The crisp pine scent floating in the chilly winter air and the twinkling lights popping up around town could only mean one thing, the holidays are around the corner! Santa is planning his travel itinerary as he gears up for his annual trip around the world—and so should you.
With the holidays fast approaching, it’s time to start planning your festive travels—whether that means jetting off to a vacation destination or visiting your loved ones.
Holiday Travel Tips – For a Safe & Stress-Free Festive Season
1. Stay Safe
Taking precautionary measures is arguably the most important holiday travel tip. As the old saying goes, “Prepare and prevent, don’t repair and repent.” You may be itching to hit the road to your destination, but it’s crucial to lay the groundwork for a safe journey. This may include:
- Ensuring your home is safe while you’re away having fun. Consider installing a robust security system, canceling scheduled deliveries, and asking your neighbors to be on the lookout for suspicious activities.
- Researching the safety of any new or unfamiliar destinations. Look into the crime rates and take note of any high-risk areas.
- Following local safety guidelines.
- Sharing your travel itinerary with someone you trust.
- Purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in case of an emergency.
- If any of your family members have medical conditions, plan your holiday itinerary with their unique needs in mind.
2. Beat The Holiday Rush.
Save money and beat the crowds by planning ahead and booking early. A great way to get the best deals and dodge the hectic holiday craze is by traveling during the week instead of on the weekends.
By planning your trip on unpopular days, you’re likely to save a decent sum on flights and accommodation. It can also mean fewer crowds and a more peaceful, relaxing trip.
And if you have an appetite for adventure, consider less-visited vacation destinations. Broaden your horizons by ditching notoriously popular spots in favor of ‘diamonds in the rough’. Traveling off the beaten path takes you away from swarms of tourists and keeps the costs low. For example, think of La Paz or Todos Santos instead of Cabo, Mexico.
3. Take The Scenic Route.
A memorable holiday is more about the journey than the destination. The key is to make every minute an enjoyable experience. Live in the present moment.
For example, if you’re traveling a short distance, taking a train or bus instead of flying can be a more scenic, environmentally friendly, and leisurely way to travel. It’s a great opportunity to see more of the local area, experience the authentic culture, and save a couple of bucks in the process – it’s a win-win.
4.Travel Light and Travel Right.
We get it, you’re excited—but going on a holiday trip doesn’t mean you have to squeeze your entire house in your bags. If you can, choose a carry-on size bag and pack the essentials to save time & money, avoid unnecessary hassle, and reduce the risk of losing a checked bag.
To help you pack light, make a list of the activities you’ll be doing on your holiday trip—and only bring the items you’ll need for those activities. This may mean leaving behind unnecessary items such as beauty products or extra clothes/shoes that you likely won’t use.
And when it comes to gifts for your friends and family, consider shipping them directly to your travel destination. But if you must have the gifts with you, secure breakable items and skip the wrapping, as you’ll likely have to unwrap them at security.
Along the same lines, you’d also be wise to familiarize yourself with the TSA’s travel rules for a stress-free experience. Check their official website for “What Can I Bring?” and their recommended “Travel Checklist.”
5. Be Flexible.
Even with the most carefully calculated travel itinerary, there’s always the risk of unforeseen setbacks. In the event of a hitch, you should be prepared to circumnavigate the obstacles with backup plans.
Be prepared for the unexpected, leave room for different options, and be open to new experiences (and destinations). Sometimes the most memorable holiday travels arise from riding the wave and seeing where it will take you. So don’t be afraid of spontaneity—as long as it’s within your safety and budget limits.
6. Respect The Locals.
If you’re traveling to a holiday destination for the first time, make the most of your trip by doing a little reconnaissance in advance. Take time to learn as much as you can about the local culture, customs, and traditions.
By learning about the local culture, you’ll have a deeper understanding and appreciation of the place you’re visiting, and you’ll be able to engage with the local community in a more meaningful and respectful way.
Some cultural nuances to look into include greeting rituals, prevailing dress codes, and local festivals/events that coincide with your visit.
7. Stay Connected.
Staying connected during your trip can be important for keeping in touch with loved ones back home or colleagues at work. Here are some holiday travel tips to help you stay connected:
- Purchase a local SIM card, especially when roaming rates fetch a hefty price tag.
- Get a portable WiFi device if you’re vacationing in a country with limited or expensive internet access.
- Pack a portable charger and a power bank to keep your phone powered up.
- Jot down important phone numbers in case you lose your phone or it runs out of juice.
Ready For Your Holiday Adventure?
The holidays are about relaxing and spending quality time with loved ones. Take a break during your trip and prepare for bumps in the road with these holiday travel tips.
Happy Holidays from the Avenue Realty family!
