How to Plan Your Travel During the Holidays: Best Practices to Save Your Money & Your Sanity
The holidays are one of the most magical times of the year—but traveling during the season? Not so much. Between crowded airports, inflated prices, and unpredictable weather, holiday travel can quickly turn stressful. But don’t worry! With a little planning and a few insider tips, you can navigate the chaos and enjoy a stress-free, budget-friendly holiday getaway.
Christmas 2022 - Florence, Italy
1. Book Early, but Stay Flexible
The holidays are peak travel season, and prices reflect that. To snag the best deals:
Start Booking Early: Flights and accommodations fill up fast, and prices only climb the closer you get to the holidays.
Be Flexible with Dates: Traveling a day or two before or after peak dates can save you a lot of money. For example, flying on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day often costs less than the days leading up to them.
Set Fare Alerts: Use apps like Going or Google Flights to track prices and book when rates drop.
2. Pack Light to Avoid Extra Fees
Holiday travel often means packed flights and limited overhead bin space. Avoid the hassle and save money by:
Using a Carry-On: Skip checked bag fees and reduce the risk of lost luggage.
Packing Versatile Clothing: Think layers and neutral colors that can mix and match for different outfits.
Shipping Gifts: Instead of packing bulky presents, ship them directly to your destination to save space and avoid extra baggage fees.
3. Plan Your Route Strategically
When booking flights, consider these strategies:
Choose Early Flights: Morning flights are less likely to be delayed and help you avoid the domino effect of later-day delays.
Pick Smaller Airports: If possible, fly out of regional airports to avoid the crowds at major hubs.
Build in Extra Time: Layovers are inevitable, so make sure you have plenty of time to get through connecting airports without stress.
Pro Tip: If driving, plan alternate routes in case of holiday traffic jams. Apps like Waze or Apple Maps can help you navigate around delays.
4. Avoid Peak Travel Days
The busiest—and most expensive—travel days of the holiday season are the days immediately before and after Christmas and Thanksgiving. If you can, try to:
Travel earlier in the week to beat the rush.
Extend your trip to return after the holiday crowds have thinned out.
5. Be Prepared for Weather Delays
Winter weather can wreak havoc on holiday travel plans. Minimize disruptions by:
Monitoring Your Flight Status: Sign up for airline notifications and keep an eye on weather forecasts.
Building a Buffer Day: Arrive at your destination a day or two early to ensure you don’t miss important holiday events.
Packing Essentials in Your Carry-On: Include a change of clothes, snacks, and toiletries in case your checked luggage gets delayed.
6. Maximize Your Travel Budget
Holiday travel doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to save:
Use Points or Miles: If you’ve been saving travel rewards, the holidays are a great time to cash them in for flights or hotel stays.
Compare Prices: Use platforms like Kayak, Expedia, and Airbnb to find the best deals.
Stay Outside Major Cities: Accommodations in suburbs or smaller towns are often cheaper than staying in the city center.
7. Stay Organized
A little organization goes a long way during the holidays. Keep things running smoothly by:
Using a Travel App: Apps like TripIt or Google Trips can keep all your reservations and itineraries in one place.
Double-Checking Your Documents: Ensure your ID, passport, and any necessary travel documents are up to date.
Making a Packing List: Avoid last-minute stress by writing down everything you’ll need ahead of time.
8. Don’t Forget Self-Care
Traveling during the holidays can be exhausting, so make sure to prioritize your well-being:
Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water, especially on flights.
Bring Snacks: Pack your favorite healthy snacks to avoid overpriced (and often unhealthy) airport food.
Take Breaks: If driving, stop regularly to stretch and rest.
9. Embrace the Holiday Spirit
Finally, remember that the holidays are about joy and connection. Delays and unexpected hiccups are inevitable, but keeping a positive mindset can make all the difference. Pack a little extra patience and embrace the magic of the season—even if it’s not picture-perfect.
Final Thoughts
Holiday travel doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With early planning, smart strategies, and a little flexibility, you can save money, reduce stress, and make the journey part of the celebration. Whether you’re visiting family, hitting the slopes, or heading to a sunny getaway, these tips will help you travel like a pro this holiday season.
Where are you traveling this holiday season? Share your plans and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Happy Holidays and Safe Travels,
Tim & Brandy
Echoes of Adventures