As we roll into the holiday season, Christmas and the New Year often become synonymous with travel. But let’s be honest, traveling during these times can be anything but relaxing.

Travel stress is real, folks. Whether it’s busy airports, delayed flights, or crowded trains, it’s easy to lose sight of the joy that’s meant to come with the holidays.

But fear not, fellow travelers! There are ways to make the journey less stressful and more enjoyable.

So here I present nine survival tips for holiday travel. These are tried and true strategies that have saved my sanity more times than I can count. So buckle up and read on. Trust me, your future travel-self will thank you.

1) Early birds avoid the stress

Let’s be honest, procrastination and last-minute scrambling can add unnecessary stress to our travel plans. The holiday season, with its notorious reputation for being chaotic, is no exception.

I’ve found that being an early bird when it comes to holiday travel can make a world of difference. From booking flights and accommodations well in advance to arriving at the airport or train station with time to spare, these seemingly small actions can significantly reduce travel-induced anxiety.

And it isn’t just me saying this. Many seasoned travelers swear by this approach. After all, who would willingly choose to navigate through a sea of frantic, last-minute travelers when they could be sipping coffee at a quiet airport cafe instead?

Remember, early planning and arrival aren’t just about beating the crowds. They’re about giving yourself breathing room for unexpected hiccups that can pop up during your journey. So next time you plan your holiday travel, try being an early bird and see the difference it makes!

2) Pack light, travel happy

One personal lesson I’ve learned over the years is the power of packing light. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the relief that comes from not having to drag an overstuffed suitcase through a bustling airport or crowded train station.

During a Christmas trip to New York a few years ago, I decided to limit myself to carry-on luggage only. Initially, I was skeptical – it was winter after all, and I had presents to bring! But, I managed to pack smart and fit everything in.

The result? A much smoother travel experience. No more worrying about lost luggage, no more waiting at the carousel upon arrival, and navigating through the city became a breeze.

Now, packing light has become my go-to strategy for stress-free travel. It might seem challenging at first, but once you master the art of minimalistic packing, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled any other way!

3) Hydrate for health

Ever noticed that you feel extra thirsty during a flight? It’s not just in your head. The air inside an airplane cabin is typically less than 20% humidity. That’s drier than most deserts! This dry environment can easily lead to dehydration if you’re not careful.

Dehydration can cause a variety of discomforts like dry skin, fatigue, and headaches, which can add unnecessary stress to your journey.

To combat this, make it a point to stay hydrated during your travels. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate you further.

Staying well-hydrated not only keeps you feeling good but also helps your body adjust better to jet lag. So next time you’re on a plane, remember to sip, not gulp, and keep that water bottle handy!

4) Embrace the downtime

Travel, especially during the holidays, often comes with inevitable delays. It’s easy to let this trigger stress and frustration. But over the years, I’ve learned to see this downtime as an opportunity rather than a setback.

Instead of fretting over things out of my control, I use this time to catch up on reading, listen to my favorite podcasts, or even strike up conversations with fellow travelers. You’d be surprised at how quickly time can pass when you’re engaged in something you enjoy.

The key is to anticipate these delays and come prepared. Pack a good book, download your favorite shows, or bring a travel journal. Not only does this keep you entertained, but it also turns potential stress into a productive or enjoyable experience.

Remember, travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. So why not make the most of it?

5) Stay active

Long flights or train rides can often leave you feeling sluggish and stiff. Trust me, there’s nothing fun about starting your holiday with a crick in your neck or a sore back.

One way to combat this is by staying active during your journey. Simple exercises like stretching your legs, rotating your ankles or doing a few neck rolls can make a big difference.

I always make it a point to get up and walk around every hour or so during long journeys. Not only does it keep my blood circulating, but it also helps me feel less lethargic.

So the next time you’re on a long journey, don’t forget to move a little. Your body will thank you for it!

6) Cherish the moments

Amidst the chaos and rush of holiday travel, it’s easy to forget the real reason we’re doing it all – to spend precious moments with our loved ones.

There was one Christmas when my flight got delayed and I spent most of the day at the airport. Sure, it was frustrating, but then I realized something. I was on my way to see family and friends that I hadn’t seen in months. When put into that perspective, a few extra hours at the airport didn’t seem so bad.

Let’s remember that these journeys, however stressful, lead us to warm hugs, hearty meals and shared laughs. They take us home or create new homes for us elsewhere.

So when the going gets tough, remember the love and joy waiting for you at the end of your journey. It makes all the difference!

7) Mindful travel

I used to be someone who would constantly check the time during my travels, counting down the minutes until I reached my destination. It was exhausting and made my journeys feel much longer than they actually were.

One year, I decided to try something different. I chose to be present during my travels, taking in the sights and sounds around me, even if it was just the hum of an airplane or the passing landscapes from a train window.

The difference was surprising. I felt less anxious and more at peace. My journeys became less about reaching the destination as fast as possible, and more about enjoying the ride.

Now, I practice mindful travel whenever I can. It’s not always easy, but it’s certainly worth it. So next time you find yourself rushing through your journey, try slowing down. You might be surprised at what you find.

8) Healthy snacking

We all know how tempting it can be to indulge in airport fast food or sugary snacks during a long journey. But these quick fixes can leave you feeling sluggish and bloated, adding to your travel stress.

That’s why I make it a point to pack healthy snacks for my trips. Nuts, fruits, granola bars – these are all great options that not only keep hunger at bay but also provide sustained energy.

Eating healthy during your journey can make a world of difference. It keeps your blood sugar levels stable and prevents mood swings that can come from hunger or sugar crashes.

So next time you’re preparing for a trip, remember to pack some healthy snacks. Your body will appreciate the fuel, and you’ll arrive at your destination feeling much better!

9) Be kind to yourself

In the hustle and bustle of holiday travel, it’s crucial not to forget the most important person – you. Travel stress can be overwhelming, but remember, it’s okay not to have everything perfectly under control.

Take breaks when you need to, hydrate, eat well, sleep as much as you can. Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go exactly as planned. Travel is unpredictable, and that’s part of its charm.

Most importantly, remember to enjoy the journey. After all, holidays are about creating memories and having experiences. So take a deep breath, relax, and embark on your adventure with an open heart and mind.

Final thought: Embrace the journey

The essence of travel isn’t just about reaching the destination, it’s about the journey itself. Every journey, especially during the holiday season, brings with it a unique blend of experiences, stories, and memories.

Navigating through travel stress is undeniably tough, but it’s also an integral part of the journey that shapes our travel tales.

As famed travel writer Paul Theroux once said, “Travel is glamorous only in retrospect.” In the moment, it can be messy, chaotic, and stressful. But these experiences often morph into cherished memories as time passes.

So as you embark on your holiday travels, remember these survival tips. But more importantly, embrace the journey with all its ups and downs.

After all, these journeys lead to unforgettable Christmases and New Years, filled with warmth, love and joy. And isn’t that what makes all the stress worthwhile?