The festive season is a magical time of year, but it’s also one of the busiest and most stressful periods for travellers. Airports are packed, roads are congested and delays are common.
Whether you’re jetting off to an international destination or embarking on a local road trip, a little preparation can make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Here’s how to survive — and thrive — during festive season holiday travel.
The festive season is peak travel time, which means flights, accommodation and car rentals fill up fast.
Flights: Book tickets at least 2-3 months in advance for the best deals and seat selection.
Accommodation: Reserve hotels or holiday rentals early, especially in popular holiday destinations.
Road Trip: If you’re planning a road trip, book your rental car early to avoid last-minute price hikes or availability issues. And if you’re using your own car, make sure you get your car serviced and tyres checked in advance, as service centres can get busy during the holidays.
Pro Tip: Use fare comparison websites and set price alerts to track flight and hotel / B&B prices. For road trips with kids, invest in a back-of-seat organiser that can store all their goods for activities (like colouring pens, games, etc.). Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
Travelling on peak days can be chaotic and expensive. Consider the best days to travel:
For Flights: Flying on Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve can be less crowded and more affordable.
For Road Trips: Depart a few days before the holiday rush or travel early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic.
Pro Tip: Avoid travelling on the Friday before Christmas or the day after New Year’s, as these are typically the busiest travel days.
Packing efficiently can save you time and stress during your journey.
For Flights: Stick to carry-on luggage if possible to avoid checked baggage fees and lost luggage. Pack a change of clothes, travel-sized toiletries, and any essential medications in your carry-on.
For Road Trips: Bring a roadside emergency kit, including jumper cables, a flashlight and a first-aid kit. Also pack snacks, water and entertainment for long drives.
Pro Tip: Use packing cubes to organise your belongings and maximise space. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
Airport security lines can be long during the holiday season. Make the queues as painless as possible by:
Pro Tip: If you’re travelling to the USA, enrol in TSA PreCheck or, if available for other countries, a similar expedited security program for quicker screening. Ask your Sure Travel Agent for details on your destination country’s requirements and pre-check (if available) website link when you book.
Staying updated on travel conditions can help you avoid delays and disruptions.
For Flights: Download your airline’s app for real-time updates on flight status, gate changes and baggage tracking. Sign up for text or email alerts from your airline and airport.
For Road Trips: Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to get real-time traffic updates and alternative routes. Also be sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave.
Pro Tip: Invest in a portable phone charger to keep your devices powered throughout your journey. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
The holiday season means longer lines, busier airports and heavier traffic.
For Flights: Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international flights.
For Road Trips: Add extra time to your estimated travel duration to account for traffic and rest stops.
Pro Tip: If travelling with children, factor in time for additional breaks for meals, bathroom stops and stretching.
Travelling during the holidays can take a toll on your health and well-being.
For Flights: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol. Be sure to stretch your legs and walk around the cabin during long flights.
For Road Trips: Take regular breaks to stretch and move around to prevent stiffness and fatigue. Remember to pack healthy snacks like fruits, nuts and granola bars to maintain your energy.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and bring a neck pillow or blanket for added comfort. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
Delays are common during the holiday season, so it’s essential to have a backup plan.
For Flights: Bring a book, a Kindle, downloaded movies or TV shows, and pack portable games to keep yourself and your family entertained. Also be sure to know your airline’s policy on rebooking and compensation in case of delays or cancellations.
For Road Trips: Have alternative routes mapped out in case of road closures or traffic jams. Keep an emergency contact list handy in case of roadside issues.
Pro Tip: Always be sure to get travel insurance to cover unexpected delays, cancellations or medical emergencies, especially if you’re travelling internationally. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
Travelling during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. Embrace the festive atmosphere and make the most of your journey.
For Flights: Prepare yourself to give into Boney-M and Mariah and just enjoy holiday-themed decorations, music and special treats at airports and onboard flights.
For Road Trips: Plan stops at holiday light displays, festive markets, or winter wonderlands along your route.
Pro Tip: Pack small holiday treats or gifts to surprise your travel companions and spread cheer during your journey. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
Despite the best-laid plans, holiday travel can be unpredictable. Stay flexible, patient and positive, and remember that the journey is part of the adventure.
Pro Tip: Keep a sense of humour and focus on the joy of the season, even if things don’t go as planned. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for expert assistance with stress-free holiday travel.
With a bit of preparation and a positive mindset, holiday travel can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re flying across the globe or hitting the road for a local getaway, these tips will help you navigate the festive season with ease.
For absolute peace of mind during your festive season travels, contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent to book a stress-free holiday.
