Holiday Travel Tips

While there's always the potential for weather delays, snarled traffic and grumpy fellow travelers, these handy holiday travel tips will help you prepare before heading out the front door. These tips can help reduce stress levels and keep the festive spirit alive, so your holiday is more about the vacation, not the travel.

Beat the Rush—Book Early

Whether you're heading for an outdoor adventure on snow-covered slopes, a break from the cold on sunny beaches, or just spending time with family and friends in your hometown, you'll need a place to stay. The holidays are, as expected, busy with travelers who need a place to stay. And the longer you wait, the more expensive the stay and the less likely you'll secure a spot. Plan ahead to beat the rush by booking your hotel reservations early—it’s never too soon to book rooms at the busiest holiday destinations. Booking far in advance makes for a little less holiday stress and could help you to get the lowest price possible.

Pack like a Pro

Don't let a poorly-packed bag put you in pinch.

Let's face it—packing for a big trip can be a real pain. But with a some helpful packing tips, you'll breeze through it so you can focus on fun! Make your trip easier all the way around by packing lightly. Bring clothing that can be mixed and matched into multiple different outfits, and include a few accessories to dress up casual items. Wear your bulkiest items when traveling instead of filling up your suitcases with them. If you're flying, check the TSA list of prohibited items and the size of acceptable liquid containers before you pack lotion, shampoo or makeup. Leave enough space so the kiddos pick a favorite small toy or book to take along. And if your holiday includes gift-giving, ship the packages to your destination ahead of time, or you can always exchange presents before you go.

Your Safety Checklist

It’s wise to review a few basic rules with your family before you travel—kids won’t talk to strangers, adults will accompany kids on bathroom breaks, and you’ll all meet at a predetermined spot if you get separated. And if your holiday travel puts you on the road, it's smart to have a road trip safety checklist handy. Be sure to have your vehicle serviced and check the tires before you head out on the road; pack a roadside emergency kit with flares, a flashlight and a first-aid kit; and make sure to keep your cell phones charged. Driving through snowy conditions? Keep an eye on weather reports and make sure you have tire chains packed in the trunk—just in case.

Little Things to Keep the Little Ones Busy

Plan ahead to keep the little ones happy and in the holiday spirit.

When the kids are in tow, keeping track of them at all times is just one of the big headaches of family-travel. But if you plan ahead, the kiddos can stay busy (and out of your hair). in addition to their favorite toy, books or games to keep them busy—be sure to also pack plenty of snacks. Airport delays, traffic jams and missed meals are all likely. Empty tummies just lead to fussing. Having a snack handy will keep everyone (not just the little ones) energized and focused. And after you've arrived and settled in at your destination, it's good to have something planned for the whole family to do. Look into booking holiday show tickets, ski lessons, and other holiday-themed fun in advance—things tend to sell out early.

Fun Time, Family Time and Down Time

Along with celebrating the season and reveling in the excitement of being in a new place, make sure to schedule in some rest and relaxation. Your little ones will do best if you stick to their regular bedtimes and don’t cram too many activities into one day. Your whole family will be much happier and healthier when they are well-rested, and your vacation will be that much better.