The holidays are a magical time, but if we’re being honest, they can also be stressful—especially when travel is involved. Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house across the state or taking the whole family on a winter getaway, there’s something about packing, planning, and coordinating schedules that can leave even the calmest parents feeling frazzled. Add kids into the mix, and suddenly, it feels like you need a logistics degree to make it work!

But here’s the good news: with a little preparation and a few smart strategies, holiday travel doesn’t have to be a nightmare. It can actually be enjoyable (yes, really!) and create priceless memories for your family. We’re breaking down how you can travel smoother, stress-free, and maybe even with a smile this holiday season.

Be Flexible

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” When it comes to holiday travel, this couldn’t be more accurate. Start by mapping out the big things like travel dates, transportation, and accommodations. Holiday travel tends to be peak season, so book flights, train tickets, or hotel rooms early to snag good deals and better options.

That said, try to build some wiggle room into your schedule. Flights get delayed, kids need snack breaks, and traffic happens. By allowing extra time, you can roll with unexpected changes without throwing off the whole trip. For example, if your flight lands at 3 PM, don’t plan a 5 PM dinner reservation at your destination; give yourself a buffer.

Pro Tip: Use travel apps like Google Maps and TripIt to organize your plans and get real-time updates on traffic and delays.

Pack Smart, Pack Light

Packing is often the first hurdle to stress-free travel. It’s easy to overpack when you’re trying to prepare for every possible scenario, but lugging around heavy bags with kids in tow is a recipe for exhaustion. Instead, aim for a “less is more” approach.

Here’s how to do it effectively:

  • Pack Outfits by Day: Plan outfits for each day, including socks and underwear, to avoid overpacking unnecessary extras. Consider layering pieces for mix-and-match options.
  • Have a Carry-On “Survival Kit” for Each Child: Include essentials like snacks, a change of clothes, small toys, a tablet, and headphones. If you’re flying, add gum or lollipops for ear-popping during takeoff and landing.
  • Use Packing Cubes: These make it easier to organize and find items in your suitcase quickly, especially when traveling as a family.

Pro Tip: Instead of bringing bulky items like a portable crib, consider renting baby gear at your destination through services like BabyQuip.

Keep Kids Entertained

Long car rides, airport waits, or flight delays can test anyone’s patience, but it’s especially hard on kids. A bored child can quickly turn into a cranky child, so keeping them entertained is key to smooth travel.

  • Create a Travel Activity Bag: Fill it with age-appropriate items like coloring books, stickers, small puzzles, or a new toy for them to discover.
  • Download Entertainment Ahead of Time: Load tablets or phones with movies, shows, or games they love. Don’t forget to bring headphones!
  • Play Travel Games: Classics like “I Spy,” road trip bingo, or 20 Questions are simple but effective for passing the time in the car or at the airport.

For little ones, don’t underestimate the power of snacks. A mix of healthy options (fruit, granola bars) and fun treats can work wonders when patience starts running thin.

Think Ahead About Food

Speaking of snacks, food planning can save you from cranky kids and pricey airport meals. Always pack travel-friendly snacks like trail mix, pretzels, or fruit pouches. For longer trips, sandwiches or wraps can double as an easy meal.

If you’re flying, keep TSA rules in mind. Foods like peanut butter or yogurt count as liquids and might need to go in checked luggage. If you’re prepping bottles for babies, powder formula is much easier to travel with than premixed.

Pro Tip: Some travel rest stops and airports have family “grab-and-go” meal options, so look for kid-friendly choices when you’re in a pinch.

Expect the Unexpected

One thing about traveling during the holidays? It’s unpredictable. Weather delays, lost luggage, or grumpy toddlers having a meltdown in the middle of an airport are all possibilities. The best way to handle stress is to prepare for it.

  • Pack a travel first-aid kit with medicine for fevers, headaches, or upset stomachs.
  • Bring extra wipes and plastic bags (trust me, you’ll use these for everything—from spills to diaper changes).
  • Have backups of essential items like your kids’ favorite blanket, pacifier, or stuffed animal.

Finally, keep your expectations realistic. A little chaos is part of the adventure, and sometimes rolling with the punches leads to the best stories.

Make It Fun for Everyone

Holiday travel doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Infuse some fun into the process!

  • Start a Countdown: Get kids excited by making a countdown to your departure or arrival date.
  • Share Responsibilities: If your kids are older, involve them by letting them pack their own toys or snacks.
  • Turn Pit Stops into Adventures: On road trips, look for fun attractions along the route. A cute diner, a quirky roadside museum, or a playground break can make the trip more enjoyable.

Pro Tip: Surprise your kids with holiday-themed activities on the go, like decorating minibags of cookies or watching a Christmas movie marathon in the car.

Remember, the holidays are about togetherness, not perfection. Even if things don’t go exactly as planned, maintaining a positive attitude can turn potential stress into special memories. Laugh off the little mishaps (like forgetting Aunt Susan’s pumpkin pie recipe) and focus on the moments that matter.

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, consider building in time to unwind before jumping into holiday festivities. A family walk, souvenir hunting, a cozy movie night, or even a quick nap can help everyone feel refreshed and ready.