The secret to traveling during the holidays might seem unattainable, let alone traveling during the holidays, but keeping your patience and remembering that Jesus needs to be the center can be hard. Planning and having a backup plan for the unexpected is key.
So here are some tips I learned over the 20-plus years of traveling during the holidays from missions.
I remember one Christmas when I was traveling home for the holidays. It was four days before Christmas, and I was going home from Eastern Europe. I booked the bus ticket early, I got the last bus that ran, it was a six hour trip to get to the airport.
When I got to the bus station, they let me know the bus was canceled; they didn’t bother to tell anyone who got tickets.
I had around 10 hours before my Flight, and hours away from the airport. For me to make in time I had a few hours before I needed to leave.
I started praying and calling friends. One of my best friends got me a driver and who took me to the airport. Shout out to Cosmin! For calling everyone in the city to find me a ride. It’s always good to have great friends.
It was a mini miracle. So I made it home for Christmas.
Now, that was a very unexpected holiday travel hiccup.
Things that I did when it got crazy and a secret to traveling during the holidays to keep your peace.
Pray when problems arise.
I’ve been in so many great travel experiences and some sketchy traveling, situations. From being pulled from a train at gunpoint to getting upgraded to first class. The last was the best.
When things come up while traveling, keep your peace by praying. It’s helped me so many times.
Holidays are a time for making memories and bonding, but sometimes traveling can cause more stress than joy.
The next secret to travel during the holidays is to,
Plan Ahead
If you are traveling by plane or by car, prepare ahead of time.
Start packing early to avoid stress-induced preparations at the last minute, which causes stress.
Book travel early
Book flights at least a few months in advance, especially if you’re traveling on peak days. Be flexible with your travel dates to potentially snag better deals.
One of my favorite and cheapest times to travel was December 26th and December 31st. I always found good deals on these dates during the holidays. But I generally have a flexible holiday schedule.
Book your trip sooner than later. October to November are the latest times to book for the holiday.
Airports are especially crowded during the holidays. Arrive early to check in, go through security, and avoid any last-minute dashes. During the holidays, I will show up three hours before my Flight, and if it’s international, I will go for four hours.
Now, if you are traveling to areas with severe weather, get travel insurance for your trip.
Packing Power
Pack light to avoid checked bag fees and long waits at baggage claim. Pack versatile outfits you can mix and match, and don’t forget layers for unpredictable weather.
One secret to traveling during the holidays is knowing your baggage weight so you don’t go over and have to pay. Weigh your bags before every trip so you never have to pay, or at the airport, bag check to try to switch things into other bags to avoid a fee.
Airports are significantly crowded during the holidays. Arrive early to check in, go through security, and avoid any last-minute dashes. During the holidays, I will show up three hours before my Flight, and if it’s international, I will go for four hours.
Now, if you are traveling to areas with severe weather, get travel insurance for your trip.
Now, if you’re traveling by car.
Make sure your car is ready to travel.
Check tire pressure, fluids, and wiper blades. Have a trusted mechanic check out your car for travel.
Consider getting a routine maintenance check-up for peace of mind.
My dad passed down this secret to traveling, which I have also passed down.
Get a AAA memebership.
I never leave home with my trip AAA coverage. This year alone my membership has paid for itself this year.
Have entertainment ready.
Start now and download movies, games, and e-books for your trip. Have the games on your kid’s devices.
When I travel, I like to listen to at least one e-book. My Audible Membership is my favorite travel companion. (The above is an affiliate link which means if you click on it I will be give a small commission at no cost to you or increase in the price)
Pack a portable charger to keep your devices powered up.
Embrace the Unexpected with patience.
Flexibility is Key: Remember, even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Be prepared to adjust your itinerary if needed, and try to stay calm if there are delays.
Wrap or pack gifts in your carry-on luggage to avoid lost or delayed baggage putting a damper on the festivities.
Spread Holiday Cheer
A smile, a kind word, or a helping hand can go a long way during the busy holiday season. And always be polite and ready to give grace. As Christians on light is supposed to shine where ever we go so as you travel try to keep that in mind.
Be patient with fellow travelers and airport staff, and remember the true spirit of the holidays!
With a little prayer, planning, and patience, your holiday travels can be a joyous journey.
So, grab your Santa hat, pack your cheer, and get ready for a stress-free, joyful holiday adventure!
Here are some other related articles to check out as well.
Tips to make it through the holidays without fighting
How to give grace to yourself and others
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