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!
Traveling can be exciting, but the packing and logistics can be a real drag. Who wants to spend their precious vacation time worrying? Vacation is the time to relax and enjoy. Here’s three simple hacks I use to make traveling a breeze:
Ditch the Boring Black Bag
Let's face it, everyone has a black suitcase. It's like a sea of black rolling through the airport, making it a nightmare to spot your own bag. Invest in a vibrant, colorful suitcase that stands out! Not only will it be easier to identify on the baggage carousel, but it will also inject some personality into your travels. Think bright blues, cheerful yellows, or even a fun print. Your luggage will be your personal travel beacon, and you'll never have to worry about it getting lost again. I love my pink and teal luggage because it really stands out.
Pack Smart with Compression Bags
Imagine this: you're finally at your destination, ready to relax, but your suitcase is a jumbled mess of clothes. Sounds like a recipe for stress, right? Enter compression bags - your new best friend for organized packing. These clever little bags allow you to compress clothes and save tons of space in your luggage. Bonus: they also keep your belongings organized and wrinkle-free. Fold your clothes neatly, seal them in the bag, creating a compact package. This hack will not only save space, but it will also make packing and unpacking a breeze.
Stay Hydrated with a Collapsible Water Bottle
Lugging around a bulky water bottle can be a real pain, especially when you're trying to navigate busy airports or explore new cities. The solution? Collapsible water bottles! These lightweight marvels shrink down to a compact size when empty, making them easy to carry in your backpack or purse. They're also eco-friendly and reusable, which means you can say goodbye to single-use plastic bottles and contribute to a greener planet. Stay hydrated and worry-free with a trusty collapsible water bottle by your side.
These three simple hacks can make a world of difference in your travel experience. No more stress about lost luggage, messy bags, or bulky water bottles. I got the two-pack with a pink water bottle for me and a blue one for my son and we love how easy they are to bring along when traveling.
Now you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your adventures and creating unforgettable memories. So, pack smart, stay organized, and get ready to explore!
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