5 Tips to Alleviate the Stress of Holiday Travel

The holiday season is upon us and with it comes the good and the not so good. Without a doubt, one of the most stressful parts of the holiday season is the travel. Sometimes there are long delays or flight cancellations. The long lines, traffic congestion, and crowds of other travelers trying to get home for the holidays can increase your stress levels. Trying to keep your cool can be a challenge. While you can’t control the gridlock or the wait times, there are things that you can do in preparation of the high travel season that will make things a little calmer and perhaps more enjoyable. 

1.Pack a lot of Patience 

This is the season of perpetual hope, but not the season to be shocked by the volume of travelers doing exactly what you’re doing. You might be one of the lucky ones that breezes through security and has a taxi waiting to take you to your destination. No matter what, be patient. Transportation employees are all working towards the same goal – getting you home so they can go home. Instead of frustration, try appreciation. This is for you and for all those around you. So, pack your patience and watch things go seamless.   

2.Plan Ahead 

You can book your car service, hotels, flights, trains, buses and Airbnb right from your phone. Save yourself the last-minute search for a car or place to stay. Book your holiday travel now. Don’t forget restaurant reservations. You’re not the only one looking for a cozy place to wine and dine. Do some research of anything festive going on at your destination. Check to see if you need to make a reservation or purchase advance tickets. Do your planning early to avoid the scramble to find transportation or a place to eat.

3. The Early Bird

Listen to your travel holiday advisories and get to your travel station or airport 30 minutes to one hour earlier than normal. Many choose to ignore this because in the past they’ve been lucky and made it just in time. In a time when flights and bookings are sold out, there’s no reason to risk ruining the holidays, especially when there’s so much to do at the airport these days. Last minute shoppers can head to the shops and pick up some local swag, a best seller, or unique gifts at the airport retailers. Shopping all done? There are plenty of things to do to kill time while you wait. Do your research and see if your airport has a massage or mani-pedi station. 

4.The Welcome Distractions 

Ready your downloaded content with all the podcasts, tv shows and movies you’ve been meaning to listen to or watch. Flight delays means one more episode. Long lines mean you’ve got more time with your audio book. Technology has made it easy to stay entertained on the go. Remember to bring your Samsara carry-on so you can charge all your electronic devices while you binge at the gate!

5.Treat Yourself 

Smell something good that’s rich with sugar and calories? Go ahead and treat yourself! You traveled during the holidays and that deserves a hot chocolate, glass of champagne or indulgent pastry. You’ve bought for everyone else on your list. Now it’s time to do something nice for yourself.