Tips to Avoid the Stress of Holiday Travel

I have heard no fewer than three news reports today that this holiday season will be the busiest travel time in history! That is a lot of people struggling with stress and chaos at the same time. Here are practical tips to make your holiday travel easier and less stressful:

 

Choose Flexible Travel Dates:

• If possible, flying and driving on less popular days can be more affordable and less crowded.

Pack Light and Smart:

• Pack only what you need and choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
• Consider using packing cubes to keep your belongings organized.
• If you can, pack in a carry-on to avoid lost luggage and the delays of waiting at baggage claim.

Download Travel Apps:

• Download airline and travel apps for real-time updates on flight statuses, gate changes, baggage claim information and any other travel alerts.
• Have electronic copies of your boarding passes, hotel reservations, and other important documents.

Arrive Early at the Airport:

Arriving early allows you to account for potential delays, long security lines, and unexpected issues.
It reduces stress and gives you time to relax before your flight.

Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks:

• Airplane cabins can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water before and during your flight.
• Pack healthy snacks to avoid being hangry, especially if you encounter delays or long waits.

Entertainment and Comfort:

• Bring headphones, a tablet, a good book, or other forms of entertainment to make the journey more enjoyable for you and your kids.
• Consider a travel pillow for added comfort during long flights or layovers.
• Avoid bringing blankets and large pillows and they are bulky and frustrating to carry.

Inform Someone About Your Plans:

• Share your itinerary with a friend or family member so that someone knows your travel plans and can reach you in case of an emergency.

Expect bumps in the road:

• Expect the unexpected and be patient with delays, long lines, and crowded spaces.
• Keep a positive attitude, and try to focus on the excitement of your holiday destination.
• Focus on enjoying the people you are with and knowing the frustrations will be temporary.

I wish you the most enjoyable Thanksgiving with friends, family!