Well, Christmas in July has passed, and the way time moves, the holidays will be on us before we know it. There is so much to do, that thinking about it in little chunks months in advanced is the only way to handle the stress. Here are some things that you want to remember now so they don't bite you later
Deciding Where You Are Going (Or If You Are Going Anywhere)
Being with someone who lived in a nearby town growing up makes this easy. But when you meet your significant and their family lives in another state, that makes things complicated. Try to compromise with whose family you will be spending what holiday with, and then alternate going forward.
Requesting Time Off
It may seem unfair, but there are businesses that only close on Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you plan on being away for an extended period of time, make sure you have the necessary amount of time off. And request your time off early.
Book your flight
If you're lucky, you may be able to drive to see your friends and family for the holidays. But if you're not, make sure to book those flights. Fare Compare and Expedia are great resources. Tip: flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are cheaper.
Take Care of Your Pet
GiphyAs much as we want to take our furry friends with us when we travel, it's not always a good idea. Have a pet sitter lined up, or see if you can have a friend or neighbor watch them.
Clean out the kitchen
This one flies under the radar. But let's be real: who wants to come home after traveling to find nasty smells coming from either the refrigerator or the sink?
Make sure you have EVERYTHING you need
I can't tell you how many times I forgot a toothbrush or my wallet at home. Make sure you have everything you need, because there is nothing worse than realizing halfway through a flight you forgot something important. And really, after traveling, do you want to worry about finding the nearest CVS or Walgreens for one little thing?
Check the weather as LATE as possible
This is another thing that is easy to forget, but can play a big factor in your travel plans. There is nothing worse than having a flight delayed or canceled by a major storm. Check the forecast for the place you are going the night before you leave so you can prepare for the worst
Embrace the family
Even if they drive you nuts, your family still loves you and misses you like it isn't possible to imagine. You may not agree with your racist uncle or your social justice warrior cousins, but that doesn't mean they don't love you. Enjoy the time you do have with them, because you don't know how much you will have left with them
Also make time with your friends
GiphyLet's face it: you may enjoy being around your family, but they can (and will) drive you nuts. When you need a breather, call up your friends from your hometown and go have fun with them. Remember, your friends are the family you choose.
