Holiday travel can be one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year, especially when airports are packed and schedules are tight. That’s why there are certain things you should always do before flying for Thanksgiving or Christmas. From planning ahead to avoiding common mistakes, these steps can make the difference between a smooth journey and a frustrating one. Taking the time to prepare properly helps reduce stress and keeps the focus where it belongs—on spending time with loved ones.
These are simple yet important habits that can help travelers handle the chaos of peak holiday travel with more confidence. Whether it’s checking flights, organizing luggage, or handling last-minute details, being ready ahead of time sets the stage for a better trip. So, before heading to the airport, make sure these steps are part of the checklist and set yourself up for a holiday season that starts off right.
Confirm Your Flight Details
Before you even head to the airport, double-check your itinerary to confirm flight times, terminals, and gate numbers. Holiday schedules are especially prone to last-minute adjustments due to weather, high demand, or operational changes. A simple mistake like going to the wrong terminal can cause unnecessary stress when airports are already packed. Use your airline’s app or website to track any updates and sign up for text alerts if available. Doing this step a day before departure and again on travel day helps prevent surprises. Confirming the details in advance puts you in control and keeps the trip smoother.
Check In Online
Checking in online is a small step that saves significant time during holiday travel. With larger crowds, airport check-in counters and kiosks can be overwhelmed. Securing your boarding pass at home or on your phone means you can head straight to security if you’re traveling with carry-ons. It also increases your chances of selecting or confirming a seat before options run out. Many airlines open check-in windows 24 hours before departure, giving you a head start. Having your boarding pass ready not only speeds up the process but also reduces stress when navigating crowded terminals during peak holiday periods.
Arrive Earlier Than Usual
Airports are busiest during Thanksgiving and Christmas, with long lines at every stage—check-in, baggage drop, and especially security. Arriving earlier than you would for a regular trip gives you a buffer in case of delays. A good rule during the holidays is arriving at least three hours before domestic flights and even earlier for international travel. This extra time allows you to get through potential congestion without worrying about missing your plane. Once past security, you can relax, grab a snack, or prepare for your flight without rushing. Giving yourself breathing room is one of the smartest holiday strategies.
Weigh and Pack Your Bags Properly
Holiday trips often mean extra gifts, bulky clothing, and more luggage than usual. Without careful packing, you risk overweight or oversized baggage fees at the airport, which can be costly. Weigh your bags at home to confirm they meet airline limits, and review the carrier’s specific rules for checked and carry-on items. Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and use packing cubes to organize. Keep gifts unwrapped, as security may need to inspect them. Proper preparation not only saves money but also avoids delays at the counter, helping you move smoothly through the busiest travel season.
Organize Travel Documents
Travel during the holidays is hectic, and the last thing you want is to scramble for your ID or boarding pass at the front of a crowded line. Gather everything you need—passport, driver’s license, tickets, and any other documents—and store them in a dedicated pouch or travel wallet. Keep this pouch in an easy-to-reach pocket so you’re not digging through bags. Having documents organized in one place saves time and lowers stress. If traveling internationally, check visa or entry requirements in advance. Simple organization makes airport navigation more efficient, freeing you to focus on getting where you need to go.
Download Entertainment and Apps
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Holiday flights often mean delays, long boarding times, or extended layovers, so having entertainment ready makes the journey smoother. Download movies, shows, podcasts, or e-books before you leave, since airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable or costly. Airline apps are also helpful for mobile boarding passes, tracking bags, and receiving real-time updates. If traveling with kids, pre-load games or educational apps to keep them occupied. Remember to download offline maps if your destination has spotty service. Preparing content in advance prevents boredom, cuts down on unnecessary charges, and keeps everyone occupied whether you’re in the air or waiting at the gate.
Charge All Devices
Few things are more frustrating than having your phone or tablet run out of battery while navigating busy airports during the holidays. Charge every device fully the night before, and don’t forget portable power banks. Outlets can be scarce at crowded gates, so a charged backup is essential. Keeping devices powered means you’ll always have access to boarding passes, gate change notifications, and entertainment. It also helps you stay in touch with friends and family while on the move. A little preparation with charging cables and spare batteries makes a huge difference in keeping travel stress under control.
Bring Snacks and Water Bottle
Airport food prices rise significantly during peak seasons, and long security lines may leave you hungry before reaching your gate. Packing snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, or fruit helps you stay energized without relying on costly airport options. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security, saving money while reducing single-use plastic waste. For families, snacks also help keep children calm during delays. Having food and water handy means fewer interruptions during your journey, and it keeps you comfortable while waiting for boarding, navigating connections, or sitting through unexpected schedule changes.
Prepare for Security Screening
Security checkpoints during Thanksgiving and Christmas can be some of the busiest of the year. To move through faster, pack liquids in regulation-sized containers and place them in a clear, accessible bag. Keep electronics ready to be removed, and wear shoes that are easy to slip off. Avoid wrapping gifts, as they may be unwrapped for inspection. Organizing your bag so that items are easy to access saves time and prevents delays. Being ready before reaching the checkpoint not only makes your experience smoother but also helps keep lines moving for everyone behind you.
Plan Ground Transportation
Holiday travel doesn’t end once you land, getting from the airport to your final destination can be just as hectic. Demand for taxis, rideshares, and shuttles spikes during Thanksgiving and Christmas, often leading to higher prices and long waits. Planning ahead avoids these issues. Pre-book a ride, research public transportation schedules, or arrange for family pickup in advance. Some airports offer flat-rate services to city centers, which can save money compared to surge pricing. Having transportation arranged before you arrive keeps your trip on track and prevents last-minute scrambling during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
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