14 Ways to Reduce Stress When Traveling Over The Holidays​

It’s crunch time – the cold has set in and the Holidays are fast approaching. This is the time of year where stress levels peak. Whether your stress is coming from family pressure, family drama, large workloads or simply from the overwhelming amount of activities, dinners, parties, planning and events you must attend, one thing is for sure; tension will soar! However, it’s important to not let this stress impede your experience of the Holidays! Have a look at these 14 ways to reduce stress when traveling over the Holidays to see if there’s anything you could be doing to help feel more relaxed. ​

14 WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS WHEN TRAVELING OVER THE HOLIDAYS​

1. Leave extra early during the Holidays 
If you’re traveling, making sure you are not rushed to get through security will make your airport experience much smoother, while allowing yourself some extra time for traffic or weather related delays if driving will help you keep your cool if you end up parked on the highway for a few hours. You’ll be thankful for giving yourself enough time to account for unexpected delays should any unplanned time crunch come up. 
 
2. Plan ahead 
Buying presents, packing and booking accommodations and reservations should be done early in order to avoid the extra stress. Things also get taken up very quickly around the holidays, so you’ll be happy to know that you’ve already reserved whatever you may need.  
 
3. Make a holiday packing list ahead of time 
Make sure you’re not forgetting anything for your trip by preparing a detailed packing list one to two weeks in advance. This will give you time to mull things over and add items you might have otherwise forgotten.

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4. Load your playlist with relaxing music 
Having some mellow music (or whatever other genre you enjoy) on your playlist will help relax you in case you start getting anxious. Don’t forget some great holiday tunes, to infuse your travel with some holiday spirit if needed! 
 
5. Take time for yourself and treat yourself 
The holidays don’t normally leave much time for ourselves, but if you’re feeling your anxiety and stress levels creeping up, find time to relax. Whether it’s a massage, a hot bath, yoga class or even just a beer while you’re waiting at the airport, take the time you need to make sure you are enjoying this merry time of year. 
 
6. Don’t drink too much 
Alcohol is a depressant, which increases anxiety, stress and lowers your mood. Avoid over indulging when it comes to alcohol, especially if you’re feeling low. Instead, try finding alternative (bonus if it’s healthier too) stress relieving activities that you can enjoy! ​

7. Practice mindfulness during the holidays 
The amount of apps available for your smartphone is endless, which is why you might as well take advantage of them by trying out some apps which are designed to help you find peace and calmness with varying methods. Download a free mindfulness based app and use it regularly to keep you Zen. 
 
8. Bring earplugs 
If you’re getting overwhelmed with the hustle and shuffle around you, use your earplugs to drown out the noise. This helps re-focus your attention on yourself and your needs in the moment. 
 
9. Distractions 
Some find it helpful to write, draw, read, or knit. Find an activity that relaxes you and use it to unwind. Try a coloring book like this, perfect for travelers!

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10. Be physically active 
Physical activity releases endorphins which make us happier – go for a run, get your yogi on or have a romantic night with your other half. If you’re sitting at the airport, go for a walk or do some stretches to get some release. 
 
11. Be aware of your focus  
Focusing on the things that stress you out will only make it worst, especially if you have no control on the matter or can’t do anything about it in the moment. If your family makes you go nuts, try to find something else positive to focus on – maybe uncle Bob will get drunk again this year and take the attention away from you! 
 
12. Stay healthy and hydrated 
Nobody wants to be sick over the holidays! Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, eating healthy and getting lots of rest!  ​

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13. Socialize 
If you need something to take your mind off that stressful week you just had, chatting up the lady sitting next to you at the airport lounge might just provide to be the right distraction. I always run into the most interesting people while traveling, whether it be at the airport or the restaurant off the highway! 
 
14. Pay it forward 
​Finally, paying it forward is another way to feel good and lower your stress levels. Buy a coffee for your neighbor, or bring a hot meal to the homeless person who sits around the corner from your work every day. You will make their day, and you’ll feel great afterwards! ​

There you go, 14 ways to reduce stress when traveling over the Holidays! Let us know in the comments if you have any other tips that could be helpful for your fellow travelers.  Happy travels and have a great holiday season! 
  
 
J&C 

*This article was originally posted in 2016, and has been updated in November 2017.