Stress-Free Family Travel During the Holidays: Tips for Car and Plane Trips
Family travel during the holidays—it’s exciting, chaotic, and, let’s be honest, sometimes overwhelming. I’ve been there, trying to manage snacks, suitcases, and schedules while keeping everyone happy. But here’s the good news: with some planning and a positive mindset, it is possible to travel with kids and actually enjoy the process. Whether you’re hitting the road or flying the skies, these are the tips that have made holiday travel so much smoother for me. Don’t miss the free printable travel checklist.
Start with a Positive Mindset
For years, I used to dread holiday travel. The crowds, the delays, the inevitable kid meltdowns—it all felt like too much. But then I realized that a lot of the stress came from my own expectations. Once I started focusing on what I could control, I found it so much easier to stay calm—and when I’m calm, the kids are calmer too. Holiday travel is rarely perfect, but it can still be meaningful and fun if you let it.
Car Travel Tips for Families
1. Pack Smart (and Strategically)
Packing for a road trip with kids used to feel like preparing for a weeklong expedition. Now, I’ve got it down to a system. I always pack a “within reach” bag for the car with essentials like:
- Non-messy snacks (our go-to is holiday trail mix—think pretzels, dried cranberries, and a little chocolate!)
- Spill-proof cups or water bottles
- Wipes and tissues for those inevitable spills
- A trash bag or zip-top bags for easy cleanup
- A few small toys, books, or activity kits
This bag has saved me from so many snack emergencies and backseat disasters!
2. Keep the Kids Entertained
Long car rides can feel endless without something to keep the kids busy. Here’s what works for us:
- Audiobooks and music: We love holiday-themed stories and singalongs—they make the drive feel festive.
- DIY activity kits: I pack crayons, coloring books, and stickers in a small bin for easy access.
- Car games: “I Spy” or a holiday scavenger hunt (like spotting wreaths or twinkling lights) keeps things fun and interactive.
3. Plan for Pit Stops
Kids need to move, and honestly, so do I. Planning regular stops at parks, rest areas, or even roadside attractions helps break up the monotony and gives everyone a chance to recharge.
Plane Travel Tips for Families
1. Prep for the Chaos
Flying during the holidays is its own adventure. I’ve learned to walk my kids through the process ahead of time—security checks, waiting at the gate, and the excitement of takeoff. It helps ease their nerves (and mine too). I always make sure to pack:
- TSA-friendly snacks (think crackers, granola bars, or dried fruit)
- Comfort items like a small blanket or favorite stuffed animal
- A fully charged tablet loaded with movies and games
2. Keep the Little Ones Busy
I’ve found that new and exciting activities work wonders on flights. I like to wrap a few small surprises—think stickers, puzzles, or tiny toys—and let the kids “unwrap” them during the trip. It’s like bringing a little bit of the holiday spirit onboard.
3. Handle Takeoff and Landing Like a Pro
For younger kids, the pressure changes during takeoff and landing can be tough. I always pack something for them to sip or chew, like water, juice, or lollipops. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
Holiday Travel Extras
Plan Around Nap Times
If possible, schedule travel during your child’s nap time. It’s not foolproof, but when it works, it’s pure magic. A quiet car or plane makes everyone happier.
Dress Comfortably with a Festive Touch
Comfy clothes are a must, but adding a little holiday flair—a Santa hat or festive socks—keeps the mood fun. And always pack a change of clothes for each kid and yourself. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
Bring the Holiday Cheer Along for the Ride
I love adding a festive touch to our trips, whether it’s a holiday playlist, special snacks, or even a small gift for the kids to open along the way. It makes the journey feel like part of the celebration.
When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Here’s the truth: even with all the prep in the world, things can still go sideways. Flights get delayed, traffic jams happen, and yes, meltdowns are inevitable. When that happens, I remind myself that this is just one moment—it doesn’t define the trip. Snacks, distractions, and a little humor have saved the day more times than I can count.
Family Travel Checklist for Stress-Free Holiday Trips
This handy travel checklist will help you stay organized and ready for anything while traveling with kids during the holidays. Save it to your phone or print it out for easy reference (CLICK THE LINK TO PRINT).
The Bottom Line
Holiday travel with family doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, a flexible mindset, and some festive touches, you can make the journey just as special as the destination. These trips—messy, chaotic, and wonderful—are the moments your family will remember for years to come. Safe travels and happy holidays!
