Lessen Your Travel Stress This Holiday Season

Whether air or land, November and December are two of the busiest travel months of the year, and if you’re one of the millions of people who hit the road or fly to visit family for the holidays, you know how stressful it can be.  Of course, anytime you travel you may run into problems that are out of your control (flights delayed due to weather, traffic backups on highways due to accidents, and more), but with some advanced planning and a lot of patience, you can make your journey a little easier.

Below are a few tips to lessen your holiday travel stress.

Watch flight prices. If you fly often, checking flight prices is probably already second nature. If you only fly occasionally, start checking prices as soon as you confirm your plans (flying around the holidays can be very expensive). Price is important when booking a flight, but other things are important, too—whether it’s a day or night flight, renting a car versus having someone pick you up at the airport, and the airline’s checked bag policy. Some airlines like Southwest offer passengers two free bags (most require that you check larger bags and charge a fee of $25 per bag).  

Get to the airport early. The general rule is to get to the airport two hours before your flight leaves. This allows you plenty of time to go through security, find your gate, and generally get settled in before takeoff.  Sometimes flights do leave earlier than scheduled, so if you’re at the airport well in advance, you’re ready to go.

Be aware of your surroundings.  You should take the same safety precautions in an airport that you would in any other public place.  Never leave your purse or carry-

on unattended; never give your personal information to anyone (the only ones who should ask for any type of personal information are the TSA agents at the security checkpoint and everything they need is on your ID), and be aware of those around you.

Pack accordingly.  Airlines have gotten stricter with their luggage regulations. There is a 50 pound weight limit on checked bags for domestic flights, so try to weigh your bag before you leave (otherwise you may have to repack!) And if you’re planning to pack Christmas gifts, consider ordering them online and having them shipped to your destination, or if there’s time, shop for last-minute items when you get to your destination.

Have your documents ready.  If you’re traveling within the U.S., you’ll need to have a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, military ID, or passport. If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need to show a photo ID and have a valid passport. (Children under the age of 16, even babies, must have their own passports to fly internationally).

  

If you’re traveling internationally, add some extra peace of mind with a travel medical and international health insurance policy, which will cover you should you get sick or injured while out of the country.  Most regular health insurance plans will only cover a portion of your costs (if that), and so purchasing a plan specifically for traveling abroad will give you the coverage you need.

Do you drive a long distance or fly during the holidays? What are some other tips you’d add? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!