Holiday Travel Tips for a Successful End-of-Year Getaway

Believe it or not, the holiday season will be here before you know it. It’s time to start thinking about your holiday travel if you’re planning to visit relatives, or if you’re planning a vacation around Thanksgiving or Christmas. Planning a vacation during the holiday season can be a bit more challenging due to increased travel demand and the possibility of price increases. Here are some holiday travel tips to help ensure you have a successful getaway!

Start Planning Early

The earlier you start planning, the better. Holiday season travel gets booked quickly, so securing flights, accommodations, and activities well in advance will give you better options and potentially save you money. Planning early allows you to have the most options, so you can compare prices and availability to ensure your trip stays within your travel budget.

It Pays to Be Flexible

Holiday travel isn’t always something you can be flexible with, but if you can, it will open up more opportunities for you. If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, you may be able to find more affordable options, as prices tend to be lower on non-peak days. This may mean traveling a little before or a little after big holiday dates, but it can make for a less stressful travel experience overall.

Additionally, it’s worth it to consider off-peak destinations during the holiday season. Instead of opting for the most popular and crowded destinations during the holidays, consider less crowded destinations that can offer unique experiences without overwhelming crowds.

Set Your Budget and Stick to It

Holiday travel can be expensive, so before planning your getaway, determine how much you are willing to spend for the trip. Be mindful of potential hidden costs and set aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses. If you want to be sure to save big on deluxe accommodations, shop our selection of vacation packages in top destinations that are ideal for a holiday vacation.

Consider the Possibility of Delays

Holiday season travel can be affected by weather disruptions and increased passenger volumes. Plan for potential flight delays or other transportation issues by giving yourself some buffer time in your itinerary. To avoid delays, avoid peak travel dates like the day before Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. These are usually the most chaotic and busy travel days.

Pack With Gifts in Mind

Avoid overpacking, especially if you plan to bring gifts with you or expect to bring gifts back home. It may even be smart to ship gifts ahead of time to avoid packing them all together. Many airlines have luggage restrictions, and excess baggage fees can add up quickly. Even if you are not packing gifts or plan to return with any, packing light is helpful to save time and money when you travel.