A trip to visit loved ones or a holiday-themed vacation with your nearest and dearest can create magical memories, but first, you’ve got to get there. If the thought of holiday travel makes you nauseous, rest assured that a little planning and the right resources can help your festive getaway go smoother.
Overcome the hustle and bustle of the busiest travel season of the year with this expert advice.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ILLNESSES
The holidays intertwine with cold and flu season, meaning staying healthy on your trip is a must. Travel can be physically draining, which makes you more susceptible to common illnesses. However, some general health tips can go a long way, such as:
- Wash your hands: Between plane rides, rental cars and hotel rooms, you’re going to handle frequently touched objects in public spaces. Carry hand sanitizer and be sure to thoroughly wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
- Pack medications: It’s critical to pack prescribed medications, no doubt, but consider bringing along over-the-counter vitamins and cold medicine so you’re prepared for anything.
- Consult your doctor: Ask your doctor about any vaccinations you may need, especially if traveling internationally. It’s important to get all recommended shots and treatments prior to departure.
BE PREPARED FOR DELAYS
Spontaneous moments are often the most memorable, but sometimes unplanned events aren’t so welcome. Because it’s nearly impossible for an entire vacation to go as scripted, consider purchasing a travel protection plan that includes the travel inconvenience benefit. This benefit may compensate you for unforeseen circumstances like tarmac delays or ski resort closures. Hang on to receipts that show dates and payments to make the claim process a breeze.
OVERCOME JET LAG
Air travel can disrupt sleep patterns, particularly if you’re flying across multiple time zones, causing difficulty sleeping and irritability. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol intake, which can further impact sleep patterns. Exposure to light at the appropriate times can help reset your circadian rhythm while a low-dose melatonin can produce mild sleepiness if you’re having trouble catching some Z’s.
Traveling west is easiest on your internal clock as you “gain time” heading westward; in contrast, flying east requires shifting the timing of your body clock to make up for the “lost time.” Leading up to eastward travel, try going to bed and waking up earlier.
HAVE A BACKUP PLAN
Even the best travel plans can change unexpectedly. Standard trip cancellation coverage often applies only to specific events, such as illness, injury, or natural disasters. For travelers seeking extra peace of mind, consider looking into optional add-ons like “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage, which can offer broader protection and flexibility if your plans shift.
If you’re someone who travels frequently—especially during the busy holiday season—an annual travel insurance plan might be worth exploring. These plans can provide coverage for multiple trips throughout the year, often including trip cancellation, emergency medical expenses, and other unexpected disruptions.
Before purchasing, always review the fine print to understand what is and isn’t covered, including any limits, exclusions, or requirements that may apply.
