Navigating airports and airplanes during the holidays can become stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Flight attendants, the seasoned professionals of the skies, have shared their best advice for surviving the year’s busiest travel season. From planning to staying calm in flight, these expert tips can make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Plan for a Smooth Start
Give Yourself a Buffer Day
- One of the most important tips is to avoid last-minute travel. Flight attendant Hunter Smith-Lihas advises giving yourself at least one buffer day before a major event. “A canceled flight doesn’t have to mean a canceled Christmas if you’ve planned,” he says. This extra day allows for rebooking options if unexpected weather or other issues arise.
Don’t Skimp on Layover Time
- When booking connecting flights, avoid tight layovers. Smith-Lihas recommends at least 90 minutes between flights, especially if traveling internationally, where customs or immigration can interrupt time. “Many people book connections with less than 45 minutes, which is rarely enough time,” he warns. Missing a connecting flight can ruin an otherwise well-planned trip.
Book Smart
- For those still looking for a last-minute deal, avoid peak travel days like weekends and opt for midweek flights. Veteran flight attendant Liz Simmons emphasizes the importance of booking directly with the airline. While third-party travel websites can be tempting, they often come with complications, like tighter connections or limited support if changes are needed.
Check Your Passport Early
- International travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the travel date. Many countries enforce this rule, and being turned away at the airport is an unnecessary stressor.
Timing Is Everything
Fly Early in the Day
- Booking the day’s first flight is a smart strategy for avoiding delays. “Delays and cancellations tend to stack as the day goes on,” says Simmons. If your flight is canceled, flying early gives you a better chance to rebook the same day.
Consider Your Kids’ Needs
- Timing flights around nap schedules can make a difference for parents flying with young children. “An overtired child can lead to a stressful travel experience,” Simmons notes. Planning around their natural rhythm can help reduce mid-flight meltdowns.
Packing Tips for the Holidays
Travel Light
- Packing light is an art flight attendants swear by. Simmons recommends a single, small, well-organized carry-on. This strategy reduces stress at check-in and minimizes the risk of losing your luggage. Avoiding checked baggage queues during the busy holiday season can save valuable time.
Use Smart Luggage Tools
- If checking a bag is unavoidable, Smith-Lihas suggests investing in a tracking device like Apple’s AirTag. “It’s worth the extra dollars for peace of mind,” he says, recounting how it helped him locate a misplaced bag on a trip to Greece.
Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On
- Keep important items such as medications, gifts, and a change of clothes in your carry-on. If your checked luggage is delayed, having these essentials ensures you’re not left stranded without necessities.
