Holiday travel can be a fun, exciting experience, but it can also be tricky to navigate. To make sure you and your family have a safe, comfortable trip and arrive at your destination in one piece, it's important to be aware of some common mistakes people make when traveling during the holidays.
1) Not planning ahead
One of the biggest mistakes people make when planning holiday travel is not giving themselves enough time to plan. Not only should travelers research their destination and appropriate travel methods well in advance, but they should also book accommodations and transportation as soon as possible. This will ensure that they're able to lock down the best deals for flights, hotels, rental cars, etc., rather than leaving things to the last minute and being stuck with what's left.
Note: These travel apps and travel hacks are all you need to plan your holiday travel and stay organized.
2) Not packing the right items
Another common mistake travelers make is not packing the right items for their trip. Be sure to account for weather conditions, activities, and any necessary documents like passports or visas when making your packing list. This can save a lot of stress and hassle when you arrive at your destination. Also, don't forget to bring snacks, entertainment items (like books or games) for your journey, and any medications you might need.
Note: These travel accessories and travel notebooks can help you keep your items organized, so you don't overpack and don't leave essential items behind.
3) Not budgeting for holiday travel
Many travelers don't take into account the additional expenses associated with traveling for the holidays. Instead of estimating the costs of plane tickets and accommodations, travelers should also factor in additional fees such as baggage check-in or parking. It's also worth noting that flights are up 39% around Christmas, so it's important to plan and budget accordingly.
Note: Here are some budget travel tips to make sure your holiday trip doesn't break the bank.
4) Trying to do too much in one trip
It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of holiday travel, but it's good to remember that trying to cram too much into a single trip can be exhausting and overwhelming, often leading some travelers to take a vacation from the vacation! To avoid over-exertion, it's best to plan out a few days of activities that you can enjoy at a leisurely pace, rather than taking in the entire city in a single day. One way to do this is to set aside a few morning hours for one activity, leave the early afternoon hours for relaxing, and then use the evening hours for more fun activities.
Note: These free travel itinerary templates from Canva can help you plan out your days and make sure you don't bite off more than you can chew.
5) Forgetting to take safety precautions
Finally, it's important to remember that you're responsible for your safety as a traveler, no matter how far you're going. This means staying alert and aware of your surroundings, keeping important items like passports and wallets close, and avoiding poorly lit areas. Additionally, you should always check the security protocols at your hotel or hostel before booking to ensure that your stay is as safe and secure as possible.
Note: These ten tips for traveling safely can help you stay secure and vigilant during holiday travel.
Recap of the 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Traveling During the Holidays
1) Not planning ahead
2) Not packing the right items
3) Not budgeting for holiday travel
4) Trying to do too much in one trip
5) Forgetting to take safety precautions.
By planning carefully, budgeting appropriately, and staying safe, travelers can avoid these common mistakes and ensure that their holiday travel is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
Happy holidays!
