The festive season is a time for joy and coming together to celebrate family. It usually means that people are off to see loved ones or heading to the holiday destination of their dreams to end the year on a high.

However, navigating this bustling travel season can sometimes be highly daunting.

At Trtl Travel, we understand the importance of a stress-free journey, especially during this special time of year. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to surviving the Christmas season with our 7 top tips to making it less stressful!

What is Christmas travel?

With the festivities just around the corner, Christmas travel refers to a journey during December — whether it’s jetting off to a colder destination or visiting family and loved ones. It’s a time when many people around the world take a break from their daily routines to embrace the spirit of Christmas and create lasting memories. 

During the month of December, UK drivers will embark on an estimated 20 million car trips to see friends and family in the run-up to Christmas, with 7.9 million journeys to be made over the two days before Christmas Day. And according to The Association of British Travel Agents,  almost a third of people plan to travel abroad during the winter.

Why can Christmas travel be so stressful?

Christmas travel, while filled with the promise of joy and togetherness, can also be quite stressful for various reasons. These include:

• High demand and large crowds — December is one of the busiest travel months of the year. Whether you're flying, taking a train, or hitting the road, you're likely to encounter larger crowds, longer lines, and higher demand for transportation and accommodations. This can lead to stress and frustration, especially if you’ve got a tight schedule to stick to.
  
  
• Weather challenges — Traveling to a colder destination can be magical but also means contending with winter weather conditions. Snowstorms, icy roads, and flight delays are not uncommon during this time of year, which can disrupt travel plans and lead to unexpected complications.
  
  
• The last-minute rush — Many people tend to leave their Christmas travel plans until the last minute, which can result in limited availability for flights, accommodations, and transportation options. This last-minute rush can add stress as you scramble to secure the best options for your trip.
  
  
• Packing and planning — Preparing for Christmas travel involves more than packing your suitcase. You may also need to shop for gifts, wrap them, and ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as passports or travel tickets. The festive season can be busy with parties and preparations, leaving little time for these essential tasks. And remember to always know your baggage limits — the last thing you want to do is have to sacrifice a present or clothes to make sure your bag is within the weight limit.
  
  
• Family dynamics — Traveling to see family can be emotionally charged, as it often involves navigating complex family dynamics. From deciding which relatives to visit to coordinating schedules and dealing with potential conflicts, these interpersonal aspects can add stress to the experience.

Despite these challenges, many people still find the rewards of Christmas travel well worth the effort. It's important to plan ahead, stay flexible, and keep in mind the true spirit of the season – the joy of spending time with loved ones and creating lasting memories.

Top tips for stress-free Christmas travel

When it comes down to it, we all want a stress-free Christmas. Whether it’s travelling to a winter destination just before the festivities start or spending the holidays with family, here are a few useful tips:

1. Avoid the busiest travel days

To minimise crowds and potential travel hiccups, consider travelling on less congested days. If possible, plan your trip to depart a few days before or after the peak holiday travel dates to enjoy a smoother journey. According to nerdwallet, in 2022, 21 December was the busiest day for travel leading up to Christmas, and 27 December was the busiest day to fly in the seven days after Christmas.

2. Track your luggage with GPS

Losing your luggage can be a major source of anxiety during travel. To ease this worry, invest in luggage tags or devices equipped with GPS tracking, such as an Apple AirTag or a Tile Tracker. Should your baggage go astray, you can easily locate it (or at least see where its last location is!) and deal with the issue from there.

3. Plan ahead and book early

Early planning is key to securing the best travel options and accommodations. Popular destinations and flights to places like New York tend to fill up quickly during the winter months. Booking well in advance not only helps you secure your preferences but also reduces the stress of last-minute scrambling.

4. Stay informed about the weather conditions

Keep an eye on weather forecasts for both your departure and arrival locations. Staying informed about potential weather-related disruptions allows you to plan accordingly. You can adjust your schedule, pack appropriate clothing, and even have contingency plans in case of severe weather.

5. Stay flexible and patient

Delays and unforeseen changes can happen due to weather, airport and road congestion and more, so making sure that you’re flexible and patient can really help ease any worries you have. 

Accepting that things can happen and that they’re not going to derail all of your plans means you can navigate these challenges with less stress.

6. Be prepared for delays

One of the worst things that can happen is being delayed. Whether it’s stuck in traffic on the motorway or a delay to your train or flight, making sure you’re prepared is vital.

Pack any essential items in a carry-on bag or a bag that you can easily reach in the car. Include a change of clothes, any medication you need to take, snacks, charges for any electronic devices and any important documents.

7. Be awake for the moments that matter

Travel can be tiring, especially during the festive season when there’s so much to do. With the Trtl Pillow Original, you can be comfortable no matter where you are. It’s designed to help relieve stress on your spine and muscles so you can remain relaxed and at ease for those longer trips. This will also allow you to feel refreshed once you reach your destination, meaning you can enjoy and spend more time with your loved ones.

Where are the best places to travel at Christmas?

If you’re looking for some destination inspiration for festive travel, then look no further.

1. Lapland

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is like stepping into a Christmas fairy tale. It's renowned as the official home of Santa Claus, and visiting during the festive season is an enchanting experience. 

Imagine taking husky sledge rides through pristine landscapes and witnessing the ethereal Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky. Lapland offers the perfect blend of adventure and magic for a truly unforgettable Christmas adventure.

2. New York City

The city that never sleeps, New York becomes a mesmerising holiday wonderland during Christmas. The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is a must-see, and ice skating beneath it is a quintessential New York experience. Strolling along Fifth Avenue, you'll be dazzled by the elaborate holiday window displays of famous department stores. Plus, catching a Broadway show or simply sipping hot chocolate in Central Park while enjoying the crisp winter air adds to the festive charm.

3. Reykjavik

Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, offers a unique Christmas experience amidst its stunning natural beauty. The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa, provides a soothing escape from the cold, while the chance to witness the Northern Lights is a dream come true for many. 

The city itself is adorned with sparkling lights, and its cosy cafes and restaurants serve Icelandic delicacies to warm your soul. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a winter wonderland.

4. Quebec

Quebec City, in Canada's province of Quebec, takes you back in time during the Christmas season. The historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is transformed into a picturesque European-style Christmas village. Cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops and artisanal boutiques, and the German Christmas Market is a highlight where you can enjoy traditional treats and browse handcrafted gifts. The city's blend of French and Canadian cultures adds a unique flavour to your festive experience.

5. Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland, is a magical destination for Christmas enthusiasts. The city's historic architecture, including the stunning Edinburgh Castle, is bathed in festive decorations. The Christmas market in the heart of the city offers mulled wine, seasonal foods, and an array of unique crafts. You can even take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, where thousands of twinkling lights create a captivating illuminated trail.

6. Vienna

Vienna, Austria, is renowned for its opulent Christmas markets. These markets offer an array of delightful experiences, from sipping mulled wine and indulging in traditional Austrian treats to finding one-of-a-kind gifts among the handcrafted stalls. The city's grand palaces and historic sites, such as Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace, are beautifully adorned with lights and decorations, creating a fairy-tale-like ambience perfect for the holiday season.

7. Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan, may not have a deep-rooted Christmas tradition, but it has embraced the spirit of the season in its unique way. The city dazzles with mesmerising illuminations and colourful decorations that transform its streets and buildings into a winter wonderland. 

You can explore the festive displays, enjoy seasonal treats like Christmas cake and fried chicken, and even participate in special holiday-themed events and activities.

How can you stay informed about potential travel disruptions during Christmas?

Staying informed about potential travel disruptions can be a life saviour when travelling over Christmas.

• Sign up for alerts — Many travel companies and airlines offer alert services that notify you of flight delays, cancellations or other essential travel updates like road accidents. Signing up for these alerts ensures you receive timely information directly to your inbox!
  
  
• Check your travel company's website — Keep an eye on your chosen travel company's website for real-time updates on your travel itinerary. Airlines and train companies often provide up-to-date information on their websites, including any changes to schedules or delays.
  
  
• Keep up to date on social media — The same can be said for social media. Follow your airline, airport, train company, or motorway update accounts on platforms like Twitter and Facebook. These accounts frequently post travel advisories, weather-related updates, and updates from people who may be stuck in traffic already.

What should you pack for a winter trip?

If you’re heading for a Christmas getaway, knowing what to pack for a winter trip can be difficult when there’s so much you need to take with you. Whether you’re heading for a European Christmas market or taking to the slopes, here are some of your must-haves:

• Thermals — These are a must-have for staying warm in cold weather. These lightweight, insulating layers trap body heat and provide an extra level of warmth without adding bulk. They’re perfect for wearing under your regular clothing to keep you cosy when the temperatures drop.
  
  
• Jumpers and sweatshirts — Pack a selection of warm jumpers or sweatshirts to layer over your thermals or regular tops. Opt for materials like wool or fleece, which are excellent at retaining heat. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing according to the temperature, allowing you to stay comfortable indoors or outdoors.
  
  
• Useful footwear — The right footwear is crucial for a winter trip. Insulated and waterproof boots or shoes are ideal for keeping your feet warm and dry. Look for options with good traction to prevent slips on icy or snowy surfaces. Don't forget to pack warm socks, such as wool or thermal socks, to keep your feet snug.

Travel the right way with Trtl Travel

Travelling over and during Christmas can be stressful, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s also important that you remain in complete comfort wherever you are, and that’s why our travel pillows will leave you feeling refreshed at your destination, whether it’s a quick trip of a few hours or a long-haul flight.  

To find out more helpful tips and tricks for all things flying, check out our blog page.