The holiday travel season is almost upon us which means it’s time to relax and reconnect with friends and family, to reflect on the year past, and to make plans for the year ahead. But getting there can be, well, challenging. Holiday travel is notorious for being crowded, stressful, and rife with delays and cancellations.
So, how can you get to the people you love most while keeping your sanity, despite all the stress-inducing obstacles holiday travel tries to throw your way? We’ve got you covered with our top tips for surviving holiday travel.
Flytographer: Gonçalo in Paris
1. Make lists
Lists are your friend, especially during potentially stressful times. Making a thorough list and checking it multiple times is an almost foolproof way to ensure you don’t leave anything essential at home, like your passport or your camera. If you’re not into lists of the paper variety, try downloading an app like Trello or Evernote and rest easy knowing you won’t leave anything at home this holiday season.
Flytographer Anthony in Québec City
2. Practice mindfulness techniques
The mind is a terrible thing to waste, but it’s hard to avoid becoming preoccupied thinking about that endless line through security or to your gate or, heck, even to the airport Starbucks. If you’re feeling your temperature rise thanks to hefty airport crowds, just breathe. Yep, it’s that simple. Many airports now have meditation and yoga rooms, but if you can’t break away from a queue, do the next best thing and prep yourself with a charged phone, headphones, and a meditation app. The Buddhify app allows meditation options targeted at exactly what is stressing you. Might we suggest the travelling and waiting around options?
Flytographer Alanna in Whistler
Flytographer Veronika in Zürich
3. Stay hydrated
If you’re travelling with kids, you’re probably used to packing a stockpile of snacks. But adults travelling solo should take note. Hangry has no age limit! Bringing a reusable water bottle and plenty of snacks will ensure you’re less likely to get cranky looking for hydration or fuel and more likely to remain your calm, happy self. (Don’t forget to add these to your packing checklist.)
Flytographer Michael in Chicago
4. Comfort is key
The holiday season is not the time to try wearing heels to the airport. We assure you – it is not a good idea. Wear your most comfortable shoes that will hold up to potential hours of standing around. And if you don’t have a pair of shoes that fits the bill, invest in one. Packing a huge comfy scarf that can double as a blanket for chilly airports and flights is a great idea, too.
Flytographer Tracey in Toronto
5. Stay happy
What gives you that pick-me-up you need when you’re feeling a little blah? Add it to your travel essentials, stat. It could be your favourite red lipstick, an upbeat song loaded up and ready to go on your phone, or a scented hand lotion that instantly transports you to summer beach days. Whatever it is, pack it.
Flytographer Whitney in Portland
See more: Boston – Budapest – Chicago – couples – family – NYC – Portland – Québec City – Top 5 – Whistler – Zürich
