The holidays are synonymous with travel. And whether you’re jetsetting to see family or using the extra days off as an excuse for a beach escape, you’re not the only one trying to get outta of Dodge.

Long lines, dwindling patience, and inclement weather can quickly turn your vacation into a nightmare.

But by simply using a few holiday travel tips, you can fly with the jolly demeanor of Saint Nick himself.

1. Plan Early

First and foremost, plan ahead! Ticket prices only get more expensive the longer you wait, so book early!

For the cheapest airfare, try to book on Tuesdays at 3:00pm six weeks before your departure date. And only 52% of bookings appear online, so if your flight is full try calling an agent. Speaking with an actual human can work wonders.

If you want to pay the absolute lowest price, check out these best sites for travel deals to find flights and accommodations at bargain basement prices!

Discover More Expert Travel Hacks HERE!

2. Travel During Off-Days

Not surprisingly, there will be thousands of other travelers to contend with during the holidays. To avoid the crowds, travel on off-days that are less chaotic.

The busiest travel days tend to be a day or two before a holiday, and the Sunday following. So if time permits, try to fly 3-4 days before and come back that Friday or the following Monday.

And if you really want the airport to be a ghost town, fly on Christmas Day!

3. Prepared For The Unexpected

It’s just Murphy’s Law. Something is bound to go wrong when you travel, so it’s best to plan for the unexpected.

That’s why travel insurance is key!

When flights are canceled, luggage is lost, valuables are robbed, or illnesses hit, travel insurance swoops in to save the day like a superhero with washboard abs and impossibly perfect hair. It’s not a scam, it’s a must!

And like any good Boy Scout, be prepared!

Where will you stay if your reservation is lost? What will you do if your flight is delayed? What snacks will you bring to avoid getting hangry? Asking yourself these important questions before things go awry can save you a panic-induced headache later.

4. Utilize Travel Apps

One of the best holiday travel tips that’ll make your life easier is to utilize awesome travel apps.

They can alert you to flight changes, help you find transportation, get you from Point A to Point B, assist you in packing, and even organize your entire trip!

Plus, there are photography apps that can help you capture your adventure so when you return home you can put together impressive photo albums (which make memorable gifts… Bonus!)

5. Pack Like A Pro

One of the most frustrating things about travel is checking your bag. It’s a roll of the dice as to whether you’ll ever see your belongings again and there’s nothing worse than standing around in baggage claim with everyone else you were just crammed on a plane with for hours.

Just say no!

Instead, use a few simple tricks to pack like a pro. Capitalize on every inch of space by stuffing socks and underwear in your shoes. Use packing cubes and compression bags so you can fit more in less space. Wear your bulkiest items (such as coats and boots) on the plane to avoid packing them. And bring items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.

Not Sure What To Pack? Check Out The Ultimate Winter Packing Guide HERE!

6. Avoid Long Lines

I don’t know about you, but I’m not a patient person. So when security lines wrap around and around in an endless stream of people, I’m out. That’s why I’m obsessed with programs like TSA PreCheck and Clear. They’re an absolute must for anyone who travels even somewhat frequently.

Using them, I breeze through security without a care in the world. Even on holiday weekends when the security line wraps down the hallway, I’m in and out within 5 minutes.

So instead of wasting time in line (and panicking that I won’t make it to my gate before it closes) I can kick back, relax, and enjoy a cocktail while leisurely waiting for my boarding call.

7. Embrace The Spirit Of The Season

Finally, don’t be a jerk. Realize that you aren’t the only person traveling for the holidays and others are simply trying to see loved ones and enjoy their time off too.

Yes, there will be crowds. Sure, you’ll probably get seated next to a screaming baby or someone who doesn’t understand the concept of personal space. And yes, the weather may cause delays and frazzled nerves.

But it can only be the most wonderful time of the year if you go into it with a good attitude.

Be kind to your fellow travelers, try to be helpful instead of hateful, and be thankful you have the means to travel at all.

Learn What Constitutes Good Travel Etiquette HERE!

By implementing these holiday travel tips you can avoid the inevitable headaches and enjoy your wintry getaway. Who knows! Maybe they’ll even help you keep your cool so you don’t end up with a lump of coal in your stocking this holiday season!

Ho, ho, hope you enjoy your flight!

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