Holiday Travel: Tips and Tricks for a Stress-Free Vacation
Are you looking forward to a stress-free vacation but don’t know where to start? Well, with this helpful guide, you’ll be well prepared for upcoming holiday travel! We’ve compiled a checklist of tips and tricks from experts to ensure your vacation is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
From creating a plan and managing budgets to anticipating weather changes and staying safe, we have designed this article to give you the best advice for an unforgettable trip. So read on, as we equip you with the necessary tools to make sure your getaway is nothing less than perfect!
Planning Ahead
Holiday travel can be a nightmare – but it doesn’t have to be! Want to make sure your trip is smooth and stress-free? Here’s what you need to do: Research the destination, book accommodations and transportation early, and create a list of must-see attractions. Planning ahead can save you money, reduce stress, and avoid delays. Leave a day or two before your trip starts and stay an extra day when it ends. Look for budget airlines recommended by other travelers. And don’t forget about the latest COVID-19 guidelines for travelling over the holidays – compare prices, look for discounts, book off-peak flights, use public transport where possible!
Research Your Destination
Researching the destination before travelling is essential in ensuring a successful holiday trip. There are many resources available to use when researching the destination, such as CDC or government/tourism board websites. Checking these websites can provide helpful information on the current health risks and diseases at the destination.
It is also important to check the passport requirements for entering a country, such as six months validity.
Book Accommodations and Transportation Early
Booking early and using travel apps can be beneficial in saving money and time. There are different hotel booking options available from a travel app, such as exceptional accommodations with baggage handling.
There are also rental car options available from a travel app when booking transportation. To get the best value for reward points when booking flights, do research and book in advance.
Make a List of Must-See Attractions
Using a city sightseeing pass is an amazing way to discover a destination. With fast pass access and reduced cost of individual attraction fees, it’s no wonder why so many people opt for this convenient option. Marvel at museums, explore monuments, or take in the beauty of parks – all with one city sightseeing pass! Exploring a destination has never been easier!
Packing Tips
When it comes to holiday season and travel, packing lightly is key. To make your trip less stressful, consider the weather at your destination – if it’s warm you won’t need as many layers compared to a cold climate. Preparing for the security line? Bring items that can be easily accessed like a clear bag for toiletries and electronics.
Deciding what to take on your journey can be tricky – lay out everything you want to bring then halve it! For those looking to save money, traveling with only a carry-on is an economical option; no checked luggage fees or risk of losing your bag plus soaps, shampoo etc are usually available at hotels or local stores.
Before leaving on vacation, get yourself a housesitter – this will give you peace of mind in case something happens while away. If taking a road trip, research discounted ride sharing prices too; apps may be more expensive than rental cars so plan ahead!
When on holiday, safety should always come first – take advantage of local resources and deals but remember to research prices before going so you don’t overspend!
Pack Lightly
When deciding what to take on a journey, it’s essential to pack lightly – like carrying a feather in the wind. This will make your trip less stressful and you won’t have to worry about lugging around heavy luggage. Before takeoff, be sure to check airline restrictions and regulations for extra luggage space just in case you need it on the way back. Packing cubes can be an excellent way of squeezing some of your rolled clothes into cubes for extra flattening. If you’re looking to save money, consider traveling with only a carry-on; this will help avoid checked luggage fees and there’s no risk of losing your bag!
It’s also important to prepare for security before takeoff: make sure all necessary items are placed in a carry-on so that locating your laptop quickly is easy while waiting in line at the security checkpoint. Bring along a reusable water bottle so you can fill up at the airport, plus protein snacks and pick-me-up treats too! Don’t forget about the 3-1-1 rule either – each passenger is allowed containers of 3.4 ounces or less per 1 quart bag when flying through security checkpoints.
Bring Essentials
When packing for a voyage, it’s essential to bring the basics – like packing a suitcase for success. The TSA is expecting around two million travelers per day during the Christmas travel period, so be sure to plan ahead. Shield your skin from the sun with sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher – think of it as an armor against UV rays! Snow globes are strictly prohibited in carry-on luggage, but you can still send presents by post or give gift cards instead – like sending love through the mail!
Prepare for Security
When preparing for a flight, have you ever wondered what the 3-1-1 rule for liquids is? Well, each passenger is allowed to bring containers of 3.4 ounces or less in one 1-quart bag – like packing your suitcase with tiny puzzle pieces. Additionally, aerosols, gels and liquids are prohibited from carry on luggage so make sure to keep all medications and your passport in a carry-on just in case! It’s also important to keep items that are difficult to replace such as wallets, contact lenses, glasses, medication and electronics close by.
If you’re vaccinated, it’s essential to have proof of vaccinations too – this can provide medical expense and evacuation protection if needed while travelling outside of your medical network. To help locate checked baggage quickly, consider getting a luggage tracker tag from Amazon – it’ll be like having an extra set of eyes watching over your bags!
Before leaving home, make sure to unplug items like routers, computers and TVs – plugging in light timers will give the illusion that someone is still at home. So before jetting off ask yourself: What should I do before leaving home? Unplug those electronics!
On the Road
With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how to make your travels as stress-free as possible. Planning ahead is key – research your destination, book accommodations and transportation early, and create a list of must-see attractions. When it comes to getting to the airport or taking a road trip, consider flights earlier in the day or Sunday at the end of Thanksgiving weekend for fewer delays. And if you do find yourself stuck in long queues or waiting for delayed flights? Make the most of it! Catch up on emails, swap stories with strangers – use this time as an opportunity rather than something that needs to be endured. Remember: keeping a positive outlook will help get you through any travel hiccups so you can enjoy your holiday break!
Leave Plenty of Time to Get to the Airport
When leaving for the airport, planning ahead and leaving plenty of time is essential. Flying now may bring some perks – fewer delays, a better airport experience. Booking the first flight? That’s smart too! You’ll have a better chance to get on your flight and leave on time, plus you reduce the risk of plane getting stuck or delayed/cancelled. Take it from me – I know this firsthand! When travelling from Austria to Munich, I had two hours to get to the gate…and was about to miss my flight until I begged an airport guy for fast lane security access. Moral of the story: plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time when flying!
Consider Taking a Road Trip
Taking a road trip is an awesome way to save money and make the most of your holiday. Before you hit the road, it’s important to give your car a check-up – tires, oil, brakes – all need to be in top condition. Plus, don’t forget roadside assistance just in case! To get even more savings out of your airport parking spot, search online for deals. And if you’re flying from far away? Consider taking a train or bus with friends – it’ll save time and money! Finally, why not take a motorcoach or professional driver? It’s budget-friendly and provides safe transportation to wherever you’re headed.
Have a Backup Plan
Travelling on the holidays – a stressful experience? With airports often being ghost towns on Christmas day, getting on the next flight or even getting a flight at all can be difficult. But Alexa Labaw of Private Luxury Travel Advisor Marchay Travel has some advice: always have a Plan B and Plan C in case your plans change. Airlines are typically flexible if there’s bad weather, so check their policies before booking. And don’t forget to bring policy documents with you just in case! Finally, pack extra snacks and have an alternate plan ready for any delays or cancellations. That way, your holiday travels will go as smoothly as possible!
During Your Stay
The holiday season is a popular time for travel, and with the world in its current state, it’s important to be prepared and prioritize safety. It’s vital that travelers research COVID requirements before leaving town and have proof of vaccination or negative test results, as well as the apps accepted in their destination country.
When traveling, using local resources can be a great way to get the most out of your trip. Many hotels will have a concierge service that can help with COVID protocols, such as informing travelers of test locations and pharmacies. Additionally, restaurant apps such as YELP can be a great resource for finding dining options.
Engaging with people during travel can also be beneficial. Not only does it make the experience sweeter, but it also shows interest in the local culture and people. It can also be a great way to find out about events or restaurants that may not be listed online.
It’s also important to take advantage of deals and discounts while traveling. This can include booking flights and hotels early to save money, or simply looking for discounts at restaurants or attractions around the city. Additionally, taking advantage of the warm weather and going on a road trip can also be a great way to save money.
Prioritize Safety
When it comes to holiday travel, safety should be your top priority. Have you researched the COVID requirements before leaving town? Do you have proof of a negative test result or vaccination? Additionally, it’s important to know when UV exposure is at its highest – summer months, near the equator and between 10am and 4pm.
Discover New York without waiting in line! The One World Observatory and 911 Museum offer insight into the city’s history and culture.
Make sure to take advantage of deals while traveling – book flights and hotels early, look for airline discounts or promotions, research local discounts at attractions and restaurants.
Use Local Resources
Using local resources while traveling can be a great way to maximize your experience. But how do you get the most out of it? Hotel concierges are an invaluable source for information about the city and its events, as well as better restaurant suggestions or dining times. Restaurant apps like YELP can also provide plenty of options.
Exploring events, restaurants and museum exhibits is a fantastic way to make your holiday trip even more special – plus, you’ll gain insight into the people and culture of the area!
Take Advantage of Deals and Discounts
Travelers should take advantage of any deals and discounts available to them while travelling – from booking flights and hotels early, to searching for discounts at restaurants or attractions around the city. Why not take a road trip too? It’s an easy way to save money! When it comes time to travel on the big day, do your research! Look into airline discounts and promotions that can help with the cost of flights. And if you’re travelling on Christmas Day itself, don’t worry – there are still ways to make up for it. Get creative with some extra special Christmas gifts. Eve traditions like decorating the house and tree, baking holiday treats, or singing carols together as a family. These memories will last long after your travels have ended!
Summary
The holiday season is one of the most cherished times of the year, but it can also be a stressful time for those who are planning to travel. With the current pandemic and special COVID-19 requirements, ensuring a stress-free holiday trip requires more preparation. Planning ahead and researching the destination thoroughly, booking accommodations and transportation early, making a list of must-see attractions, and packing lightly are all essential steps to a smooth and successful holiday experience.
When traveling, even with safety at the forefront, there are many opportunities to explore the area, from utilizing local resources such as hotel concierges, restaurant apps, or city sightseeing passes, to looking for deals and discounts for a memorable holiday trip. With these simple tips and tricks, travelers will be able to make the most out of their holiday vacation and enjoy a stress-free and budget-friendly holiday travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it holiday or holidays or vacation?
The terms ‘holidays’ and ‘vacation’ are often used interchangeably, but depending on your context and location, one may be more appropriate than the other. In the US and Canada, ‘vacation’ is generally used to refer to a trip taken away from home, while in other English-speaking countries, ‘holiday’ is more commonly used.
Either way, both terms are understood and represent an enjoyable break from the everyday routine.
What’s the difference between holiday and travelling?
Essentially, a holiday is more of a set plan and structure, while traveling can be more spontaneous and open-ended. Holidays often involve a specific destination or stay-cation with pre-planned activities, while traveling usually involves exploring multiple destinations and engaging in new cultural experiences.
What is the difference between vacation and staycation?
Vacation and staycation offer the opportunity to relax away from work, however a vacation involves traveling away from home while a staycation usually means taking some time to enjoy your local area.
The main difference is that with a staycation you don’t have to worry about the stress and cost of travel.
What is the difference between travelling and going on holiday?
Going on holiday and travelling have distinct differences. A holiday is typically a break from regular obligations, such as work and home commitments, to relax and explore a new environment without having to worry about travel arrangements or what to do next.
On the other hand, travelling is focused on exploring and enjoying many different places, with a lot of personal effort put into planning and preparation.
