Surviving Holiday Travel
Surviving holiday travel can be a wild ride, but a few tips can help keep it stress-free (or at least manageable)! Typically, the thought of the holiday travel season can raise your blood pressure. However, your stress level can decrease with a few tips and planning for your trip.Â
Book Early
Let’s begin with modes of transportation and accommodations. The key is to book early and strategically. We all know the price of flights increases closer to the busiest travel and holiday dates. Also, hotel reservations fill quickly, and rates go up. So, you should book flights, hotels, and rentals well in advance to get better deals and secure your preferred options. Check your travel credit cards to use points to book flights and possibly reserve hotel rooms.Â
When choosing your flights, pick non-peak times such as early morning or late night to avoid the holiday travel crowds. If you can get a nonstop or direct flight, it will reduce layover stress. Purchase travel insurance for coverage in case of unforeseen issues.
Be Flexible
Be flexible with timing. A good rule of thumb is to avoid peak travel days, such as the day before or the weekend after a major holiday. Consider traveling a day or two later or earlier to avoid crowds and additional stress. Also, it gives you some leeway if there are delays or inclement weather. Airlines do their best to be on time with departures and arrivals, but nature doesn’t always cooperate.
Packing Light and Smart
Surviving holiday travel means packing smart and as light as possible. People travel with gift-packed suitcases, kids, pets, and the kitchen sink. Use a carry-on to skip baggage claim delays and avoid lost luggage issues. Packing cubes can help to maximize space and keep your essentials organized.
Remember to pack a holiday survival kit with snacks, a reusable water bottle, a phone charger, and travel-sized toiletries in case of delays. Also, if you take prescription medications, pack them in a carry-on bag. Keep important documents like your ID, passport, visa, and credit cards on your person.
Purchase Your Travel Essentials
Prepare for Security Checks
If you are a regular traveler, you know the security check routine. Security lines are rarely short! It’s still amazing that many people are unprepared with the proper documentation. You must have an ID and a boarding pass, which can be paper or electronic. Empty your water bottle! Wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on. Pat down your pockets to ensure there’s nothing in them to set off the alarms.Â
Download Key Apps
Another surviving holiday travel tip is to download valuable apps. Use airline and airport apps for real-time flight alerts and updates, gate changes, and security wait times. Consider downloading navigation apps and a map of your layover airport to locate food spots, restrooms, or other essential locations. Don’t forget to download the hotel app, too.
Prepare for Delays
We all wish for smooth delays, but being prepared is essential. Always pack an extra change of clothes. Carry a travel blanket or pillow if stuck in an airport longer than planned. Download your favorite music, movies, or books for offline access because Wi-Fi can be spotty in some airports. Remember to have all prescribed medications in your carry-on bag if you’re delayed or stuck overnight in an airport.
Self-Care and Health
The holidays are the busiest travel times of the year. It’s challenging to remain stress-free, but stress can be reduced. You must prioritize sleep, stay hydrated, and avoid too much alcohol and caffeine. Traveling takes much physical and emotional energy. Keep your circulation going to reduce stiffness by occasionally stretching your legs, especially on long flights. While in the airport, take brief walks. You can get in steps by walking through the airport terminals. Or find a quiet spot to meditate if you need a calm moment.
Remain Positive and Relaxed
Surviving holiday travel means staying positive and as relaxed as possible. Delays and mishaps occur during the holidays and any other day. Staying positive can make it easier to handle the unpredictable. Practice deep breathing or meditation to help you stay calm. Keep in mind positive thoughts that you’re on your way to see and celebrate with loved ones. Remember the goal and make it to your destination safely to enjoy the holiday season.
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