How to Avoid Holiday Travel Nightmares

The holiday season is traditionally a busy travel time of the year and is often the source of stress. For many people, the thought of packing up the kids, and a good deal of their belongings, for the excruciating trip to grandma's house brings a sense of dread. Luckily, this can be avoided with a little preparation and planning. Below I have outlined some tips on how to plan your holiday trip and avoid any possible bloodshed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Travel plan outline
• Names and information on who will be going
• Map of route
• Patience

1. 

   Plan your trip.
   Begin by planning the details of your trip. Make a list of who will be going with you, how you plan to get there and any special considerations that will need to be taken into account. This information will help you best plan the mode and method of your travel. It will also help identify any possible issues or problems that might arise during your trip. Correcting these issues in advance will help your trip go much more smoothly.

2. 

   Prepare your car for the trip.
   Using the list you prepared in Step 1, make another list of items that you will need for a long trip on the road. Beyond suitcases and presents, consider items that will make the trip easier.
   Items such as travel games, books, drawing supplies, video games or movies will keep the kids busy during the long trip. If they're happy and quiet, you will be much more relaxed.
   Pack a cooler with some snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy and avoid unnecessary stops along the way. A picnic lunch is also a great way to unwind during the trip and save a little money.

3. 

   Plan a trip by air.
   Air travel can offer a quick and efficient way to travel to your destination. Unfortunately, it can also present some possible travel problems that will increase your holiday travel stress.
   Investigate schedule options that will allow you to travel during less crowded times. Less congestion means shorter lines, which will make your travel more fun.
   Consider airports that may be less crowded and are easily accessible to your destination. For example, St. Petersburg International Airport (Florida) is much less crowded than Tampa International Airport, yet it is only a few miles away.

4. 

   Consider other travel options.
   Alternative options might include travel by train, bus or boat. Mass transit will relieve you of most of the travel concerns and allow you to enjoy the trip. Many train routes offer scenic views and the ability to relax during your trip.

Tips & Warnings

• For car trips, have your mechanic give your car a checkup to avoid possible breakdowns or delays.
• Consider shipping boxes of presents to your destination to reduce your travel load.
• Air travel is less hectic on Tuesday and Thursday.
• Amtrak offers a Auto Train service that will transport both your family and your car, thus avoiding a lot of crowded highways.
• For air travel, pack items to entertain the kids during flight delays or layovers.
• Don't pack a lot of drinks for a car trip. This might increase the number of unscheduled stops.
• Air travel during the holidays is always subject to delays due to congestion or weather. Consider this when making plans.
• The holidays are a busy season for the Highway Patrol and other police departments. Watch your speed to avoid an early Christmas present.

Resources

• AAA

[Kilogramm]

on 9/23/2008 These are great tips!