Traveling can be stressful regardless of season, but during the holidays, it's a nightmare. Dealing with the chaos and people can be overwhelming, so here are 5 tips to get you through holiday traveling.
1. Get to the Airport early!
I know everyone always says this, but it’s important, especially around the holidays. The airports get busier; people get stressed and tensions may rise. Save yourself the trouble this holiday season and arrive at least an hour or two before your flight. This will give you plenty of time to get through that dreadful security line, check your flight and even stop to grab your favorite cup of joe. No need to stress yourself out more during the hectic holiday season, so arrive early and save yourself the hassle.
2. Know the Airport Rules
This one’s an important one. If you are flying this holiday season, make sure you know the rules of travel: bags less than 50 lbs., no liquids in carry-ons over 3 oz., etc. These rules will save you the hassle of having to dig through your in purse at the TSA, frantically searching for the small tube of lotion you had in there. Not only will you save yourself time and hassle, but you’ll keep the line moving for others' convenience as well.
3. Dress in Layers
Whether you are road-tripping or flying during the holidays, dressing in layers will ensure that you stay comfortable at any temperature. When flying, the airports and planes are freezing, so dressing in layers can help you when it gets too cold. Also important to note, dress comfortably! Being comfortable is so important when it comes to traveling. Who wants to be stuck in a car or on a plane for hours wearing jeans or uncomfortably tight pants. Not me, no thank you! My advice, wear leggings! You can dress them up with a cute sweater or blouse or dress them down with a comfy sweatshirt and UGGs. (Yes I approve of UGGs; they make you feel like you’re walking in clouds, and who doesn’t want their feet to be that comfortable?) Another comfortable option is athletic attire.
4. Bring snacks!
Anytime you’re traveling, it’s important to be prepared. Pack a couple snacks and a bottle of water so you don’t go hungry (hangry) or thirsty. Airport food can be pricey, so save yourself a pretty penny and bring your own goodies. You may even like them better than the ones you could’ve bought at the airport. With snacks comes gum, my number one essential when it comes to traveling (especially when flying). Not only does it freshen your breath after you munch on that bag of hot Cheetos, but chewing gum on airplanes will help your ears from popping when the plane takes off or lands. Save yourself the earache and pick up a pack for your next trip.
5. Have something to do for when you get bored.
Whether you’re flying or driving, sitting in one place for so long can get tiring, and there’s only so much boredom a person can take. Save yourself the agony and pack something to entertain yourself. Whether it be a good book to read, earphones to listen to music with or games on your phone, having something to do during those long hours of travel will save you the exhaustion. I recommend making a bomb playlist to blast in the car. Make it long so you won’t have to replay it multiple times, because nothing ruins your favorite song than having to listen to it over and over again. Having an upbeat and dance worthy playlist will not only put a smile on your face, but will keep you awake and prevent you from falling asleep on those long roads. If you ever start to feel tired when driving, turn up the volume of the music and dance around a bit. Getting your blood moving will keep you awake so you can focus on the road in front of you.
Enjoy the holidays and don't stress out about the little things. Getting through the airport or road trip is only part of it. Enjoy the journey and make the most of your holiday season.
