Holiday traveling is known for being a stressful time. With crowded airports, bad weather, flight delays, and angry people it can seem like the worst way to spend your holiday. But holiday travel doesn’t have to be so bad. Follow these five holiday travel tips and get rid of your travel anxiety.

Book in Advance

Book your flights, hotel, rental cars, and everything else you need in advance to make sure there are no problems. Make sure to plan accordingly and check several different travel sites to find the best deals. Make sure to plan for layovers and give yourself plenty of time. Weather can wreak havoc on your travel plans and a missed connection could mean holidays at the airport.

Pack Light

Avoid checking bags if possible. Most airlines charge fees for checked bags, and during the holidays, the process is a lesson in frustration. 

Make sure to know security regulations before packing carry-on luggage. They are very strict on things like liquids and anything sharp. To avoid frustration, know the rules and pack appropriately. Make sure to include snacks for your trip and something to drink. To avoid a headache, pack ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones and bring plenty of movies loaded on to your laptop or tablet.

Make a List

Make a list of everything you need to do the day before and the day of departure. Add everything you need to do beforehand to make sure all last-minute errands are ran and everything gets packed. This list may include items like arranging boarding for pets, paying last-minute bills, double checking all arrangements are made, and any other tasks that need done in advance.

Make another list of everything that needs done on the day of departure. Include things such as grab boarding passes, check for flight delays, items to pack for carry-on luggage, etc.

Secure the House

Make sure when you leave your home for the holidays to make sure to lock everything up tight. The holiday season is a peak time for burglary so make sure to lock all your windows and doors.

Use timers to turn your lights on and off and appliance modules to turn on a tv or radio occasionally to make your home feel lived in. Have someone pick up your mail and check your home from time to time. Better yet get a house sitter. Avoid posting your travel information on social networking sites and your voicemail to alert people that your not home.

Arrive at the Airport Early

Make sure to get to the airport a couple of hours early during the holiday season. This is especially important if you have bags to check or need to find parking. Have a friend drop you off at the airport to save on parking as well as avoid the hassle.

Give yourself time to get through security and if you have planned well, the process should go smoothly. Once you’re in the terminal, take some time to find your gate and then relax. Grab something to eat and drink and prepare for the fun ahead.

 

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