Whether you’re going across the country next week to visit family and friends, or abroad for a holiday vacation, traveling for any extended period of time can be taxing. I’ve found, however, that a few simple things can make your trip a lot less stressful. Here are ten tips for your holiday travel plans.
- Pick good shoes for the airport: Something that looks nice, is comfortable, and easy to put back on when you’re getting through security. My go-tos are a pair of pebble grained chukkas with a Dainite sole. The simple eyelet system makes them much easier to put on than laced-up oxfords.
- Wear a jacket with zippered pockets at the airport: They help keep your wallet and important documents secure. Useful for when you’re taking your jacket on and off throughout your trip, and things can accidentally fall out.
- Pack a few sweaters: Not just because it’s wintertime and you’ll be cold, but because you don’t always have time to iron when you’re traveling, so having a few knitwear options to hide your wrinkled button-up can be useful.
- Don’t pack stuff you can buy: Things such as shampoo, conditioner, and soap can be bought at your destination. Don’t pack stuff that will just weigh you down.
- Plastic containers: Consider HumanGear’s GoToobs for any liquid-y things. They have a large opening so you can easily pour stuff in, and they’re squeezable, so you can get the last drop out.
- Packing cubes: So much better than rummaging through your messy suitcase while trying to find a sock. Check out Eagle Creek, eBags, and TravelWise.
- Travel wallet: Particularly useful for international travel. They keep all your documents, tickets, and ID cards in one spot, so you don’t have to worry about losing something halfway through your trip. Here’s a roundup of some options.
- Travel slippers: Nice ones can make your hotel stay feel a lot more comfy. They’re also good for long plane rides, when your feet tend to swell. La Portegna’s are handsome and easily foldable, so you can pack them in your carry-on.
- Sleep: It’s important to reset your sleep schedule once you get to your destination. I find having an eye mask and a small dose of melatonin helps, but you should be aware of how different sleep aids affect you.
- Bringing holiday presents: Finally, if you’re bringing holiday presents, save the wrapping for when you arrive. Your presentation will look a lot nicer if it hasn’t had to travel 1,000+ miles with you.
