The holidays are one of the busiest times of the year for travel, and when you’re planning to join the crowds, it’s best to be prepared for the unique challenges and excitement. Whether you’re visiting family, hitting the slopes, or taking a well-deserved break, here’s a rundown of what to expect when traveling over the holidays:

1. Crowded Airports and Long Security Lines

The holidays bring a surge of travelers, so be ready for packed airports and longer wait times at security 🤯. Arriving earlier than usual (at least 2-3 hours before your flight) can save you stress. Some airlines recommend even earlier check-ins during peak holiday days. Keep an eye on your flight status for delays, which tend to spike during the holidays due to both the volume of travelers and those delightful winter weather conditions.

2. Higher Prices on Everything – yay!

From flights to hotel rooms, travel prices skyrocket 🚀 over the holiday season. The algorithm is tuned in! If you haven’t secured travel arrangements yet, prepare for sticker shock. It’s not just airfare – car rentals, hotel, and even food can cost more. Plan to compare prices across multiple booking sites and to book as early as possible to snag the best deals. Flexibility with dates can also help – often times flying a day earlier or later can make a big difference.

3. Weather Delays and Cancellations

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, and that means flights can get delayed or canceled. Make sure to keep a close watch on the weather for your departure and destination cities. Always have a backup plan – this might mean booking a hotel near the airport just in case or knowing which airline you can quickly switch to if you need to rebook. Travel insurance can also offer some much appreciated peace of mind.

4. Limited Airport Services

If you’re traveling on major holidays like Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve, be aware that many airport services may be limited. Restaurants, shops, and lounges might have reduced hours or be closed entirely. It’s a good idea to pack snacks, especially if you have a long layover or are flying through smaller airports where options might be more limited. Also, keep in mind that transportation options like airport shuttles or rides hares might be harder to come by, so plan ahead.

5. Increased Health and Safety Measures

Many airports and airlines still maintain heightened health and safety protocols during peak travel seasons. To streamline your trip, make sure you’re aware of any COVID-19 or flu precautions at your destination. Also, be prepared with your own sanitizer, masks, and some disinfectant wipes to use during the flight.

6. Family-Friendly Vibes Everywhere 🫶

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be in good company – lots of families use the holidays to travel. This means airports, planes, and even your hotel may be filled with children and holiday cheer. Look out for holiday – themed activities at airports (some even have Santa meet – and – greets!). But it also means that things can get a little chaotic and noisy. If you’re looking for some quiet time, be sure to bring noise-canceling headphones or find a peaceful corner at the airport.

7. Holiday Spirit and Festive Atmospheres

One of the best parts of traveling over the holidays is experiencing the festive mood that’s everywhere! From the decorations at the airport to special holiday offerings on flights, you’ll feel the season’s spirit. If you’re lucky, some airlines hand out special treats like cookies or candy canes. Hotels and resorts often go the extra mile with holiday decorations, themed events, and even live music or caroling. Embrace the holiday cheer – it’s all part of the fun!

Traveling during the holidays can be hectic, but with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be a special and memorable time. Expect a bit of chaos, go with the flow, and don’t forget to enjoy the festive vibe. Safe travels 🗺️

We know how important vacations are to you.  From the excitement and anticipation before you leave, to the memorable experiences you will have with friends and family, we are with you the entire journey.  We invite you to schedule a call with us to tap into our expertise and to get the planning started.