There’s a good reason there are dozens of holiday movies that focus on the perils of travel – it can be super stressful! Between inclement weather, crowded roads and terminals, and impatient children, there are a number of pitfalls to avoid. Here are our tips for making holiday travel plans as painless as possible!

Entertain the Kids

Regardless of your usual screen time policy, long drives and flights are the times to let little ones indulge in their favorite shows or games. Don’t forget to bring chargers, extra batteries, and headphones too.

Cushion Your Time

Due to crowds and weather, traveling during the holidays can face many holdups. Not only should you allow for extra time overall, but also be sure to avoid tight layovers. There is nothing worse than missing your connecting flight, and this is all-too-likely with delayed holiday flights.

Stay Healthy

Planes and trains are breeding grounds for illness, so be sure to plan ahead to stay shielded. Make sure the whole family has received a flu shot, pack plenty of hand sanitizer, and of course – wash those hands!

Get an Early Start

Early mornings are a magical time when flights are less likely to be delayed and roads are less likely to be congested. Take advantage of this and leave early! Be sure to have everything packed and ready to go the night before, so that the early wake-up call isn’t too painful!