10 Tips For Surviving the Holiday Travel Season

BY: SHANNON MORRIS

Thanksgiving has come and gone and the holiday travel season is in full swing. Millions of people are going to be traveling to various parts of the country to visit loved ones and to take some much needed vacation time. If you're one of these road warriors, we want you to be prepared. Here are some of our favorite last minute holiday travel tips that will get you through the next few weeks.

BEFORE YOU GO

tips for surviving the holiday travel season

1. Check the Weather Forecast

This is a MUST-DO before you even start thinking about packing. The weather changes all the time and you want to be as prepared as possible when you’re away from your entire wardrobe.

Take a few seconds to check the weather of your destination and see if you’ll need to pack a pair of rain boots and an umbrella for your trip. You’ll thank us later when you’re not drenched waiting outside the airport!

2. Pack Smart

Learn how to fold and pack your clothes like a pro. You’ll save a ton of space in your carry on and avoid paying checked bag fees: win-win! We know you can’t leave your favorite skirt or blouse behind, so we found this easy-to-follow video guide to help us all be efficient packers this holiday season. Don’t forget to save room for toiletries like soap and toothpaste!

Video Credit: YouTube, Von Malegowski

Pro Tip: Take a picture of everything you pack so you don’t forget or lose anything when you’re packing up to go home.

3. Plan Ahead

If you’re going to the airport or train station, make sure to figure out how you will get there (e.g. public transportation, rideshare, etc) and give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport and go through security. No need to miss your flight over some traffic! If possible carpool with a friend - you both save some money and help the environment!

holiday travel season snack

4. Pack Snacks

Don’t forget to pack a healthy snack like trail mix to bring with you on your journey. Make your own or stop by your local grocery for your favorite.

There’s nothing worse than being on a plane or train for several hours without any food. And don’t even remind me about the time it takes to deplane, collect your baggage, leave the airport and - finally - reach your destination. Bring some snacks - your future self will thank you and be less hangry!

EN ROUTE

5. De-stress

You made it! You arrived at the airport (or train station) on time, managed to get through security in less than 30 minutes, and you had time to visit the lady's room before boarding. Take some much-needed me time at the beginning of your journey and allow yourself to de-stress from the craziness that is traveling. Whether you fall asleep with your neck pillow or cozy up with your favorite book, you deserve to kick back and relax while the pilots get you to your destination safely. 

6. Comfy Counts

Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes on the plane or train. You’ll be going through security and sitting in one place for hours on end, so stay away from uncomfortable and hard-to-take-off shoes like thigh high boots. Throw on your favorite leggings or athleisure gear, and you’re ready for a comfy journey.

Pro Tip: Bring a small throw blanket and full size pillow. It makes the airline seat much more bearable and you'll be able to fall asleep in no time!

7. Stay Entertained

Chances are you have several electronic devices with you. Make sure you load them with enough movies, TV shows, and music to last the entire trip, plus a few hours for unexpected delays.

holiday travel season music headphones playlist
Pro Tip: If you have your own TV screen on the plane, find something to watch using the airline's line-up. Save your collection for when you end up sitting in traffic for 3 hours!

8. Keep Charged

Stay connected and keep your battery full with a small, portable battery charger. It is hands down one of the best things to keep with you at all times, even when you're in your hometown. No need to close your apps and turn the brightness down on your screen - with a portable battery charger, you’ll always be connected!

ARRIVAL

holiday travel season fashion taxi

9. Easy Pickup

When you arrive at the airport or train/bus station, hopefully you have a ride waiting to pick you up. If your folks are free, they can easily pick you up and welcome you home. But, there are always other alternatives like public transportation, rideshares, and taxis. You’ll definitely find your way home!

10. Freshen Up

Whether you’re staying at a hotel or at your childhood home, the first place to visit is the restroom to freshen up. After hours of traveling and sitting in a plane or train, you may not feel or smell your best. So, head to the bathroom and wash up a bit and try to get the dreaded off so you can spend time with your loved ones.

Now, You're Ready for Your Holiday Travels

Follow these easy tips and you’re guaranteed to have a smooth and stress-free travel experience this holiday season! Remember to check in to your flight and leave plenty of room for second helpings and dessert! Safe travels and happy holidays!



1 Response

Svet
Svet

December 05, 2017

Wonderfully informative! Especially the part about checking the weather, there’s an old British saying, “there’s so such thing as bad weather, just poor wardrobe choices.”

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