Holiday Travel Tips from Travel Editors
The leaves have fallen and a chill is in the air, which means ‘tis the season of holiday travel. Whether closing out the year with family and friends or squeezing in one final vacation, traveling during this busy season requires some extra preparation. We polled our editors to compile the top holiday travel tips to keep your trip feeling merry and bright.
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Skip the Gift Wrap & Pack Extra Light
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Get to the Airport Early & Avoid Holiday Illnesses
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Travel on Off-Peak Days & Get Road Trip Ready
If you’re flying this season, don’t wrap your gifts before takeoff. TSA officers may need to unwrap gifts for additional inspection when you move through the security checkpoint, so it's best to wait until you've arrived to start decorating your packages. If you absolutely must wrap your gifts before departure, opt for gift bags that are easily rewrappable. Alternatively, avoid the struggle altogether—and save some luggage space—by shipping your gifts ahead of time.
Also, remember to factor gift exchanges into your packing strategy . Pack light and leave room for any extra goodies you may acquire at your destination.
Carol McPherson, SmarterTravel Senior Editor
The days surrounding the winter holidays are among the busiest times to fly. Arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes before you usually do, as traffic may be heavier and security lines are generally longer.
The festive season also coincides with the cold and flu season . Pack sanitizing wipes and wipe down your airplane seat, seatback TV, and the air vent above your seat to prevent catching a holiday virus.
Caroline Teel, SmarterTravel Executive Editor
If you plan to drive home for the holidays, consider avoiding heavy traffic by traveling on the holiday itself. If your destination is too far for a same-day commute, travel as far in advance as possible to avoid the holiday rush and potential weather delays.
When it comes to flying, the rule holds—it's cheapest to fly on the holiday itself. According to data from NerdWallet , the best days to travel before Thanksgiving this year are the Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday preceding the holiday, while the best day to travel before Christmas is December 18th.
If you do decide to hit the road, make sure your tires are sufficiently inflated (cold weather can cause low tire pressure), your spare tire is at the ready, and your car's emergency kit is fully stocked.
Megan Johnson, SmarterTravel Senior Editor