Stress-Free Holiday Travel
Ten Tips for a Joyful Journey
The holidays are almost here, and I absolutely love this time of year. It’s a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration…but as you probably know, traveling during this season can be anything but joyful!
Between busy roads and airports, managing extra packages and people, and finding activities to please the whole family, it can be downright stressful. But I know from experience that with the right mindset and preparation, you can do it without the stress – and it might even be part of the fun.
Ready to plan your holiday getaway? Reach out today, and we’ll craft one just for you.
Let’s leave the stress behind as you make your way to celebrate. Here are ten tips to help you navigate the holiday season with ease and make the most of your journey.
1. Embrace Experiences Over Things
Instead of stressing over buying and transporting gifts, why not consider skipping them altogether in favor of a memorable vacation with loved ones? Whether it’s a cozy cabin in the mountains, a tropical getaway, exploring a new city or visiting another country, experiences shared with family and friends create lasting memories that far outshine material possessions.
2. Avoid Packing Expensive Gifts
If you must travel with gifts, avoid placing expensive or fragile items in your checked luggage and make sure to keep them with you at all times. Lost or damaged baggage can quickly ruin your holiday cheer. Instead of adding this worry to your travels, ship gifts to your destination or pack them in your carry-on to ensure they arrive safely.
3. Ship Gifts Directly
Want to take the hassle out of traveling with gifts? Order them online and have them shipped directly to your destination, so they’re waiting for you when you arrive. Many retailers also offer gift-wrapping services, ensuring a beautiful presentation while giving you more time to spend with your loved ones.
4. Mind the Wrapping
If you are choosing to bring gifts in your luggage during air travel, keep in mind that the TSA might need to inspect them, so avoid wrapping gifts before you travel. Instead, use gift bags or leave them loose and plan to wrap them once you arrive. This simple step can save you from having your hard work and amazing wrapping skills undone at the security checkpoint.
5. Pack Light
Packing light is always a smart choice, but it’s especially true during the holidays since you’ll probably need heavier outerwear and may be transporting gifts both ways. Choose versatile, layerable clothing to handle unpredictable weather without overloading your suitcase. Accessories like scarves and hats can add variety to outfits without taking up much space.
6. Have a Plan B
If your holiday plans hinge on arriving at a specific time, like catching a cruise or attending a special event, consider booking a fully refundable backup flight. Weather changes and delays are common during the holiday season, and this little bit of foresight can save your entire trip, not to mention a huge amount of stress. Also be sure to give yourself a longer connection if you cannot fly direct; having many inexperienced travelers in the airport makes for longer boardings. Many other factors can force a shorter connection during holiday travel, so give yourself the space of a longer one.
7. Rent Dressy Outfits
Heading to a holiday gala, the theater, or a formal event? Instead of packing bulky dress clothes, consider using a service like Rent the Runway. You can have your outfits shipped directly to your destination and return them from there; it’s a super convenient way to look great without overpacking.
8. Be Flexible
Flexibility is a must when it comes to holiday travel – delays, cancellations, and changes are all part of the journey during this busy season. With your backup plans in place, your smart packing skills, thinking ahead and preparing for anything, you can more easily embrace a go-with-the-flow attitude, minimize frustration and keep your spirits bright.
9. Enjoy the Journey
Ultimately, the holidays are about joy and connection, so let the journey be part of the adventure! Bring portable games (or play a travel game with your companions), headphones, snacks, water, and anything you need to keep everyone occupied, hydrated and well-fed. With a mindset focused on creating memories and a few smart choices while you plan, you can enjoy the whole trip, not just the destination.
10. Get Expert Help
If you want to try something new this year, or simply want a completely stress-free experience, enlist our team of seasoned travel experts here at The Curated Travel Collection. We handle all the details so you can focus on what truly matters – cherished time with loved ones, celebrating the spirit of the season and making memories. Relax, we’ve got you covered!
There you go, my top ten tips for travel this season! Remember, by focusing on thoughtful preparation and flexibility, your holiday travel can become a seamless and enjoyable part of the holidays.
Want to a experience a holiday you’ll never forget? Reach out today and we’ll plan the perfect getaway, curated just for you.
Relax, we’ll take care of everything,
Amy Westerman
President
The Curated Travel Collection
