a new feature to their apps.

We just added a new feature to our Android and iOS apps. See the number of passengers on board an aircraft! To activate the feature launch the Flightradar24 app and shake your phone 4 times. pic.twitter.com/EDrHhKjqnL — Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) April 1, 2023

Virgin Australia introduced dry cleaning on its flights

Introducing 'Virgin Australia Fly Cleaning'. Say goodbye to the post-holiday laundry marathon 😍 #FlyCleaning pic.twitter.com/pSduLzaZbe — Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) March 31, 2023

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Best April Fool Travel Pranks from Google and Others: Our Favorite Jokes

travel april fools

History of April Fools Day

Did you know that April Fools Day dates back to ancient Rome? Known as the Hiliaria Festival, Romans honored the goddess Cybele on the vernal equinox with shouts of joy and feasting. Strict rules stipulated that revelers could show no signs of sadness. Fast forward to the medieval Feast of Fools, which took place annually until about the 16th century. Due to coarse humor and some abuses, officials tended to frown on the revelries. Yet the tradition was here to stay. From then on, celebrants marked the first day of April with practical jokes and by playing tricks on unsuspecting friends and family members.

To this day, American children look forward to the day when they can play pranks without too much worry about consequences. The Roar, a Florida high school newspaper, suggests that youngsters glue coins to the sidewalk and hide nearby to watch people as they attempt to pick them up. Another suggested practical joke involves a plastic spider that the prankster can hide in the shower before an intended victim enters it. The youth is then encouraged to “listen for the scream.”

Adults and children get in on the action in Germany. All day long, you can hear “April, April,” which is the shout of the prankster to the victim who has been fooled. Even reputable publications get in on the action. The Local recounts the authentic-sounding announcement by the Tagesspiegel, a Berlin paper, which claimed that metro station naming rights were being auctioned off… With potentially awkward consequences. Before the requests for more information became a nuisance to the paper, it admitted to the joke.

French April Fools combine their love for practical jokes with a play on words. In France, April Fools are referred to as ‘April Fish’ because, as the France Travel Guide explains, there was once a tradition of sticking paper fish – the fish is the symbol of the Spring zodiac sign Pisces – to the backs of the rural French who continued to celebrate New Year just before April 1. (The royal order of King Charles XIV, which reformed the calendar and effectively moved New Year’s Day, took a little while to make its way across the nation.) The tradition of the paper fish has survived the centuries. It is not uncommon for children to surreptitiously attach these outward signs of being had to the backs of classmates, adults, teachers and pretty much anyone around.

Why not go ahead and combine all the traditions this year? Glue a coin to the sidewalk, sneak up on the unsuspecting person trying to pick it up, attach a paper fish to her or his back and then loudly yell “April, April!”

Best April Fool Travel Pranks

There’s one day every year that’s designated for pranks, and that day is April Fool’s Day. Jokes played out on April Fool’s Day don’t just occur at home. As big companies are getting more personable, they’re also upping their game with April Fool’s jokes. These jokes go from funny tweets and photoshopped photos to full-blown videos convincing customers of new features. We’ve rounded up a list of our all-time favorite April Fool prank videos for you below.

Virgin Australia

Flying, especially when you’re in a budget airline or economy seat, can be space-restrictive. Why settle for a leg stretch when you could hop on a bike and really get that blood pumping? Last year, Virgin Australia introduced a new onboard spin class. The sky-high exercise experience wasn’t the only thing they offer in the video. They even have special Virgin Australia work-out outfits and fortifying post-exercise meals as well.

This wasn’t Virgin Australia’s first April Fool’s travel joke. A few years ago, they rolled out a new favorite feature for furry travelers. The Premium Paw Door Entry airport lounge for pets boasted of special “park-inspired” play areas and “gourmet dining experience” designed especially for pets. At Virgin Australia, they’re not looking to just settle with a great travel experience for you. They want to elevate your pet’s travel experience as well.

Sometimes we book Airbnb experiences to have a little taste of home while we travel. Other times, we want to be immersed in the new city or country we’re traveling to, so we book rooms and spaces that are a little different than what’s typical. That’s why Airbnb decided to roll out a new sister program, Lairbnb. Book a Lairbnb for the time of your life in someone else’s world. Who knows, you might learn a thing or two about a lifestyle you didn’t know about before. Book your Lairbnb here . Or alternatively, if you’re looking to book an actual Airbnb, book that here .

If your dream vacation involves you, four wheels and a long stretch of road ahead, Lexus has developed the perfect technology for you. No need to feel locked in behind someone driving slow in the carpool lane. The Lexus Lane Valet will ensure the road ahead is clear and every person is in the right lane. Needless to say, this is a product we can get behind. Traveling by car has never been easier!

Do you like hummus? Do you ever get disappointed with the hummus you eat because it’s just not quite what you prefer? Now, you don’t have to go to Israel to taste the perfect hummus for you. Leave it to Google to create a ridiculously good fake product, one we’re still hoping might become a reality. Everyone can appreciate a good hummus, but hummus is only the first step. Soon, there will be an API for all your favorite dishes. No more mediocre hummus, and no more mediocre meals. You + Google = the best dinner date ever.

Google didn’t stop with the Google Cloud Hummus API. With the technology of self-driving cars developing so rapidly, it’s no wonder that Google Netherlands developed a special product tailored to the country: the self-driving bicycle. It makes sense, as the Dutch ride their bikes more than any other country. With the special pick-up feature, your bike will come to you! No need to pull out your Google Maps anymore. The self-driving bicycle help utilize efficiency, giving a hands-free experience to squeeze in an extra bit of multitasking during a morning commute. Is it more dangerous than riding your own bike in the Netherlands? We’re still waiting to hear back about that…

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travel april fools

The Best April Fools’ Day Pranks in Travel

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April Fools’ Day has always held a soft spot in my heart. Not knowing how to read a calendar, my little sister and I would wreck havoc year-round on any unsuspecting victim’s — usually my dad. We’d paint his toenails red and put paint chips in his mouth while he slept peacefully oblivious. Some classics were placing baby oil on the toilet seats, silly puddy on the shower head, hiding rotten eggs… but enough of my memory lane. This year I’ve cooked up the best April Fools’ Day pranks for travelers.

Table of Contents

At the Airport

Replace a fellow travelers passport with one of those children’s ones you get in a happy meal. Hide their real passport somewhere incognito in their carry-on luggage such as between the pages of a book and watch them squirm as they try to explain their way out the situation.

Show up to the airport dressed like the Hamburglar . When checking in, make subtle references to being on FBI’s most wanted list. Twitch and wipe your brow when the check-in attendant scans your ID, and then fist pump when it goes smoothly. Ask if they know of any air marshals flying today “just out of curiosity.” Comment that it seems that the attendant hasn’t been keeping up with the news (or McDonald’s commercials) much.

Put a baggie of flour in someone’s bag just before boarding on a flight to  Indonesia . (Actually you probably shouldn’t try this one either.)

On the Plane

Hang a clothesline up across your aisle. Then place a pair of wet socks onto them and asks if anyone has a spare pair of compression socks because yours have gotten “just a bit pungent.” Bonus if you can put them near the air conditioning vent.

Start talking to the person sitting next to you about your entire life story, beginning with how your grandparents met and a detailed history of your ancestors. Say things like, “fast forward to when…” and “long story short” and skip back to the time Jesus was born (and how he influenced your ancestors migration). Include many “side notes” and “let me explain” statements. Lean forward so that they are forced to hold eye contact with you for the entire duration of the interesting story about how old Uncle Bill, well, his name was William but we call him Bill. Strange really? To call someone William, “Bill?” You would think he’d be Will or even Liam but Bill? Anyways, old Uncle Bill is gluten free. He can’t eat rice or porridge… or was it grains he can no longer have? Shame really, to give up donuts. He always thought it was IBS – you know what that is, don’t you? I have IBS, by the way, so excuse me if I have to get up often to use the little girl’s room. I can’t help it. I inherited IBS from my Aunt Mae, short for Mable. People assume it’s short for Maybelline. Have you ever heard of Maybelline? Maybe she’s born with it, maybe it’s Maybelline? Get it? Maybe and Maybelline? Clever, hey?  (If they get up to go to the bathroom, get up and stand in line with them to keep the riveting conversation going. Reference as many catchy jingles and abstract people as possible.)

When most of the passengers start sleeping, stand up, yodel, and beat your fists to your chest. Explain that you’re just keeping the circulation in your body moving to avoid deep vein thrombosis. “Just yellin’ to avoid the thrombo!”

Oldie but goodie: touch the head of every person as you walk through the aisle. Occasionally, scruff the hair. If you’re feeling particularly outgoing, you can play a spontaneous game of, “Duck. Duck. Duck. GOOOOOOOOOOOOOSE!”

Spill fake vomit, blood, and other disgusting items in the bathroom and start coughing loudly. When the next passenger sees it, explain that you’ve just “picked up a little stomach bug” from your travels. Then, secure a paper mask around your mouth and nose.

Walk onto the plane and immediately ask the flight attendant for a couple of airsick bags. When she hands you one, hold up a crumpled up Sizzler’s Buffet receipt and explain that you’re “going to need a LOT more than that!” Mutter that the clam linguine was a bit tangier than usual and that you knew you should’ve taken those damn lactose pills.

At Your Destination

In the native language, write, “These people are crazy! Do not help them!” on a piece of paper. Find a local and tell them that your kind taxi driver wrote out directions to your next destination, but you need help translating. See whether the local sides with you or the note. Or, transcribe the words, “Can you please help me find the red light district?” and see how well the local knows his way around town!

This one is a prank against Canada – since they unjustifiably have the friendly reputation in comparison to the USA. Whenever possible, yell in a rude manner, “This would NEVER happen in CANADA!” all while stirring up a crowd. Receive a small portion size? “This would NEVER happen in CANADA!” Shove people in the streets while scoffing, “Get out of my way! People would NEVER walk like this in CANADA!” Together, we can turn the tide of Canada’s international reputation.

Selfie stick jousting: Get a few friends together and invest in a multiple selfie sticks to walk around with in a touristy area. Whenever you see a fellow tourist with a selfie stick, instigate a sword fight or a joust. Run towards strangers with the selfie stick while yelling, “THIS IS SPARTAAA!” If the strangers run away, you can pretend not to know your friends and simulate a spontaneous duel. Props if you’re actually in Sparta.

Attempt to pay for things in baseball or tarot cards. Explain that these are really valued and work as currency in your home country.

Hold a map in front of you and follow a stranger walking around for an entire day. If they stop and stare at you, trace your fingers along the map and do not make eye contact with them. Narrate the journey with, “no… no… this can’t be right” and “hmm… I would have gone left but alright.” If they go into a building, simply choose another leader.

Place a collect call to your family members and tell them that you’ve been abducted and they need to wire you $10,000. Tell them you’ve already lost a kidney because you couldn’t remember the country code to place the call. Blow all of the money partying with rich oil sheikhs in Dubai while hashtagging #WhoNeedsKidneys #IHaveTwo #GoFundMeKidney. This may not work with frugal parents or Liam Neeson’s children.

Light sage and start smoking the entire hostel dorm room or your CouchSurfing host’s apartment. Tell others that you can sense the presence of the poltergeist and are doing your roommates a favor. At night, while others are sleeping, begin to chant and lean over your victims until they wake up.

Walk around iconic landmarks dressed like a banana. I’ve actually done this one before.

What Would You Do?

There you have it. Any favorites? What one would you love to do?

Your imagination never ceases to amaze me! I am still laughing and getting flashbacks of the little girl who told her friends about her Witch grandma who could turn kids into stew if they were mean to animals and that sand monkeys stole shoes….and….that is only only the beginning. Oh Chantae, your blog is so mischievous and creative and so hilarious. Creative minds….OMG..travelers beware on April fools day..

  • Hahaha. The sand monkeys ARE real! It’s true 😛 someone commented on Twitter that these pranks would only get me added to the “No-Fly” list!

Great post. That costume you are sporting in front of the Coliseum is a little freaky though…lol

But bananas are good for you!

I really like the idea of putting a clothesline up across the aisle of the seat you are sitting in, that suggestion had me laughing out loud! I am going on a trip with some of my old college buddies and I have been in the market for some good practical jokes I can play on them, we used to do that to each other all the time while we were in college! I will be sure to bring a clothesline on the trip and put it over one of my buddy’s seats and see what the airline attendant thinks!

Hilarious!!! Do let me know how it goes 😀

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April Fools Day Superstitions, Origins & Traditions

Superstitions, Origins & Traditions

April Fool’s Day is celebrated in the United States each year on April 1 st . It marks a day of pranking, telling tales, and playing practical jokes. Some other countries also participate in it, but it is known as All Fool’s Day instead of April Fool’s Day. Although it’s not an official holiday, many people still celebrate it every year. As with any holiday, there are many interesting superstitions and traditions centered around the beginnings of this fun holiday.

History of April Fools Day

There’s no definite answer about how April Fool’s Day started, but there are some theories. Some countries say that it started because it was officially the first day of spring for them and came about as a way to celebrate the winter being over. Another theory states that some countries would not follow a calendar that stated that the first day of the year was actually on April 1 st and those individuals were dubbed as an April Fool.

Some people also believe that the festival of Hilaria, which means “the cheerful times” in Ancient Rome, was a precursor to the modern-day April Fool’s Day. It was a day dedicated to the goddess Cybele and involved playing practical jokes on one another to encourage hilarity and laughter. The festival’s origins can be traced back to Egyptian mythology, which the Romans incorporated into their own religious practices as they expanded their empire.

April Fools Day Superstitions

Don’t prank anyone after 12pm . A commonly held superstition on April Fools’ Day is that it is unlucky to take part in pranks or practical jokes after the stroke of noon. It is believed that doing so will bring forth misfortune. This belief has no factual basis, as it is nothing more than an unfounded legend.

Another superstition surrounding April Fools’ Day suggests that being pranked will result in bad luck throughout the year . This notion stems from the belief that being fooled is a manifestation of foolishness, which supposedly attracts misfortune. Yet, no credible proof exists to substantiate this superstition. The notion that one’s zodiac sign can determine their personality traits or future is false and unsupported by evidence. It is simply a false belief.

Spotting a Black Cat on April Fool’s Day brings bad luck. In many cultures, black cats symbolize ill fortune, and some believe that spotting one on the day of April Fools will lead to misfortune throughout the year. Yet, despite its prevalence, there is no scientific proof to back this up.

Changing your name on this day. If you change your name on April Fools’ Day, misfortune will follow you. This belief rests on the premise that changing your name represents a significant choice in life, and undertaking such a decision on a day associated with light-hearted trickery may not be fortuitous.

Breaking a Mirror. If you accidentally break a mirror on the first of April, also known as April Fools’ Day, then you will be cursed with bad luck for seven years. Smashing a mirror is believed to bring misfortune regardless of the time, but on April Fools’ Day, some believe it results in seven years of bad luck instead of the typical period.

Don’t Loan any money. One popular belief is that if you loan money on the 1st of April, you will not get it back. Loaning money on April Fools’ Day is a guaranteed way to lose funds. The belief originates from the notion that lending money on a day designated for playful tricks and deceit is foolish.

Wearing Two Different Shoes. One superstitious belief is that wearing two different shoes on April Fools’ Day will bring luck. Some individuals believe that if you wear shoes that don’t match on the first of April, you will experience favorable outcomes throughout the year. This belief is said to have started in England, where it was common to wear mismatched socks on this occasion.

Eating Fish on this Day. One belief that is considered superstitious is that consuming fish on April Fools’ Day will bring good fortune. Widely believed by some that consuming fish on April Fools’ Day will bring good fortune throughout the year. This concept is believed to have originated in Italy, where fish is commonly eaten on this day.

Don’t Clean the Floor. If you decide to clean your floor on April Fools’ Day, you might believe that you’re also ridding yourself of any good fortune that is currently in your life due. Some people think sweeping the floor on April Fools’ Day can bring bad luck for the entire year.

Don’t Read any Letters. It is believed that one should not read a letter received on April Fools’ Day. There are those who hold the belief that it is best not to read any letters received on April Fools’ Day. The basis for this superstition lies in the assumption that such correspondence may turn out to be a practical joke or prank.

Don’t Carry out a practical joke. One belief held as superstition is that if you do not carry out a practical joke on April Fools’ Day, ill fortune will come your way.

travel april fools

How April 1 st Is Celebrated Around The World

In the United States, individuals usually shout “April Fools!” when they pull off a practical joke. In the United Kingdom, pranks are only acceptable in the morning and anyone who pulls off an April Fool’s Joke after that is considered to be a fool. In Scotland, their version of April Fool’s Day is called “Hunt The Gowk Day” and involves sending someone on a prank-filled errand or sending them back and forth. In France and Italy, they refer to the holiday as April Fish Day or “ Poisson d’Avril ” in french and “Pesce d’aprile,” in Italian, they tape a paper fish to another person’s back, and scream “April Fish.” German’s April Fools Day is known as “April-Scherz,” which means “April joke.” In Brazil, the day is called “Dia da Mentira,” which means “Day of Lies” and people make up outrageous lies or fake announcements.

Famous April Fool’s Day Jokes

-A famous millionaire named Dick Smith decided to auction off Antarctica icebergs in 1978. He told people that by breaking pieces of the iceberg off and placing them in their drinks that it would freshen the taste of their beverage. It turns out that the “iceberg” that Smith was auctioning off was actually just shaving cream and a bunch of fire extinguisher foam that was covered up on a barge.

In 1957, the news program Panorama told listeners that because Switzerland had a very mild winter and no spaghetti pests, they were actually able to grow spaghetti. They urged individuals to put a piece of spaghetti in a container of tomato sauce, and it would grow.

In 1962, the only television station in Sweden told viewers that their black-and-white TV shows could actually be seen in color if they cut up an old pair of stockings and placed them over their TV screen. Many viewers were disappointed when they realized that it was just an April Fool’s Day prank.

-In 1776, a radio station called BBC Radio 2 got in on the April Fool’s Day fun by telling listeners that at 9:47 a.m., the earth would lose its gravity, and they would be able to float if they jumped in the air. Despite the fact that it was a hoax, many people did report that they had actually floated.

-In 1980 The BBC told its citizens that the world-famous Big Ben clock would be modernized by converting it to digital. This resulted in many outraged citizens and a few people from Japan actually bidding for the clock’s hands.

Are you going to play some practical jokes on April Fool’s Day? You could sprinkle a little bit of salt on your significant other’s toothbrush, place some fake insects around your workplace, or switch your kids’ stuff around in their rooms. You better watch out, though, because those very same people may try to get you back with a few April Fool’s Day pranks of their own.

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Great article! I loved all the April Fool’s stories! Thanks for sharing!

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7 of the best travel April Fools

Blog Home » 7 of the best travel April Fools

Happy April Fools!

Just kidding, it’s tomorrow.

We love a good pull of the leg on April Fools and we’re a particularly lucky bunch of folks, being in the travel industry and all, because we reckon us lot are some of the best at it when it comes to a good old prank on April 1st. To celebrate one of the best days of the year, we’ve rounded up what we think are some of the best April Fools we’ve been treated to by airlines over the years, from Virgin (you know it’s gonna be good!) to an airline you might not have ever heard of before…

Qantas finally spelt their name correctly

travel april fools

Boy, do we have some pub quiz facts for you! Not only is Qantas the third oldest airline in the world, but its name today comes from an acronym to shorten their original, much more wordy name – Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services. So, actually, they do have a good reason for not having a U after Q, even if it bugs you! Still, in 2015, Qantas (sorry, Quantas) announced it had changed its name to include the U, and members of the grammar police around the world rejoiced….that is, until they all realised what the date was. And then they went back to being angry again.

Virgin Australia gave us what we really want…

… not extra legroom, but furry four-legged pals marching up and down the aisles! Back in 2017, Virgin Australia got us when they said that they were super excited to introduce their world-first initiative: a canine crew member would be joining their flight attendants in the sky to give passengers a very warm welcome, a pawshake, and to generally help you pass the time by being cuties. They’ll even keep your place in line for the loo!

Okay, we didn’t fall for this because it was believable , we just really, really, really wanted it to be true.

Today we are excited to unleash our new Virgin Australia Canine Crew in a world first initiative. pic.twitter.com/d1GCIbd3qG — Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) March 31, 2017

They also gave us something we’d rather pass on, to be honest…

… if you can’t avoid exercise 38,000 feet in the air, then where can you? Yep, Virgin Australia were also behind the world’s first in-flight spinning class, and they even roped in Virgin Active to make it extra believable.

The idea was that instead of serving you a nice glass of wine or the bag of pretzels you really want, they’d give you a lovely leaflet telling you about all the class times. Lucky us. And those business class jammies you couldn’t wait to whip on? Nah, how about some gym clothes instead!

Today we’re excited to launch Virgin Australia Spin Class, the world’s first in-flight cycling studio. pic.twitter.com/J14Dikl6zx — Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) March 31, 2018

WestJet was all about payloads without paying loads

travel april fools

The award for most invested in April Fools might just have to go to WestJet for this one. With a full on swish webpage to back it up, in 2022 WestJet went out with a new venture they were boldly undertaking to take passengers on the long haul of long haul – no, not Down Under! Instead they were heading way up there, to somewhere beyond 38,000 feet – space, baby!

Welcome to WestJet-X.

For them, it was all about payloads without having to pay loads (only a measly $500k!), with a bunch of cost saving options like aisle seats and one-way tickets. But because this is WestJet, they weren’t going to skimp out on all the usual stuff you’ve come to know and love – WiFi so you can TikTok from space, an in-flight entertainment system so you can watch Planet of the Apes , and everyone’s fave bag of pretzels, just with a side of zero gravity.

And how were they doing this? Well, it was quite simple, actually. They’d made a plane that was “aerodynamically-er” designed. And to reassure customers, it even came complete with ‘reviews’ – Elon Musk called it ‘a must’, but a flat-earther was less than impressed, and was “very disappointed”.

Between you and us, we don’t know what’s crazier, the whole concept or the price of a one-way ticket!

Virgin Atlantic did the ultimate don’t-look-down

Virgin sure do like their world-firsts! Back in 2013, Mr Branson announced that they would now be running a domestic service to Scotland. In a glass-bottomed plane. And what better way to experience the beauty of Scotland as you fly above it?

The idea was to give their passengers the sensation of ‘walking on air’, or the worst case of vertigo in their lives. And they had their eyes on expansion too, with a hope that they’d be able to roll out the glass-bottomed floor across the rest of the fleet in time.

For those of us who can’t handle the glass floor at Blackpool Tower, never mind 38,000 feet in the air, we’re actually pretty glad this one never made into the realm of reality…imagine the carnage if a crack came up!

Take the #LittleRed scenic service to Aberdeen, introducing our world first glass bottom plane http://t.co/MraAfmvJ6m pic.twitter.com/KfRstHNwls — virginatlantic (@VirginAtlantic) April 1, 2013

Virgin Australia said bye-bye to being seated next to the screaming kid…

… by giving them a class of their own. Yep, Virgin Australia made parents (and especially non-parents) the world over elated when they announced (in a scenario that we reckon is totally actually do-able, just saying) that they would now be offering a class on their flights, reserved just for kids. This adult-free zone was a place of hopscotch down the aisle, seats designed specifically with kicking in mind, and a teddy bear ordering service.

This prank was especially well received, with a whole bunch of you well and truly crestfallen when you realised that the kicking of your seat would, in fact, be continuing. One day…

Introducing Virgin Australia Kids Class – the world’s first adult-free aircraft cabin. https://t.co/t7X98x3fRr pic.twitter.com/dzlrZqbliQ — Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) March 31, 2016

And then there was a new kid on the aviation block: FLIKEA

travel april fools

Okay, so this isn’t an airline we actually have, but it’s the one we deserve! In 2017, everyone’s favourite place to get meatballs announced that it was launching its own airline, FLIKEA. We mean, with a name like that it’s practically meant to be! Their new low-cost carrier would take flatpack fans across the world, and would even take them on the world’s first non-stop flight from Sweden to Australia.

And because this is IKEA, the plane would follow their five dimensions of Democratic Design. Come on, repeat after us: exceptional form, quality, sustainability, function, and price! This, they said, would all lead to a reduction in aircraft weight and fuel requirement, reduced transit time, and lower ticket prices.

Our fave thing about this, though? Defo the plan to switch out your bog standard plane seats for that IKEA staple, the POÄNG armchair. Genius!

So these April Fools prank turned out to be a load of baloney, but our cheap flights are very real – come find them at Netflights.com!

travel april fools

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Which Travel Companies Played April Fools' Jokes This Year?

Julian Mark Kheel

It's April 1 all day today, and in recent years travel companies have gotten in on the act of launching April Fools' pranks, some with more success than others. Here's a roundup of the best and worst this year...

WestJet said it was rebranding itself as Canada Air , emphasizing the friendliness of its home nation while poking at its big brother Air Canada with the hashtag #MostCanadian:

Emirates claimed to be launching a triple-decker aircraft with its own swimming pool, games room and more:

travel april fools

Richard Branson fronted Virgin Atlantic's contribution to the day of pranks . announcing the airline's new "flapenergy" technology and the resulting airplane with flappable wings named the Dreambird 1417:

Qatar Airways had a little fun playing off its new QSuites with YouSuite:

And how about Travelodge's new "Whiff and Wake" service that wafts the smell of bacon directly from your hotel room's alarm clock?

travel april fools

Meanwhile, the efforts of some travel companies didn't quite make the grade. Southwest claimed to have created an in-flight matchmaking app called Bucklr:

We don't know what tattoos have to do with travel insurance, but that didn't stop Australian company Travel Insurance Direct from promoting its new "tattoo spell checker" app...

travel april fools

We're also not sure about the Lyft Mono, a wearable hailing device , nor about the guy randomly dancing around while wearing it:

Finally, it's not clear Etihad completely understands how this April Fools' thing works:

Cherry blossom tree in the desert. Get it? Get it...?

Did you catch our own April Fools' story this morning? Check it out here: New Uber Service Ditches Cars & Drivers for Piggyback Rides. And of course, make sure you're following our Facebook , Twitter and Instagram posts, where TPG himself had a little fun today as well:

April Fools' Day pranks: Apps to translate baby stoner sayings, a ghostbuster at Tinder

Every april 1, brands and companies want to get some laughs – and attention – with goofy new 'product' launches. here are some ideas from companies such as sweetgreen, welch's and omaha steaks..

If you don't like Mondays, this one may especially be grating. It's April Fool's Day , when you should trust no one and question everything.

The roots of April Fools' Day may date back before to before the 15th century. But the modern-day April Fools' Day has become a day to prank a friend, family member, co-worker − or your customers.

Even though some companies have had April Fools' pranks backfire , marketers continue to issue spoof products in attempts to get some laughs and attention.

Already ahead of April Fools' Day, 7-Eleven has hinted at a possible prank product: In addition to new Lemon Lime, Green Apple and Sweet Orange flavored 7-Select sparkling waters, out now with partner Miracle Seltzer, there's a fourth flavor coming April 1: Big Bite Hot Dog.

The hot dog-flavored water "combines the mouthwatering experience of 7-Eleven’s iconic Big Bite Hot Dog into one refreshing beverage – ketchup and mustard included," the convenience chain says in a press release . "Say goodbye to the days of alternating bites of a hot dog with sips of a beverage, now those on the go can swap the bun for bubbles."

Krispy Kreme: A special doughnut deal for April Fools' Day

Will Big Bite Hot Dog sparkling water be sold? Its availability will be announced April 1. However, some reporters were sent a can of the drink. USA TODAY can confirm that it definitely smells like hot dog water and has a smoky aftertaste.

If you are interested in trying it, both 7-Eleven and Miracle Seltzer have hinted at having some to give away on their Instagram pages. (If you get a can, share with a friend as it's 16 ounces.)

Here's a roundup of many of the brand-related April Fools’ gag announcements. You've been warned.

Sour cream & onion flavored soda

Despite the proliferation of crazy-flavored products including Peeps-flavored Pepsi , Frank's RedHot sauce-flavored Vlasic pickles and Doritos Nacho Cheese-flavored liquor , healthy soda brand OLIPOP and Pringles are not really teaming up to bring to market a Sour Cream & Onion soda.

The product would have been "a match made in heaven … to bring the delicious, tangy flavor of Pringles’ Sour Cream & Onion flavor to life in liquid form with prebiotic benefits," the companies said.

Stoner lingo translation app

Another dream team prank product: Rosetta Stoned, a mobile app from Rosetta Stone and medical marijuana company Fluent , that "bridges the conversational gap between novice users and seasoned stoners in any social setting."

Da da decoder

Infant equipment site BabyQuip has its own language-bridging lark: the “Baby Translator” app, to decode your baby's secret language.

"Say 'goodbye' to restless nights as you decode your baby's coos and cries instantly, providing you with the understanding you need as a parent, all in one convenient app," it promises.

An AI-powered plush doll

Custom stuffed animal maker Budsies already makes selfie plush dolls with a built-in voice recorder. Its April Fools' spoof: Artificial intelligence-enabled dolls that "come programmed to learn everything about you and to become your new best friend."

A 50-pound Bearabuddy

Sorry to the 3,500 or so who have already signed up to buy Bearaby's Jumbo Benji plush toy, which is four times the size of its regular weighted plush toys and twice as heavy as its heaviest weighted blanket . This isn't actually going to be sold. But it is real and will be making its home in the lobby at The Child Mind Institute in Harlem to welcome children and their families. More weighted plushies are due the day after April Fools' Day, the company says.

A sleeping bag to go bananas over

The Dole Banana Peel Sleeping Bag, conveniently promoted as being available on April Fools' Day only, is made from actual banana fiber and "allows parents to escape into their own cocoon of sensory deprivation."

A full-body cleaning suit

Outrageous clothing company Tipsy Elves has a special product for April Fools' Day: The Mopsie. You don't need paper towels anymore, you can use your body to clean up those messes, with this "innovative, wearable microfiber towel jumpsuit" for "effortlessly soaking up spills and messes with ease." There's also a Baby Mopsie for "hard to reach places."

Korean BBQ deodorant

Kevin's Natural Foods , which has paleo- and keto-certified ready-to-cook and easy-prep entrées, is touting a new line of personal care products inspired by its food dishes including Korean BBQ Deodorant, Cilantro Lime Toothpaste, Lemongrass Basil Shampoo and Tikka Masala Sunscreen.

"These new face, body and hair care essentials will help fans prioritize self-care inside and out," the company says. 

Omaha Steaks' meaty sprays

Omaha Steaks has its own personal care prank product: Meaty Spritz sprays with flavors such as Omaha Fog, Hog Haze, and Cock-a-Doodle-Dew.

"The world’s first protein-infused, flavor-packed, portable pump spray … (to) enjoy all the mouthwatering flavors of your Omaha Steaks gourmet favorites no matter how far away from the kitchen you are!" the company says.

Sriracha toothpaste

Asian sauce maker Lee Kum Kee , which makes Sriracha Chili Sauce and Sriracha Mayo Dressing, is introducing – not – its Siracha Mayo Toothpaste. It's "fiery and creamy goodness … is sure to spice up your morning dental routine."

Post-salad dental kit

Need some less powerful toothpaste? Sweetgreen offered these fanciful personal hygiene products as part of its Sweetgreen After Salad Kit, which is "designed with your pearly whites in mind … offering everything you need to freshen up post-meal."

Choose from Miso Ginger Toothpaste, Spicy Cashew Mints, Lime Cilantro Dental Floss, and Sweetgreen Toothbrush and Floss Picks.

Fruit juice lip gloss

More personal care prank products: Welch’s Juicyfuls Juicy Fruit Lip Gloss – now available in five flavors: grape, orange, peach, strawberry and raspberry – made with real juice from Juicefuls fruit snacks so "you get that irresistible sweet flavor you love, all in a lip gloss that's as fun as it is nourishing."

Protein-powered seasonings

Quest Nutrition , maker of protein powder, snacks and other products, has a prank product line of seasonings including All Purpose, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Herb, each of which deliver "21g of protein, 2g of net carbs and less than 1g of sugar."

If you want to try Quest's real products, you can use code NOJOKE for free shipping on online orders over $49 April 1-3.

Superpowered Superfeet?

These would certainly come in hand on a run, but – sorry – it's a jogging joke. Superfeet SuperBoost Power E-Soles gives you 8 hours of continuous battery-powered boost, for almost Iron Man-like propulsion. "All the comfort and support of Superfeet , now with electrifying performance," the company says in a video about the prank product. "It's like having a powerful electric motor in your shoes."

Scotch tape-branded Scotch?

This shenanigan seems like a blend that could stick: Scotch Whisky by Scotch Brand. The whisky "features a nose of cherry wood and a delightfully smooth finish that hits like a well-wrapped gift."

Who you gonna call when ghosted? This new title at Tinder

Dating app Tinder announced a new April Fools' Day hiring quest for a Vice President of Ghost Hunting to help combat "one of dating culture’s most prevalent vices – ghosting," a practice inflicted on 78% of singles already in 2024 (an untrue fact from Tinder).

Patrón's bringing back a beloved liqueur. No kidding.

Patrón patrons get some good news today. The premium tequila maker chose April Fools' Day to announce the return of its Patrón XO Cafe tequila-based coffee liqueur, which was discontinued in 2021. Since production ceased, devotees took to social media and signed a petition asking parent company Bacardi to bring it back.

Made with Patrón Silver tequila and Arabica bean coffee – the dry liqueur can be sipped straight, in cocktails and as dessert topping – Patrón XO Cafe will begin arriving in stores again later this month.

Say it with dead flowers

Don't forget to put roses on your April Fools' Day list. UrbanStems has this "special" delivery, The Dead Inside Collection, "an assortment of dead flower bouquets, dead plants, half empty vases, and more for the pessimist in your life." But, for real, check UrbanStems' social media accounts including Instagram for how to get 20% off an order of real flowers.

Cheesecake Factory's real deals

The Cheesecake Factory  also has a deal that's no joke: Sign up for the chain's Cheesecake Rewards loyalty program on April 1 to get an Any Slice, Half Price reward, redeemable for 50% off any slice of cheesecake or layer cake, with any food or beverage purchase (no gift cards).

Those who were members before April 1 will find something special in their account on Monday, too: either a free slice of cheesecake each month for a year, a free whole cheesecake, a free slice of cheesecake, $5 off $25 purchases, or $10 off $40 purchases. (All rewards redeemable by April 16; can be redeemed for dine-in, to-go and DoorDash.)

New merch from Dunkin', bonus points in app

Dunkin' announced it is going back to its roots and rebranding to just "Donuts'" on Monday, April 1. To celebrate the rebrand, the company is selling "Donuts'" merch, including sweatshirts that read "DONUTS," on ShopDunkin.com .

Additionally, Dunkin' Rewards members will receive 3x bonus points on any donut order through the mobile app on April 1.

Urban Outfitters launches 'Name Three Shirts' movement

Urban Outfitters said it is launching a global movement to "stand in solidarity against band-tee-shaming" by launching a new collection called "Name Three Shirts."

The t-shirt line "playfully mocks the gatekeeping attitudes of older generations who insist that band-shirt wearers should be required to name songs by those artists," the company said in a news release.

The line, which features revamped logos from bands such as The Grateful Dead, Joy Division and Led Zeppelin, is a "playful jab at the attitudes of older generations, and fights back against the misogynistic undertones of the infamous ‘name three songs’ line of questioning," Urban Outfitters said in the news release.

The collection of shirts is available online and in select Urban Outfitters stores starting April 1. You can shop the collection online here .

Auntie Anne's, Frontier Airlines collaborate on Pretzel Plane

Auntie Anne's pretzels and Frontier Airlines announced they have collaborated on the newest addition to Frontier's fleet: the Pretzel Plane.

According to a news release, the plane includes new in-flight entertainment featuring Auntie Anne's pretzels rolled seat-side, the "luxurious" smell of hot, fresh pretzels throughout the cabin and airplane-shaped pretzels if you're feeling hungry.

Moe's Southwest Grill, Sonic team up to introduce a Queso Slush

Two popular fast food chains announced a collaboration that is sure to be polarizing.

Moe's and Sonic announced a new beverage, the Queso Slush, a queso-flavored slushie. "The frozen goodness of a Sonic Slush meets the delicious flavor of Moe's queso."

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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Fools’ gold: the best April Fools’ Day travel pranks

You’re a savvy traveller – and you’d never have fallen for these tricks… Would you?

Pie in the sky

When Virgin Atlantic announced their Deluxe Pet Cabins on 1 April last year, the promise of check-in ‘doggy bags,’ designer pet hoodies and fire hydrant loos (perfect for leg-cocking) was tempting bait for animal lovers. Pampered pooches were promised air vents at every seat (to recreate that head-out-of-the-window feeling), digitally-rendered cats to chase via the inflight entertainment system, and a loyalty scheme for frequent fliers.

Travel websites and blogs lapped up the April Fools’ yarn, but they should have known better: Virgin Group founder Richard Branson has form. In April 1989 he flew across London in a hot air balloon disguised as a UFO. He was bound for Hyde park, but freak winds blew his craft off-course; he ended up floating over the M25, spooking motorists before eventually landing in Surrey.

Better yet, in 2006 Canadian carrier WestJet Airlines instructed its passengers to boost takeoff by flapping their arms – an innovative energy-saving technique, no? And in April two years later, it was announced that for just $12 Westjet passengers could bed-down in the overhead lockers, which had been converted into sleeper cabins so that travellers could, according to WestJet’s vice president of guest experience, “arrive at their destination [feeling] refreshed, rested, and ready to go.”

Far-flung fancies

The mysterious islands of San Serriffe were unveiled by the Guardian in 1977, in a seven-page destination guide that showcased the must-dos of this Indian Ocean archipelago. The two main islands, named Upper Caisse and Lower Caisse, boasted powder-white beaches and lush plantations, and were ruled by the charismatic General Pica. Of course, it was a load of hot air: many excited readers contacted the paper to see how they could book holidays, but others weren’t fooled by the printer terminology that permeated the flowery prose (Upper Case, geddit?).

David Attenborough also turned prankster in 1975, when he reported for a BBC Radio 3 documentary about the Sheba Islands – an exotic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. On 1 April he described his visits to the islands, and played recordings of the endemic musendrophilus, a singing tree mouse, and described a species whose webbed feet were used by locals as reeds for musical instruments.

Mythical beasts

In its April 1995 issue, science journal Discover reported on the discovery of the hotheaded naked ice borer: a species unique to Antarctica, identified by ‘highly respected’ wildlife biologist Dr Aprile Pazzo. The penguin-hunting hothead could bore through the ice at high speeds thanks to a scorching bone on its head that melted the ice. Dr Pazzo and the hotheads were, however, a figment of the editorial team’s imagination – although the prank apparently generated more readers’ mail than any other article they had ever published.

Years later, while filming wildlife series Miracles of Evolution in 2008, BBC camera crews returned with startling ‘footage’ of flying penguins. According to the BBC, adélie penguins flocked to the rainforests of South America, where they spent the winter basking in the tropical climes. The CGI video clip went viral – but would you have fallen for it? You can view the BBC flying penguins for yourself here…

Tourist traps

American tour operator Orbitz tried to pull the wool over its customers’ eyes last year with its ‘Two-day Time Travel Savings Exclusive’. The online April promotion included jaunts to 1960s America (staying at the Manhattan Hotel, New York), late 1800s Paris, and Egypt’s Royal Giza Suites circa 2540BC. The company didn’t reveal if any punters fell for the offers, but they did include in the small print that the holidays were ‘subject to the invention of an actual time machine’.

1972 was the centenary of Thomas Cook’s first round-the-world tour, so in April that year the London Times ran a full-page special offer (and editorial) from the eponymous travel agent: 1,000 lucky customers could follow in Cook’s footsteps for the price of the 1872 voyage – snapping up a round-the-world ticket for just 210 guineas/$575. Eager crowds queued up outside Thomas Cook offices to take advantage of the offer, and the paper was forced to print an apology – and the reporter, John Carter, was sacked.

Big-city bloopers

When Dick Smith – Australian millionaire, adventurer and owner of Dick Smith Foods – towed an Antarctic iceberg into Sydney Harbour on 1 April 1978, the public couldn’t get enough. He pledged to carve the berg into ice cubes (to be marketed under the name ‘Dicksicles’), and even welcomed some of Sydney’s most intrepid public onboard for a closer look. But then, it started to rain – and Smith’s ‘piece of Antarctica’ began to melt… It was reduced to a floating pile of white plastic sheets, shaving cream and firefighting foam.

In 1993, citizens of Cologne had their legs pulled in equally humiliating style: it was reported by local radio station Westdeutsche Rundfunk that officials were limiting the speed of the city’s joggers to 6mph. Runners in the park reduced their pace to ‘slow jog’, in fear of ‘disturbing the squirrels’ mating season’ – leaving the law-abiding exercisers red-faced for more reasons than one.

News that should have been a prank…

We were tickled to learn last week that Danish tour operator Spies Rejser is encouraging its customers to procreate while on holiday – in response to news that Denmark’s birth rate is falling. The campaign, entitled ‘Do it for Denmark’ claims that 10% of babies are conceived while couples are on holiday – so the company is offering an ‘ovulation discount’, and couples who can prove that their child was conceived while abroad will win baby supplies and a free family holiday.

Meanwhile, in North Korea, it has emerged that men must undergo state-sanctioned hair cuts to match the style of leader Kim Jung-un. Until now, both sexes have had a choice of haircuts – but this decree is set to stamp out individualism even further.

Travellers on board Samoa Air will be more concerned about their waistline: the airline was the first to introduce ‘pay-per-pound’ tickets for customers, after concerns about the space – and fuel – that its overweight clientèle require. Ouch.

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Are you traveling for July Fourth? Here's how to beat the travel rush.

Updated on: June 27, 2024 / 6:15 PM EDT / AP

The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and the travel rush is already heating up.

Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming holiday week. That will likely mean busy roads, as well as packed airports and train stations.

Motor club AAA projects that some 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles (80 kilometers) or more from their homes over a nine-day Independence Day travel period — surpassing pre-pandemic numbers for the U.S. holiday. And the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen over 32 million individuals in airports from this Thursday through July 8, up 5.4% from last year's numbers.

  • Here's how to save money on your Fourth of July barbecue

Are you traveling for the Fourth? Here's a rundown of what you need to know.

Smooth sailing for travel around any holiday is never a given. But avoiding the most hectic times, when others are rushing out of town, is a good way to start.

If you're traveling by car for the Fourth of July, it's best to hit the road in the morning, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Peak traffic congestion varies by location, INRIX data published by AAA shows, but the worst times to drive on, or leading up to, the holiday are generally between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Either way, be prepared for the roads to be jammed.

"Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal," Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a prepared statement.

July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, and many travelers will likely take Friday July 5th off to extend their trip into a four-day weekend. Drivers in large metro areas can expect the biggest delays on Wednesday July 3 and Sunday July 7 — as travelers leave and return to town, Pishue added.

And if you're renting a car ahead of July Fourth, the busiest pickup days will be Friday, Saturday and Wednesday before the holiday, AAA notes.

Airports will also likely be packed all week long — but the TSA expects most people will take to the skies on Friday.

It anticipates that it will screen more than 3 million individuals Friday. That would surpass the agency's current record for most people screened on a single day, which reached just under 3 million last Sunday.

"We expect this summer to be our busiest ever," TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, adding that travel typical peaks around Independence Day.

Last year, the busiest day for Fourth of July air travel was also the Friday ahead of the holiday, TSA data shows. If past trends hold, travel will likely be higher on the days before and after the Fourth — particularly closer to the weekend. In 2023, for example, more than 2 million people were screened on the Fourth, which landed on a Tuesday last year, down from 2.88 million the Friday before.

Flights can be delayed or canceled for an array of reasons — from plane-specific mechanical problems to major storms impacting popular travel paths.

If your flight is canceled, airlines are required to provide refunds for customers, even if the cancellation is due to weather. Delays are trickier, because they typically have to meet certain criteria for relief, such as refunds or compensation — but carriers will often give customers to chance to switch to alternative flights, if available, at no cost.

In April, the Biden administration issued final rules that include requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and "significant" delays. Those rules are set to take effect over the next two years, but the Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments each airline has made for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

It's better to be stuck at home than locked in hourslong traffic or stranded in an airport terminal. Before heading out the door this holiday week, do yourself a favor and check the status of your travel plans.

Was your flight, train or bus ride delayed? Are there are traffic incidents set to disrupt your drive? And what about the weather? A quick look through your itinerary — such as trip updates on a carrier's website — checking weather forecasts and monitoring traffic safety through services like the 511 hotline or your phone's navigation apps can go a long way toward avoiding travel misery.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

— Leave early: There are more people everywhere during a holiday week, so lines will be longer and roads will be busier. Give yourself more time to get to your destination or to make your way through airport security.

— Keep an eye on the weather — and not just for your destination: Look at the weather for your entire travel path. Even if it's sunny skies both at home and the place you're headed, it's important to keep an eye out for any storms in between. You may need to do some rerouting.

— Be kind: A trip delay or cancellation can be really frustrating — but if you're running into disruptions, chances are others are too. Customer service agents have a lot on their plate at this time of year, and it's important to be patient and respectful as they try to help you.

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Here's the 1 Thing UPS and FedEx Investors Need to Look Out For in 2024

July 04, 2024 — 04:06 am EDT

Written by Lee Samaha for The Motley Fool  ->

UPS (NYSE: UPS) and FedEx (NYSE: FDX) are attractive stocks but continue facing volume and pricing challenges in 2024. That said, there's evidence to suggest that they are overcoming these issues, and they could both have excellent second halves of the calendar year. Here's why.

The U.S. small package market is at overcapacity

Like much of the economy, the package delivery market has had highly unusual dynamics in recent years. UPS management expressed this during its Investor Day presentation in late March, describing the market as laid out in the table below.

From 2018 to 2020, there was a normal period of excess capacity in the market, which was good for meeting demand spikes and keeping customers happy without resorting to the expensive purchase of third-party transportation. However, demand surged due to the lockdowns, and supply struggled to grow as the same lockdowns caused capacity restraints.

Fast-forward to the current situation, and there's now an average daily volume (ADV) oversupply of 12 million as consumers normalized behavior, the economy slowed, and supply came back online.

Data source: UPS presentations; notes by author.

As such, the big question is, what risk is there to FedEx's and UPS' growth plans from oversupply? Oversupply creates weak pricing that ultimately leads to margin and earnings disappointments.

This is a particular issue for UPS because its three-year plan calls for adjusted operating profit to grow from $9.9 billion in 2023 to at least $14.3 billion in 2026, with the bulk of the profit increase coming from growth in revenue per piece.

It's a concern, but there are three reasons to believe both transportation companies can work through this period and achieve their financial targets.

Packages being delivered.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Package delivery volumes are improving

First, as the chart demonstrates, the decline in volume growth is moderating. FedEx management recently said it sees demand and volumes improving from here. Regarding its U.S. domestic package volume, UPS management said it expected "a little bit of a slight tick up in positive volume in the second quarter" in April.

If package delivery volumes continue to grow, this will help reduce the market's overcapacity.

FedEx and UPS average daily volumes.

Data source: UPS and FedEx presentations. *FedEx numbers are adjusted to the nearest UPS quarter. YOY=year-over-year growth.

2. E-commerce deliveries are coming back

Another positive sign is FedEx management's belief that e-commerce growth was coming back. FedEx expects its revenue to grow at a low-single-to-mid-single-digit rate in its current financial year, which ends at the end of May 2025. The assumptions behind this guidance were listed as yield expansion (more on that in a moment), global industrial production growth, and growth in domestic e-commerce.

The pickup in e-commerce growth is a good sign because it indicates that consumers are starting to normalize behavior after a period of spending on things like travel and services that they couldn't do during the pandemic lockdowns.

3. Pricing and yield are still positive

Considering the market's overcapacity and both companies experiencing the worst issue in 2024, the current pricing data suggests they are handling it well. FedEx talked of a "competitive but rational" pricing environment. Indeed, FedEx's revenue per package increased in its most recent quarter, as did its overall company revenue per package.

UPS' U.S. domestic revenue per piece (and its overall revenue per piece) was slightly negative in its first quarter, but management believes it will improve through the year as fuel prices and its fuel surcharge increase.

UPS and FedEx revenue per package.

Stocks to buy

FedEx and UPS investors will eagerly await UPS' upcoming second-quarter earnings report on July 23. If the results confirm U.S. domestic package volume growth and an improvement in revenue per piece, it will go a long way toward convincing investors that the pricing environment is solid and the industry's overcapacity is being chipped away at. That would be bullish for both stocks.

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Planning on traveling for the Fourth of July holiday? Here’s how to avoid the rush

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FILE - Motorists head southbound in the local and express lanes on Interstates 90-94 in slow and thickening traffic as a CTA train enters a station on the first day of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, July 1, 2022, in Chicago. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)

FILE - Travelers walk with their luggage through Union Station in Washington ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, July 1, 2023. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough, File)

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NEW YORK (AP) — The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and the travel rush is already heating up.

Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming holiday week. That will likely mean busy roads, as well as packed airports and train stations.

Motor club AAA projects that some 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles (80 kilometers) or more from their homes over a nine-day Independence Day travel period — surpassing pre-pandemic numbers for the U.S. holiday. And the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen over 32 million individuals in airports from this Thursday through July 8, up 5.4% from last year’s numbers.

Are you traveling for the Fourth? Here’s a rundown of what you need to know.

When is the best time to hit the road for July Fourth?

Smooth sailing for travel around any holiday is never a given. But avoiding the most hectic times, when others are rushing out of town, is a good way to start.

If you’re traveling by car for the Fourth of July, it’s best to hit the road in the morning, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Peak traffic congestion varies by location, INRIX data published by AAA shows, but the worst times to drive on, or leading up to, the holiday are generally between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Either way, be prepared for the roads to be jammed.

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“Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a prepared statement.

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July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, and many travelers will likely take Friday July 5th off to extend their trip into a four-day weekend. Drivers in large metro areas can expect the biggest delays on Wednesday July 3 and Sunday July 7 — as travelers leave and return to town, Pishue added.

And if you’re renting a car ahead of July Fourth, the busiest pickup days will be Friday, Saturday and Wednesday before the holiday, AAA notes.

When will airports be busiest?

Airports will also likely be packed all week long — but the TSA expects most people will take to the skies on Friday.

It anticipates that it will screen more than 3 million individuals Friday. That would surpass the agency’s current record for most people screened on a single day, which reached just under 3 million last Sunday.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, adding that travel typical peaks around Independence Day.

Last year, the busiest day for Fourth of July air travel was also the Friday ahead of the holiday, TSA data shows. If past trends hold, travel will likely be higher on the days before and after the Fourth — particularly closer to the weekend. In 2023, for example, more than 2 million people were screened on the Fourth, which landed on a Tuesday last year, down from 2.88 million the Friday before.

What should I do if my flight is delayed or canceled?

Flights can be delayed or canceled for an array of reasons — from plane-specific mechanical problems to major storms impacting popular travel paths.

If your flight is canceled, airlines are required to provide refunds for customers, even if the cancellation is due to weather . Delays are trickier, because they typically have to meet certain criteria for relief, such as refunds or compensation — but carriers will often give customers to chance to switch to alternative flights, if available, at no cost.

In April, the Biden administration issued final rules that include requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and “significant” delays. Those rules are set to take effect over the next two years, but the Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments each airline has made for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

Always check your itinerary before leaving home

It’s better to be stuck at home than locked in hourslong traffic or stranded in an airport terminal. Before heading out the door this holiday week, do yourself a favor and check the status of your travel plans.

Was your flight, train or bus ride delayed? Are there are traffic incidents set to disrupt your drive? And what about the weather? A quick look through your itinerary — such as trip updates on a carrier’s website — checking weather forecasts and monitoring traffic safety through services like the 511 hotline or your phone’s navigation apps can go a long way toward avoiding travel misery.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

— Leave early: There are more people everywhere during a holiday week, so lines will be longer and roads will be busier. Give yourself more time to get to your destination or to make your way through airport security.

— Keep an eye on the weather — and not just for your destination: Look at the weather for your entire travel path. Even if it’s sunny skies both at home and the place you’re headed, it’s important to keep an eye out for any storms in between. You may need to do some rerouting.

— Be kind: A trip delay or cancellation can be really frustrating — but if you’re running into disruptions, chances are others are too. Customer service agents have a lot on their plate at this time of year, and it’s important to be patient and respectful as they try to help you.

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