Kempf - Driving versus flying -- which is better

During a recent interview with a local television station, I was asked: "Is it more affordable to drive or fly to your vacation destination?" Obviously there is not an exact answer, but it is a relevant question for every traveler.

Time

Time is the most important consideration. How much of it do you have? How valuable is your time? If you are in business obviously time is money. Most corporate travelers want to get from point A to point B, complete their transaction and get home.

For the leisure traveler, this question is not so easily answered. For the retired traveler, driving is often the most sensible way to go; however, for the person with only a week's vacation that comes once a year, the time factor may have more value.

In short, flying is quicker and more direct and driving takes longer. Take a moment to put a value on your time and think about how you want to be spending it. If you enjoy the drive and it is not a burden or unpleasant experience, and if you can stop and enjoy your time in the car, then driving can be a pleasure.

However, I am reminded of our annual family trek from Portland, Ore., to my grandfather's farm in Hettinger, N.D., every summer. I'm sure I am not the only child to suffer kidney damage from these non-stop drives. My father would put a determined look on his face and we didn't stop until he reached his goal. If he had been leading the children of Israel to the promised land, it would have taken 40 minutes not 40 years.

If you are traveling with children in a car, remember: they get bored before you have even backed out of the driveway. "Are we there yet?" I remember my mother would ask for a divorce every year sometime between Butte and Billings, Mon.

Cost

There is a lot of debate on which is less expensive -- to fly or drive to a destination. When you drive, you need to really analyze the cost. Things to factor in are the wear and tear on your vehicle, a breakdown or flat tire, gas, food, accommodations along the way, and if you are traveling with children -- the "stress load" time in a car.

Everytime you stop for gas, remember cost of sodas, snacks and souveniers. Flying can often be more affordable.

Safety

Statistics show you are safer in an airplane than on our national highways. If the media displayed car accidents as they do the rare airplane mishaps, you'd never drive again. Flying is the safer option.

Options

There are other options besides driving and flying. There are numerous escorted tours out of our area. They range from three to 14 days on luxurious motorcoaches, and there are request stops and the ability to see numerous sights along the way. Amtrak is another way to travel that I find enjoyable. This is a delightful way to read, enjoy coffee and watch the world pass by in full color. Amtrak can be both affordable and exciting. You can also mix up your travel -- train one way, flight home, or vise versa.

In closing, there is no exact answer to which is better -- flying or driving -- because it depends on your needs. A good travel consultant can help you weigh your options.

Carolyn Kempf is president of Elite Travel in Cape Girardeau. (334-1234, 1-800-999-6003 or elitetravelinc.com)