If the very thought of holiday travel sends chills down your spine, the endless airport queues, the battle for overhead bin space, and that chilling “where did I put my… ” moment, please know that you’re not alone. As someone who’s spent more time at airports than I would care to, I can relate with this familiar dread. The holidays should be about joy, connection, and spending time with loved ones, not a test of mental and physical endurance. But with a dash of preparation and a sprinkle of self-kindness, we can transform the chaos into something almost… bearable. Think of these tips as your gentle guide through the season’s peak travel times. After all, we are meant to enjoy the journey as much as the destination, right?
Before You Set Off
Let’s start at home, where a little planning can save you from those last-minute panics.
On securing those high demand flights, airlines using dynamic pricing is more about overall demand than tracking your personal browser history but if you search over and over again, especially from the same device you will likely notice a price increase, I suggest comparing dates and airlines options using a comparison service like Skyscanner or google flights to get an idea of what is available. Once your decision is made, return to the airline’s website to book only when you are ready to purchase.
For domestic U.S. trips, here’s a sweet secret: booking on a Sunday can save you up to 15-20% compared to a Friday, when prices tend to peak. For those coveted holiday dates, don’t wait too long, secure them early to avoid the heartbreak of sold-out routes.
Opting for carry-on only is a game-changer, not just for speed but for stress, also many airlines now charge hefty fees for checked bags. If you’re toting gifts, consider shipping bulky packages directly to your destination, either through online retailers or by packing a box yourself with those liquid gifts or extra items that won’t fit in your carry on suitcase. Just remember, no valuables, keep jewelry or special items close. This option also prevents carefully wrapped presents from getting squished, lost or confiscated in transit.
To maximize your luggage allowance, embrace the capsule wardrobe idea to curb overpacking. curate a few versatile, lightweight pieces that layer effortlessly and will mix and match with each other. Think layerable shirts and sweaters with a compressible puffer jacket rather than a bulky wool coat. My rule is that if you can only wear the item in one outfit, you don’t take it, I make sure each item can be worn with multiple other items that I am packing.
For peace of mind, email yourself digital copies of your ID and travel information. This can be a lifesaver if you find yourself needing details on the go or a last minute replacement. Don’t forget to check in to your flight online as soon as it opens, usually 24-72 hours before takeoff, this can give you your boarding passes on your device and an opportunity to snag better seats. Lastly, it is also worth checking if your credit card offers the premium perk of airport lounge access, the preflight oasis of a lounge can be the ultimate in self-care amid the bustle of the terminal.
Breezing through the Airport
Ah, the airport, the grand stage for holiday chaos. To tame it, join TSA PreCheck if you haven’t already. It’s a worthwhile investment for skipping or at least reducing those nightmare lines, make sure to slip your passport out of any fancy holder to keep things swift. Arrive extra early, aim for three hours before the flight departure during peak times, many people underestimate the traffic coming into airports to drop off, so allow enough time for that too.
Dress for comfort and ease, opt for walking shoes and stretchy fabrics with elastic waists that won’t dig in, and no belts that will need to come off at security. Pack your liquids in a clear quart-sized zip-lock bag, with each container holding no more than 3.4 ounces (that’s the steadfast TSA 3-1-1 rule, though some airports are slowly phasing it out with new scanners. Place them in an easily accessible spot, not every checkpoint requires removal, but preparation is key to avoiding hold-ups. Pro tip: favor cream or powder makeup over liquids to sidestep leaks from cabin pressure changes, and invest in a hanging toiletry bag for effortless organization.
Your carry-on additions matter too, choose a tote or backpack with a variety of pockets that attaches to your roller bag, consider a crossbody phone holder for hands-free convenience. If you choose a tote, ensure it zips securely to prevent items falling out and allow space to nestle your smaller handbag inside, airlines can be strict about adhering to that “personal item” allowance so avoid getting pulled aside for a third-bag. slip in a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated post-security, and if you’re checking a bag, an AirTag or similar inside is a must, and don’t forget to snap a photo of your luggage and its contents, for insurance just in case it takes a detour.
Remember, laptops and power banks belong strictly in your carry-on, airlines prohibit them in checked luggage for safety reasons, though policies on in-flight use vary, almost all allow them in personal items. Antibacterial wipes are your germ-fighting and sticky finger saviour, they’re security-friendly, unlike sanitizer gels that count as liquids. Keep all medications with you, accompanied by a prescription photo on your phone or the original packaging. And for that inevitable dryness? Pack electrolytes, a rich hydrating cream, and a petite moisturizing spray. Airports and planes are notorious dehydrators, much of our travel fatigue stems from it, so are not just little luxuries but essential.
On the Plane
Once airborne, lozenges, especially those with eucalyptus or for congestion are a godsend for soothing ears during takeoff and landing, while subtly masking any less-than-festive odors inneighbouring seats. Corded headphones (or adapters for your earbuds) prevent the tragedy of loss mid-flight. Consider using a lightweight natural-fiber scarf around your shoulders for versatile warmth during the flight.
At Your Destination
Finally, you’ve arrived, take a deep breath, you did it. Now no doubt you are wanting to record your special moments, for those Instagram worthy shots at Christmas markets or around festive lights, wear a light-colored top, it illuminates you beautifully in low light. If filming the decorative lights and they flickering like strobes, tweak your phone’s camera settings: head to camera options, select video, and set the frame rate to 30 or 60 frames per second (based on the U.S. power grid’s frequency) this should resolve the issue.
But above all, pause and remember why you’re there, the laughter, the loved ones, the wonder of the season.
As we weave through those queues, let’s hold space for empathy and patience, that annoying person ahead is probably heading to friends, family, and people they love, just like you. Approach situations and others with kindness, a soft genuine smile, and you will hopefully share a laugh over the chaos of it all. Safe travels, may your holidays be as joyous as you deserve.