The holidays usually conjure thoughts of warm, intimate times with family and friends. However, these thoughts typically overlook the journey to the destination. If you’re not hosting the holiday gathering, the odds are that you have to travel to get there. If that’s the case, it’s best to know what you’re up against.
Anyone who has ever traveled during the holidays knows how stressful it can be. From packing to organizing travel to the airport to flying, getting to your destination during the holidays can require an incredible amount of patience.
Fortunately, when it comes to holiday travel, a little planning goes a long way. So sit back, take a breath, and read these tips on how to reduce stress during your holiday travels.
Be Prepared
If you know you will be taking a long flight, download all of your favorite podcasts, music, and reading materials to your phone or tablet. Do this before leaving your house or apartment so you have time to select things that are of interest to you.
Having something to focus on will take a bit of the edge off during the flight. Even if you’re not flying, there’s nothing better for a long drive than a good podcast and catchy tunes.
If you’re traveling with children, things can be a little more complicated. However, the same rules apply. Having an activity bag with various games and toys that can keep them entertained will keep you and all the other passengers happy.
Book an Early Flight
Avoid potential delays by booking an early flight. Airport delays are more likely to occur as the day wears on, so flying early is a great way to ensure you actually get to your destination on time.
It will also give you an early start, so you have more of the day ahead of you. After all, you will probably sleep more restfully once you arrive at your destination and all that travel is behind you.
Book a Direct Flight
If possible, a direct flight is always the way to go. Nothing makes traveling more unpredictable than the dreaded layover. Fortunately, you can avoid them entirely by spending the extra cash to fly directly to your destination. If a layover is unavoidable, try to strategize so that you wind up somewhere relaxing.
Avoid Checked Bags
Checked bags increase the time spent at the airport and can lead to more unpredictability. If feasible, try to limit your travel items to a single carry-on. Doing this will enable you to walk right off the plane to your transportation without wasting valuable time waiting for a bag to drop.
Leave Early
One of the main reasons holiday travel is so stressful is the volume of people traveling at the same time. This is why it is always a good idea to leave early and give yourself plenty of time to get through security. And if you follow the other suggestions, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained if you have more time than anticipated.
Have a Stress-Free Holiday
Now that you have some tips on eliminating the stress that comes with holiday travel, you’re ready for a fun-filled holiday season!
