The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and travel. Whether you're visiting family, going on a winter getaway, or exploring a new destination, holiday travel can be both exciting and overwhelming. With crowded airports, packed roads, and potential weather delays, preparing for holiday travel requires a little extra planning. Here’s some tips to help you navigate the hustle and bustle of holiday travel with ease.
The earlier you book your travel arrangements, the better. Flights, trains, and hotels fill up fast during the holiday season, and prices can skyrocket if you wait until the last minute. If possible, try to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance to lock in better rates.Be prepared for the possibility of delays or cancellations, especially if you're traveling during peak travel days like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Eve. Consider choosing flights with flexible cancellation policies or travel insurance that covers disruptions.
Holiday travel typically peaks in the middle of the day or early evening. To avoid the largest crowds and find cheaper tickets, consider flying early in the morning or late at night. These off-peak times often mean shorter lines, less congestion, and a quieter airport experience.
Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of travel, especially when you're bringing gifts or holiday gear like coats and boots. To avoid overpacking, create a packing list and start packing early and use compression cubes to stay neat and organized. If you're bringing holiday gifts, consider shipping them ahead of time to save space in your luggage. I would caution against wrapping your presents because TSA might need to inspect them.
Holiday travel and winter weather often go hand in hand. Snowstorms, icy roads, and fog can cause delays and cancellations, especially in colder climates. Before leaving, check weather forecasts for your destination, and allow extra time for travel in case you encounter delays.
Whether you're traveling by air, rail, or road, staying informed is key to reducing stress and avoiding unnecessary headaches. Download travel apps for your airline, train company, or car rental service to receive real-time updates on delays or cancellations.
Get on TSA Precheck or Global Entry to save so much time and stress. You go through the lines faster and don’t have to take your shoes off or electronics out of their bags. It is probably the best travel investment I’ve made. I wrote another blog about it here.
The holiday season is also flu season, and crowded airports and public transport hubs can be a breeding ground for germs. I like to take Vitamin C and D to keep my immune system healthy. Always wash your hands regularly and I carry hand sanitizer on me just in case. .
Lastly, remember that travel is part of the holiday experience. While things may not always go according to plan, try to enjoy the journey. So, embrace the holiday chaos with a smile, and remember that it's all part of the adventure!
Happy Holidays and Safe Travels!
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