The holiday season is here and whether you’re planning a Christmas visit to Grandma’s, a theme park vacation, or a visit to the sunny Caribbean, there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
Pack as light as you can. If you are flying, the best scenario is to avoid checking any bags if possible. You will save time by not waiting for your checked bag to show up, and don’t have to worry about your luggage going to a different destination than you. But that’s not always possible, especially when traveling during cold weather season – and likely with a few gifts as well. If you’re checking a bag, then be sure to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on for “just in case”. In addition, make sure anything truly important – like medications, or anything that is valuable – is also in your carry-on. And if you must check a bag and want to make sure you know where it is, consider adding an Apple AirTag so you can track it’s location.
Plan your road trip wisely. Does heavy traffic stress you out? Plan some alternative drives that are more scenic – it may take a bit longer but if everyone arrives happy, that’s a win, right? Break up long drives with some interesting stops along the way. Time your trip for “off-peak” days, or times of the day. Think about if you’ll be arriving near a major city around rush hour – and try to plan not to do that if possible. And consider early-morning or late-night departures when the kids can sleep for a more peaceful drive – for everyone.
Avoid getting hangry. Most holiday travel, whether by air or land, is focused on getting where you want to go as quickly and easily as possible. So eating is often a bit of an afterthought: “We will grab something along the way”. But what if nothing is available when your stomach is insisting to be fed? Planning ahead with some snacks and drinks solves the hangry potential and helps keep everyone – both kids and grownups – happy. Don’t overlook this for your flights as well. (Just remember you can’t bring liquids over 3 oz. through security.)
Kindness matters. It’s a tough time to be a flight attendant or TSA agent, and during the busy holiday season it’s even harder. They deal with a lot of frustrated and even angry people daily. Don’t let any of your travel frustrations spill over – be nice, smile, and have a kind word for the folks that are helping you get to where you are going.
Don’t sweat the small stuff. Assume that at some point, something will go wrong. You’ll miss a turn, your flight will be delayed, the kids will get cranky, or your seatmate on the plane will snore. Whatever it is, just remember this line from one of my favorite Christmas movies, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation – “it’s all part of the experience”! (And it will make for a great story over the years.)
Happy Holidays and happy travels!
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