Holiday travel can often feel like navigating a maze of obstacles, where each turn presents a new challenge to overcome. The bustle of this festive season sees airports swelling with passengers, roadways clogged with cars, and travel expenses soaring higher than ever. Add to that the unpredictability of winter weather, and even the jolliest traveler can find themselves channeling their inner Scrooge.

Despite these challenges, holiday travel doesn’t have to be synonymous with stress. With a bit of foresight and planning, it’s possible to ease the journey and keep the holiday spirit alive. Here, we’ve compiled a series of tips and tricks to ensure your holiday travel is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Book Your Travel Early

Most of us bemoan holiday travel due to the added costs involved. You’ll save yourself the inevitable sticker shock if you book your holiday travels early. See if you can find round-trip flights for off-peak travel days. In doing so, you may find more even more deals. If not, at least you have a wider variety of flights and rooms to choose from. Each day you wait can mean more money and a worse seat on that already full flight. And believe us, there’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable on a flight. 

Ship Gifts Ahead of Time

Packing gifts creates one giant headache during holiday travel. If you wrap them, security might make you unwrap that gift for Aunt Susan to see what’s inside. In addition to being rifled through at airport security, gifts also take up precious space in your luggage. If you’re packing mostly bulky winter clothes, there isn’t always room for gifts. Save yourself the stress by shipping gifts ahead of time. You’ll eliminate the weight in your luggage and the worry of getting everything there in one piece.

Stay Healthy

Arriving sick at Uncle Bob’s house or catching a cold in the airport during holiday travel is enough to ruin any holiday dinner. There are several things you can do to minimize your chances of getting sick around the holidays. Start by eating well in the weeks leading up to your travels. Exercise regularly and get your appropriate vaccinations. On your travel days, wash your hands often with soap and water and resist touching your eyes, mouth, nose, and ears.

Purchase a Day Pass to an Airline Lounge

Most airlines have lounges to which you can purchase a day pass. Airports around the holidays often feature annoying crowds. While airline lounges can also crowd up, you’ll at least find more comfortable seating, more convenient charging locations, and have access to complimentary food and drink. Treat yourself and make the extra time you have to spend at the airport more relaxing.

Going by Car? Get a Tune-Up!

Some people skip the chaos of the airport and travel by car instead of plane during the holidays. Rather than having that ill-timed breakdown on the way to grandma’s house, take your car in for a tune-up now. You should have a mechanic check your tires, breaks, oil, heating system, and anything else that might be a concern when driving a considerable distance in potentially wintry conditions.

Fly Early in the Morning

There are three reasons to take an early morning flight. First, you avoid the crowds at the gates and security lines. One of the most stressful travel moments is when you’re stuck in a long line as your boarding time draws near. It puts you in a true panic.

The second reason to travel early in the day is the discounts. A flight that leaves at five or six in the morning costs a lot less than one at eight or nine. Also, an early flight might be a direct flight instead of a one with a connection. The third reason is a less crowded plane. Though early flights might cost less, people often decide to pay more to get some extra sleep. This means you get a flight where you might not have to share a row with others.

Use Online Check-In

Even if you take an early morning flight, the check-in line can be huge when there often aren’t enough customer service agents to handle everyone. The solution here is using online check-in. You enter your name on the airline’s website, notify them if you have any luggage to check-in, and submit. You receive an email or text with the bar or QR code needed to get on the plane. Then, the only thing you need to do at the airport is to place your baggage on the belt and head toward security.

Keep Moving

You’re about to spend a significant amount of time sitting in a tiny chair on an airplane. Take advantage of any time you have before your flight to get your circulation going. Most of the large airports across the globe feature eating and shopping establishments in the main terminal and the gates. Many airports these days are the equivalent of a shopping mall with a food court, brand-name restaurants, and high-end stores. Even if you aren’t planning on spending too much, it doesn’t hurt to move around or treat yourself to a cup of coffee.

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Find Ways To Relax

Since travelers are often stressed, airports are giving travelers more opportunities for rest and relaxation. For example, some airports have gyms in the main terminal or at the gates. While not as grand as regular gyms, they’ll still have machines that allow you to sweat off the stress. Another relaxation method provided is in-airport spas. Here, you can receive a quick massage, manicure, facial, or other calming treatment.

Also, keep in mind that many airports these days feature sleep pods. If you have a long layover, or simply want to get away from the crowds, these sleep pods provide the opportunity to relax, de-stress, and take a break from your holiday travel. 

FAQs:

Q: What are some of the best ways to avoid holiday traffic when driving?
A: Try to leave early in the morning or late in the evening when the roads are less congested. Use navigation apps to check for real-time traffic updates and plan alternative routes if necessary. Avoid peak travel days, like the day before a major holiday.

Q: How can I keep kids entertained during holiday travel?
A: Bring along books, travel-friendly games, and downloaded movies or shows on a tablet. Snacks are essential, and consider small surprises to keep them excited. Let them pack a “fun bag” with their favorite items.

Q: What’s an easy way to pack for unpredictable holiday weather?
A: Pack layers that can be adjusted for changing temperatures. Include a lightweight waterproof jacket and versatile shoes. Use compression bags to save space, especially if packing bulky sweaters or coats.

Q: How can I save money on parking at the airport?
A: Book your parking spot online in advance can be cheaper. Consider off-site parking lots that provide shuttles to the airport. Check if rideshares or public transportation are more cost-effective alternatives.

Q: What’s a good strategy for staying hydrated during holiday travel?
A: Bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it up at airport fountains. Drink water regularly, especially on long flights, and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

Q: Are there any tips for avoiding lost luggage during holiday travel?
A: Use a luggage tracker or AirTag to monitor your bag’s location. Keep essentials like medications and a change of clothes in your carry-on. Ensure your bag has a visible name tag and remove any old flight tags.

Q: How can I avoid long lines at rental car counters?
A: Enroll in a rental company’s rewards program to skip the line. Book in advance and use mobile check-in if available. Consider smaller or off-airport rental locations for shorter wait times.

Do you have any suggestions about ways to relax during holiday travel? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!