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9 Holiday Travel Safety Tips for Your Next Getaway

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1. Prepare your home for optimum safety while you’re away.

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If you have a security system installed in your home, ensure that it's working properly—including all alarms, motion detectors, cameras, and other monitoring equipment.

Some DIY home security systems offer optional monitoring. If you usually keep tabs on your system in an app, consider adding 24/7 pro monitoring to your security system for the month in which you'll be traveling.

On top of stepping up security with your alarm system, cancel mail and any regular deliveries. Have a friend or neighbor check on your home while you're away, especially if you'll be gone for a long time. If you live in a snowy climate, make arrangements to have snow cleared while you're away.

2. Have your car inspected or serviced before you leave, and keep an emergency kit in it.

Image: Andrea Piacquadio, Pexels

Car trouble is a common issue for travelers during the holidays. You don't want to end up stuck on the side of the road in cold weather instead of tucked in around the table with a piece of Grandma's homemade pie.

Be proactive to avoid hazards like a blown tire. Take your car in for an inspection and any necessary maintenance, particularly on your tires— make sure they're winter-ready and properly inflated for the long drive.

Prepare a car emergency kit with necessities like a safety cone, carjack, flashlight, and jumper cables. Include first aid essentials and extras like a blanket to stay warm if you break down in the cold.

3. Know how to drive safely on icy roads.

Image: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi, Pexels

Study up to ensure you know how to safely navigate icy, wet, or slushy roads. Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:

Avoid driving until roads have been plowed and sanded.
Give yourself extra time to get to your destination so you don't rush in suboptimal conditions.
Decrease your speed as needed.
Leave yourself plenty of room behind other vehicles so you can stop safely on slick roads.

4. Plan the drive ahead of time, and know alternate routes.

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Proper planning ensures that you're prepared for whatever might happen during your trip. If you’re driving down a highway and hit construction, a road closure, or severe traffic, it can feel impossible to figure out an alternate route on the fly.

When you plot your course, note alternate routes in advance. Tools like a vehicle navigation system or an app like Waze can alert you to potential snags and reroute you safely. These can be a huge help when it comes to staying on track, avoiding road closures, or finding your way back to the main road if you get lost.

Also, if you want to avoid traffic, time your travel to put you on busy roads before or after peak traffic times.

5. Make frequent rest stops.

Winter driving challenges can tire you out much more than driving in the summer. Make frequent stops to rest or just stretch your legs. It's important to keep your energy level high enough to stay alert on the road. Stopping for even a few minutes every couple hours can do wonders for keeping your energy high.

6. Carry a cell phone and charger.

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You never know when or where car troubles may rear their ugly head. A mobile phone lets you call for help, get a tow, or arrange alternative transportation if you run into trouble.

But it won't do you any good if the battery dies. Make sure you grab your phone charger before you leave the house. A wall charger is good when you’re making a stop, but a car charger is better when you're on the road.

If you have a smartphone, you can also download apps to help you in your time of need. If your car insurer has an app, download it before your trip for easy access to roadside assistance. It's also a good idea to download or take a picture of your insurance card.

7. Stay hydrated.

Image: Yaroslav Shuraev, Pexels

Dehydration may not be on the top of your list of holiday travel safety hazards, but not having enough water during a long drive could mean fatigue or decreased alertness—and that's dangerous on the road. Keep a few bottles of water handy, and sip often to keep yourself hydrated throughout the trip.

8. Wash your hands frequently with soap or antibacterial hand sanitizer.

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Proper hand washing isn't just for pandemic times. The holidays are also smack dab in the middle of flu season. Keeping your hands sanitized is especially important if you're flying or riding a train or bus. Everything you touch has been touched by someone else, including armrests and door handles.

Clean your hands frequently with either soap and water or antibacterial gel or wipes—and for the love of Aunt Betty's homemade stuffing, keep those hands away from your face!

9. Give someone close to you a copy of your trip itinerary and photocopies of important documents.

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Before you leave, give a copy of your itinerary and all necessary contact information to a relative or friend. This way it will be easy to reach you in case of an emergency, whether you're on your way out or heading back home.

Also, leave photocopies of your passports, credit cards, and any other types of identification with this person in case something happens to the originals and you need a photocopy. It's also smart to keep a separate set of photocopies in your luggage.

The holidays don’t have to be a dangerous time to travel. Use these holiday travel safety tips to be proactive about travel safety. That way you'll spend time focused on the fun, not stressed about something going wrong.

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Holiday Travel Tips

Holiday travel often includes visiting loved ones or taking a vacation. Whether you’re seeking a winter wonderland or escaping subzero temperatures, follow these travel tips for a healthy and safe holiday travel season.

Before Travel Tips

Check CDC’s destination pages for travel health information . Check CDC’s webpage for your destination to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your routine vaccines . Routine vaccinations protect you from infectious diseases such as measles that can spread quickly in groups of unvaccinated people. Many diseases prevented by routine vaccination are not common in the United States but are still common in other countries.

Get up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and get a seasonal flu vaccine. In the United States, CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine before the end of October

Prepare a travel health kit with items you may need, especially those items that may be difficult to find at your destination. Include your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Depending on your destination you may also want to pack a mask , insect repellent , sunscreen (SPF15 or higher), aloe, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, water disinfection tablets, and your health insurance card.

During Your Trip

Choose safe transportation. Always wear a seat belt, and children should ride in car seats. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among healthy travelers. Be alert when crossing the street, especially in countries where people drive on the left side of the road. Find out other steps you can take to stay safe on the roads.

Protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when traveling. Protecting yourself from the sun isn’t just for tropical beaches—you can get a sunburn even if it’s cloudy or cold. You are at the highest risk for UV exposure when you are traveling during summer months, near the equator, at high altitudes, or between 10 am to 4 pm.

When traveling in cold weather or climates, wear warm clothing in several loose layers.

Consideration for Warm Weather Travel

If you are traveling in hot weather or in a hot climate, wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Your chances of getting heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or other heat-related illness during travel depend on your destination, activities, level of hydration, and age. Travelers who relax on a beach or by a pool are unlikely to get heat-related illness. Learn how to prevent heat-related illness .

Avoid bug bites. Use insect repellent and take other steps to avoid bug bites. Bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies, can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme. These bugs are typically more active during warm weather.

After Travel

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about your travel.

If you need medical care abroad, see Getting Health Care During Travel .

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Holiday Safety Tips: The 12 Days of Safety

Reading Time: 4 minutes The holidays are a joyful time to spend with family and friends, but a careless mistake could put a real damper on your festivities. Here are 12 safety tips to keep in mind this holiday season.

December 14, 2020 by Jessica Smith

Keep these safety tips handy this season by downloading our infographic here. Happy Holidays from all of us at MSA Safety!

Did you know that local fire departments respond to more than 50,000 fires involving heating equipment (2) and more than 700 caused by decorations each year? (3) Be sure to unplug all of your lights, decorations, and portable space heaters when not in the same room.

On the first day of safety, we remind you to extinguish any lit candles when you leave the room, your house, or go to sleep. According to an NFPA study, candles start more than half of all home decoration structure fires, and most of those fires occur in December. (1)

On the third day of safety, remember to never toss wrapping paper into the fireplace. Doing so could result in a flash fire because wrapping paper can ignite suddenly and burn intensely. (4)

On the fourth day of safety, we remind you to only use lights tested for safety by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Lights for both indoor and outdoor usage must meet different standards that testing laboratories can verify. Before using, be sure to check each set of lights – whether new or old – for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out damaged sets and do not use electric lights on a metallic tree. Check outdoor lights for labels showing the lights have been certified for outdoor use, and only plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected receptacle or a portable GFCI. (5)

Overloading circuits, extension cords, or electrical sockets could cause a fire. Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. (6)

Most people don’t realize that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and that, as reported by the NFPA, unattended cooking equipment is a factor in one-third of reported home cooking fires and half of the associated deaths. (7) Be especially careful when you’re using the stove or cooktop and while frying foods. Always stay in the kitchen—even if you’re baking or roasting—and set a timer to remind yourself to check on cooking food.

On the seventh day of safety, we remind you to keep festive holiday plants including poinsettias, mistletoe and holly out of pets’ reach. Ingesting any of these may cause a range of symptoms, while usually mild, ranging from stomach upset to low blood pressure. (8)

On the eighth day of safety, we remind you that smoke detectors should be tested regularly and the batteries replaced at least once or twice a year. Mark your calendar to check your alarm during the holidays. A working smoke alarm cuts your risk of home fire death in half. (9)

This year, planning a virtual holiday celebration or celebrating only with members of your own household poses the lowest risk of spreading COVID-19. If you do plan an in-person celebration, remember to wear a mask, maintain a distance of 6 feet, and wash hands frequently. (10) If you do plan a small gathering, there are other safety concerns to keep in mind – including that every year hundreds of people die in drunk driving accidents during the holiday season. (11) If you plan to drink alcohol, make sure you have a designated driver to get you and your loved ones home safe and sound. Or, consider using rideshare app.

On average, more than 200 house fires are caused by Christmas trees each year. (12) To prevent this from happening to you, we remind you on the tenth day of safety to exercise caution when placing, decorating, and maintaining either kind of tree. Position your tree at least three feet away from a heat source and remember to keep natural trees hydrated. (13)

Nothing is cozier than relaxing by the fire, but it’s especially important to have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. Also, keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from the fireplace, and maintain a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters. (13)

Social media is a great way to share what you and your family are doing for the holidays. However, if you are leaving your home for an extended period of time, we remind you on the twelfth day of safety not to put your plans or pictures on social media until after you return. You could be unintentionally inviting thieves to break into your house while you’re away. Also, keep in mind any federal and local guidelines for COVID-19 when making holiday travel arrangements this year. (14)

From your entire MSA family, we wish you a wonderful, warm, and safe holiday!

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10 Holiday Travel Safety Tips

by Michelle Pratt | Nov 12, 2023 | Travel | 0 comments

The holidays are just around the corner, and we’ll all be doing a lot more traveling. In fact, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics estimates that long-distance trips increase by 24% – 54% during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is a wonderful thing in a lot of ways. People are taking breaks, spending time with family, and practicing gratitude. However, with more people on the road and worsening winter weather, the streets and highways become much more dangerous.

During Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year, traffic injuries and fatalities skyrocket due to distractions , drunk driving, poor weather conditions, and more holiday chaos. If your family is going on a road trip this holiday season, you’ll need safe driving techniques to get everyone safely to their destination. So, today, we’re dedicating this post to holiday travel safety.

Here are our top holiday travel safety tips:

Share your travel plans with loved ones.

Before you leave for your family get-together, let your loved ones know your travel plans. Let them know when you’re leaving, the route you’re taking, and when you plan to arrive. That way, they can check in on you regularly and know when to get help if you’re absent. The last thing you want to do is to break down or spin off the road without service and have no way of contacting help!

Avoid sharing your travel plans on social media.

Though we think it’s great to share your travels with loved ones, don’t post your travel plans on social media. Criminals look for opportunities to break into homes when people are away for the holidays. Advertising you’re away is like an open invitation to those looking to take advantage of you being out of the house for a long period of time. To ensure you arrive home safely with all your belongings in your house, share your holiday adventures after the trip.

Get a full inspection of your vehicle.

Before hitting the road on a long trip, it’s always smart to get a full inspection on your vehicle. This is one of our top holiday safety tips! Many mechanic shops do inspections for free (with the hope you’ll use them for any repairs you may need), so shop around and schedule a time to get your car looked at.

Even though this can be time-consuming and potentially expensive, it’s well worth it! Remember, you don’t want to find out you have an oil leak or a bad battery on the side of the road. Find out beforehand, so you can get everything fixed up. This will give you peace of mind while heading to your holiday party!

Pack an emergency kit.

We always recommend having an emergency kit in your car, but you should definitely bulk up that kit when you go on a road trip. Here’s a full list of family road trip essentials , but keep in mind the specific needs of your trip. You’ll need a first aid kit , cold weather essentials, basic car repair tools , and maybe potty gear . Make a full list, and check it twice! A few key items would be hand sanitizer , something to charge your cell phones, winter gear , band-aids , tire inflator, de-icer, blankets, and plenty more you can find in our winter road trip essentials list .

Leave early and prepare for setbacks.

Don’t rush. Feeling behind and racing to your destination will only increase your risk of danger. Leave early and expect setbacks of every kind. Whether it’s uncooperative kids or a road closure, you need to have plan Bs for everything. Choose alternate routes, pack extra entertainment tools, choose frequent stops, and relax. You’ll get there when you get there.

Keep a close eye on the weather.

Weather can change quickly. Review the forecast multiple times during the week and even the day of your trip. If it’s even a little questionable, stay home. Don’t risk it! Icy roads, poor visibility, and frigid weather can all be huge safety concerns when driving—especially with children.

Stop every two hours.

Babies and kids are simply not meant to sit in car seats for long periods of time. With infants, it can be a safety concern to have them in that posture for more than two hours (yes, even if they’re sleeping in the car seat ). Plan on stopping every couple of hours to let everyone stretch, use the bathroom, and get comfortable again. Here’s more on how to plan road trip stops .

Double-check everyone’s car seats.

If you haven’t checked things like car seat fit and recline in a while, get that manual out and see if everyone is sitting where and how they should be. After you determine whether or not your car seat needs adjustment, give it a good (and safe) cleaning as well. (Here’s how to clean your car seat.) We also recommend you take a look at these common car seat mistakes and ensure you’re not a victim of any of them. A properly utilized car seat is essential to a safe road trip.

Rethink your in-vehicle entertainment.

Part of planning a road trip with kids is figuring out ways of entertaining various age groups for hours at a time. However, when you choose toys, games, and entertainment systems, ensure they’re not projectile risks. In a car crash , small, heavy objects in the car become like missiles ping-ponging around your vehicle. Avoid anything hard-sides or sharp and keep all your bags strapped down. For safe ways to entertain your kids in the car, check out these posts:

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How to Keep Toddlers Entertained in the Car
Free Car Games for Kids
Car Activities for Kids
Are Car Snacks for Toddlers Safe?

Practice safe driving skills.

It’s probably been a while since you’ve had driver’s education. However, safe driving skills are just as important as ever. To stay safe this holiday, refresh on all of your safe driving techniques. Avoid distractions , practice defensive driving , don’t drive drowsy , and say no to drunk driving. This will allow you to stay alert identify safety hazards and avoid creating any hazards yourself. Additionally, if driving in the winter, take a look at our winter road trip safety tips and recall how to drive in icy conditions.

Have a safe holiday with these travel safety tips!

Driving during the holidays comes with a lot of risk. It’s important to take plenty of precautions to keep your family safe and get them to their destination. These tips will help you avoid major problems and will give you peace of mind on your trip! You can read our road trip tips here , or, if you’re flying this year, read our airplane travel advice !

If you liked this post, remember we post more car seat and vehicle safety information daily on the blog and on Instagram . Here at Safe in the Seat, we’re all about equipping parents with trusted and accessible car seats and vehicle facts that keep everyone safe in their seats.

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TSA's Top Travel Tips

TSA partnered with Stars and Stripes News for special military guide

The special guide for service members and their families includes travel tips, such as how to prepare, pack and declare a firearm, checkpoint dos and don’ts, and an inside look at some of TSA’s programs and employees, with a special military emphasis.

Kids rule the airport!

Traveling with children. Those words can strike fear in the hearts of even seasoned travelers. How does one prepare for the ‘excitement’ of bringing young travelers to the airport? We have the answer to three of the most common issues.

Strollers, car seats, breastmilk, oh my!

It can be stressful traveling with baby gear any time of year. Check out this video for tips on navigating through the security screening process with these items. And don’t forget, if you need assistance – just ask – we’re happy to help!

Refresh your memory on the liquid rules

We all know by now that a turkey sandwich is not a liquid, but it can still be confusing when you’re figuring out how to pack your liquids. Watch this video and it will all be crystal clear.

TSA PreCheck® = game changer

Who doesn’t want to get through security faster? TSA PreCheck® allows you to do just that. It’s quick and easy security screening for travelers we know more about – and have earned the esteemed title of “Trusted Traveler.” Applying is easy and once you’re a member- you’ll never want to go back.

How not to be “That Guy” at the airport checkpoint

If you’re like most travelers, you likely don’t like to hear the sound of tapping feet and heavy sighs as your fellow travelers wait for you to prepare your items for security. Want to get through security as fast as possible, while still being safe? Check out these tips for domestic travel from your friends at TSA.

Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered

One of the more popular questions we get from travelers is: “Can I travel with my medication?” The answer is yes, with some qualifiers. Here are a few tips that you might find helpful.

How to know you’ve forgotten something at the checkpoint

Ever gotten on a plane and felt like you were missing something? Here’s a list of the most common items left behind at the security checkpoint. Take note, so it doesn’t happen to you!

Taking your human on a plane: what every pet needs to know

Hey, down here! Are we going to the airport again? No big deal… we’re in this together, and that means we both have to go through security screening.

Get Ready for Game Day

Ah, fall! A time for falling leaves, cooling temperatures, and pumpkin spice flavored everything. But for sports fans, fall means the return of football. Players at all levels, from pee wee to the pros, will be taking the field once again. And if you’re traveling to see the Tide roll or the Eagles soar, we have some tips to help you avoid a penalty flag during your airport screening experience.

Travel Tips that Your Mama Will Love

Everyone knows that there’s no sweeter gift for mom than a visit from you! But if you must bring along a gift, we have a few dos and don’ts to make sure your screening experience is a smooth one.

Fashion dos and don’ts while going through the checkpoint!

Avoid a fashion faux pas by forgetting to do this on your next airport visit.

Keep the Change

Pennies, nickels and dimes don’t seem like much… just a jiggling in your pockets, right? Every day, thousands of people leave their loose change at TSA security checkpoints across America. You may think that a few pennies don’t add up to very much. Just wait until you find out how much passengers leave in those checkpoint bins!

You’ll kick yourself if you forget these travel tips!

Millions of people from all over the world are tuning in to this year’s World Cup. Summer travel season is in full swing so be sure to be ahead of the game when traveling. Shoot and score with these helpful tips that will help you dribble through security with ease.

Going GREEN while traveling through airport security!

Earth Day is every day for TSA. You can do your part to help our planet with these green-friendly travel tips.

Feel like a Superhero with these ASTONISHING travel tips!

Dust off your comic books and cosplay outfits and make room on your shelves for even more cool collectibles! The Granddaddy of annual comic conventions is HERE! Here are 4 helpful tips for all the fanboys and fangirls out there!

5 stressors every pregnant woman has at the airport

Traveling at any time can be stressful, but it can be even more challenging when you’re pregnant.

Too cool for school

The time has come for students to head back to class. If you’ll be flying off to school, we have some tips to make your back-to-school travels as stress-free as possible. After all, nothing should cause you stress other than your first exams and textbook costs!

Two Carry-on Bags in Paradise: A Love Story

If loving a safe flight is wrong, then we don’t want to be right! Valentine’s Day is almost here and many of us will be traveling with gifts for the one we love. Check out some of the most common items screened at security checkpoints nationwide during this romantic time of year.

When flying on a broom just won’t do

Hello all you ghouls and ghosts! It’s almost that bewitching time which means you’re probably itching to hop onto your brooms and fly to a Halloween adventure from your local airports. Here are the tips to make sure your trick-or-treating in the airports is just as sweet as your bucket of candy (without all of the cavities).

Summer Blockbuster -- Automated Screening Lanes coming to an airport near you

Automated Screening Lanes are a state-of-the-art checkpoint technology that enhances security efficiency while decreasing the amount of time travelers spend during the security screening process. These lanes are currently in airports in New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Dallas, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Houston, Newark, Seattle and Atlanta.

Turkey trot on your way through the airport

Thanksgiving is a time for joy, a time for family, and of course a time for glorious, sumptuous, food! Traveling with these mouth-watering dishes, can sometimes be tricky, so find out what you can pack and what you should leave behind at home.

The Spirit of the Season

Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa all begin in December. No matter the religious holiday, TSA has tips for items that you may be traveling with in celebration of the season.

Fly Like Rudolph for the Holiday Season

Deck the moving walkways with your jolly selves as you venture off to your cozy destinations this holiday season! Since traveling with festive fare can sometimes be tricky, check out our tips below to make sure you and your fellow elves make it through the security checkpoint in a mistletoe minute.

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21 Essential Holiday Travel Tips: How To Survive Travel Chaos This Season

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21 Essential Holiday Travel Tips: How To Survive Travel Chaos This Season

1. Book Plane Tickets Early

2. buy flexible tickets, 3. pad your travel dates, 4. travel on a holiday, 5. book direct, 6. get travel insurance (or book with a credit card that has travel protections), 7. fly nonstop, 8. pack extras in case of delays, 9. arrive at the airport early, 10. get a credit card that offers lounge access, 11. review your points stash, elite status, and alternatives pre-travel, 12. have a plan b, 13. don’t check a bag, 14. if you do check a bag, use a tracker and credit card with baggage insurance, 15. know the rules about packing gifts (and popular holiday items), 16. get tsa precheck and global entry, 17. use black friday shopping portal deals to pick up travel gear, 18. download key travel apps, 19. know your rights, 20. fly early in the day, 21. be kind, holiday travel safety tips, holiday travel checklist, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

‘Tis the season. The pumpkin spice lattes, turkey, and Christmas carols … the holidays can bring plenty of holiday cheer but also impending dread. This may ring especially true when you’re traveling, with the potential to miss important celebrations at Grandma’s or a coveted Caribbean vacation. We don’t have tips for surviving holiday gatherings, but we can help get you there. We’re bringing you everything we’ve got to help you manage holiday travel and have a stress-free holiday travel season this year.

21 Expert Tips for Surviving the Holiday Travel Season

From travel insurance to Airtags, here’s everything you need to know and do for a successful holiday travel season.

If you haven’t booked your plane tickets yet, now is the time. While there are many media reports about the best days of the week to book a flight, Upgraded Points research indicates that there really isn’t a specific time to book that guarantees a good deal.

However, there are peak times when it comes to travel dates, so if you can head somewhere earlier and work remotely before the high travel dates start, do it. Set price alerts ASAP to notify you about fare pricing and book as soon as you can; you can also plan to use points and miles for award tickets .

The main thing to know is that it’s best to book tickets in advance for peak dates like the holidays. According to Expedia flight data, the sweet spot for booking holiday airfare is 1 to 2 months out this year. If you haven’t gotten plane or train tickets yet, do it. And if you notice the price goes down? Many airlines (and Google Flights ) allow you to change your ticket, assuming it’s not basic economy, and get the difference back in cash or miles.

This brings us to what type of ticket you should purchase. It’s best to book a changeable or cancelable ticket and avoid basic economy tickets. If (or when) things go awry, it’s essential to have tickets that offer a full refund or at least an e-credit for rebooking.

If you book last minute, some airlines offer lower last-minute pricing than others, such as Spirit, Southwest, and United. Check out this post to find the complete list of airlines best for booking last-minute tickets .

If you absolutely can’t miss Christmas morning with your cousins or can’t fathom skipping the bar scene with your siblings on Blackout Wednesday, give yourself some extra time by padding your travel dates .

Weather, overbooking, crowded airspace, and so much more can cause delays and cancellations around the holidays. Hence, booking travel a few days before you actually need to be there can be a lifesaver when things don’t go as planned. It can save you a lot of headaches and stress knowing that even if you encounter delays, you’ll still make it where you need to be on time.

And you may save money by traveling on off-peak travel dates, too. Data from Expedia this year shows that departing on Monday, November 20 offers a 12% savings over departing the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Departing on Tuesday, December 19 is 25% cheaper than departing Friday, December 22. Leaving on Saturday, December 30 (or on New Year’s Eve) is 45% cheaper than departing on December 26.

Man waiting for flight at airport next to Christmas tree

If you want cheap flights for Thanksgiving or Christmas, flying on the actual holiday is often much cheaper . Of course, you may not want to miss these special days, but if you’re on a budget, you could consider the first flight of the day. Often, the airport is fairly quiet on these days, at least compared to the days leading up to the holiday. You can’t always plan for inclement weather, but it is an option to save money.

This often works well if you’re planning to go on vacation. I usually always head to a sunny destination on Christmas Day, having already spent Christmas Eve with my extended family living nearby and opening presents with the kids on Christmas morning. Heading to Europe for the Thanksgiving holiday is also an easy way to avoid travel chaos. European air carriers don’t consider Thanksgiving a peak time, so traveling on an airline such as Iberia , Lufthansa , or KLM may mean you’ll get off-peak award rates when booking with points and miles.

Our guide to airline peak and off-peak travel dates can help you figure out where to fly on various airlines on the cheap.

Booking travel directly, especially airfare (but also hotels), can be beneficial if issues arise. It’s much easier to claim directly with an airline for a refund or credit versus going through an OTA and the airline.

There is one circumstance that may differ — that’s booking travel through a more traditional travel agent. If an actual person (and we don’t mean Expedia ) is handling your travel, they may also have extended resources to solve any possible travel situations quicker and easier, with less work and strain on your end.

Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in situations like missing a cruise because your flight was delayed, getting ill abroad, or if your baggage is lost.

However, you may not need to purchase additional insurance if you have (or get) a credit card that offers protection. Although many different cards offer various types of coverage, we think the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card offers the best overall value for travel insurance, especially considering the annual fee is just $95 . The card includes protections like an auto rental collision damage waiver , trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, travel accident insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, roadside dispatch, travel and emergency assistance services, and baggage delay insurance.

Travel insurance is always a good idea but can be especially helpful during peak times. And getting it via a credit card is the easiest way to do so. Read more on travel insurance with our lists of best credit cards for certain types of insurance: best credit cards for travel insurance , best credit cards for rental car insurance , best credit cards for trip delay insurance , and best credit cards for trip cancellation and interruption .

Every time you have a layover during peak travel season, it increases the risk of delays and cancellations. Flying nonstop means that you only have to deal with the possible issues that may arise with just 1 flight, not 2 or 3 flights.

If you absolutely have to have a layover, think carefully about where to have it . For example, if you’re flying from Las Vegas to Miami and can’t find or afford a nonstop flight, it may be better to choose a layover in Dallas vs. Denver in hopes of avoiding snow-related delays. Of course, delays can and do happen anywhere, but avoiding the worst of the winter weather is always a plus during peak winter dates .

If your holiday travel anxiety is already full-blown just from the thought of delays or cancellations, you can at least be prepared. I’ll never forget my first trip to the U.S. from Europe with my 4-month-old son. A friend told me to bring 1 diaper per half hour I would be at the airport and onboard. I thought this was slightly excessive, but when our flight was delayed 4 hours in Madrid, then we missed our connecting flight to Tucson and had to stay overnight in Dallas, I had enough diapers (with some to spare).

Preparation isn’t limited to families with kids, though you can save a lot of drama if you bring enough snacks. Make sure to have plenty of reading material, food, a tablet, phone, or computer with plenty of downloaded content, a travel pillow and blanket, an eyemask — whatever you and your travel companions need to stay comfortable and entertained during the flight and any delays that come along with it.

Avoid travel delays by getting to the airport early enough to make your flight. You may have to wait in long lines or get stuck in airport crowds, and missing your flight because you ran late could really screw up your holiday plans.

Although the busy holiday travel season may disrupt your plans, getting to the airport with time to spare generally varies by airport.

Here’s Exactly How Early You Should Get To Your Preferred Airport

This study by Upgraded Points details exactly how much time you should give yourself at airports around the U.S. Findings range from getting to Chicago (ORD) 3 hours and 4 minutes before your flight to just an hour at Columbus (CMH).

That said, you’ll want to arrive even earlier around the holidays, as lines can be longer and staffing shortages are frequent on the busiest travel days around Christmas and Thanksgiving. Alex Miller, Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points and author of the aforementioned study, suggests amending airport arrival times during those peak holiday periods.

“During Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other busy holiday periods, add an extra 60 to 90 minutes on top of normal minimum arrival times. For major airports prone to delays like ORD, JFK, ATL, and LAX, consider allowing 3+ hours for domestic and 4+ hours for international flights over the holidays.” Alex Miller, Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points

Another tip Miller suggests is “checking the airport website for current estimated wait times to get a sense of what to expect and plan accordingly.”

And don’t forget about the time it may take to park. “Expect parking lots and shuttles to be more crowded as well, requiring more time to park and transit to terminals,” he adds. Booking and paying for airport parking in advance may help speed up parking delays.

If getting to the airport 4 hours in advance seems unappealing, we get it. Resurgences of COVID-19, cranky staff members and TSA agents, angry delayed passengers, long lines, and general holiday airport hassle mean that airports full of hordes of travelers can be fairly unpleasant destinations. But remember — once you make it through security, you can relax and recover in the lounge — which brings us to our next point.

American Express Centurion Lounge Sydney views

Holiday travel often means long lines, pushy fellow travelers, and a generally stressed-out, cranky vibe that permeates airports when passengers are frustrated and staff are overworked. Leave that all behind by entering a lounge, a more exclusive area where you can escape the congested gates, sad airport shops, and overpriced restaurants and bars.

Airport lounges have their fair share of issues as well — many have tired infrastructure, stale food, fill up quickly, or aren’t quite as comfortable as you would have hoped. But almost anything beats sitting on the cold floor at your gate trying to charge your phone as harried travelers climb over you. And when massive delays or flight cancellations hit, lounge access feels like a gold mine — free food and drinks, plus a comfortable place to work, nap, charge up your devices, or relax.

The Best Credit Cards To Get for Airport Lounge Access

Many credit cards offer Priority Pass memberships with access to 1,400+ lounges, and some also include access to Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club , Capital One Lounge , or Centurion Lounge . Although various cards offer these memberships, some are better than others or have lower annual fees.

If you’re looking for a card with flexible points and affordable annual fees that offers lounge access, your best bet is the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card . This card offers Priority Pass Select membership and access to the snazzy new Capital One Lounges .

Don’t pay for lounge access when you can get it included with a credit card. Check out all of our favorite credit cards that come with airport lounge access benefits .

It’s true that if the airline cancels your flight, they have to rebook you or give you a refund. But a refund on your $200 flight that you booked 8 months prior from Charlotte to New York doesn’t mean much if you absolutely have to get there today, ticket prices are sky high, and all the flights are overbooked.

If you’ve familiarized yourself with your current points and miles holdings and elite status benefits before traveling, you can easily see what possible Plan Bs (and Plan Cs and Ds) can be. For example, if you hold American Airlines elite status, you may find it easier to get customer service on the phone for rebooking. Or, when cash prices are wildly overpriced, that stash of flexible points, like Chase Ultimate Rewards points, may come in handy, as you can transfer them to several different airlines.

Knowing if you hold certain, more obscure elite status levels can also be helpful. For example, if flights are sold out, you may need to rent a car to reach your destination. Having a status like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle can be helpful in peak times when rental cars are expensive or nearly sold out.

We’re not saying you should write a detailed white paper on what you can do if your flight is delayed or canceled, but it’s always good to have a Plan B in mind. Consider what you might do during winter storms, delays, cancellations, and road closures . Having an alternative when things don’t go as planned will give you a leg up.

According to BBC , 26 million pieces of luggage were lost, damaged, or delayed in 2022. In December 2022, The Washington Post reported, “A nation’s stuff, squeezed and zippered and then entrusted to the delicate ballet of air travel, has been mislaid and orphaned this week.” While the aforementioned delicate ballet of air travel seems to be evening out slightly following the post-COVID-19 travel chaos, we don’t have high hopes for our luggage this holiday season.

The potential for a ruined holiday is already high enough due to staff shortages and inclement weather events. Minimize the drama caused by losing all the kids’ Christmas gifts or having to shop for emergency undergarments on Christmas Eve by packing items in your carry-on luggage .

If you’re a heavy packer, you’re not alone. Sometimes, it’s impossible to travel without checking a bag, especially if you’re going to a cold climate or spending a longer period of time somewhere. If you absolutely have to check a bag, follow these tips:

Use AirTags or another type of bag tracker to know exactly where your bag is at all times.
Book travel with a credit card that offers lost or delayed baggage coverage.
Pack gifts and other key items (especially items of value) in your carry-on.
Check to see that bag tags are accurate and properly attached to your bag.
Ensure your bags are labeled with your name, phone number, and address.
Use a co-branded airline credit card that gives you a checked bag for free .

Many credit cards come with baggage coverage. However, premium cards usually offer more coverage and higher amounts. These are our top picks for the best credit cards offering lost or delayed baggage insurance coverage .

It wouldn’t be a list of Christmas travel tips if we didn’t include exactly what you need to know about packing and traveling with gifts.

Wondering if you can take wrapped presents on a plane? While you can and probably should carry most gifts in your carry-on bag to avoid any issues with lost luggage, TSA can (and will) unwrap anything they deem suspicious . Our best tip is to bring your gifts unwrapped if possible. Wrap them at your destination later if you’re concerned TSA might dismantle your beautiful wrapping job.

TSA has a list of what you can and can’t bring on a plane . The same things you can’t bring on a plane in your carry-on (e.g., liquids over 100 milliliters) can’t be carried on wrapped. So either gift that bottle of perfume in a 100-milliliter-or-less container, or you’ll have to check it, wrapped or not.

Regarding Advent calendars and snowglobes, you can bring both in your carry-on bag . However, snow globes must contain 3.4 ounces of liquid or less (approximately the size of a tennis ball); otherwise, you should check them. TSA also states you can bring things like tins of cookies, chocolates, popcorn, pretzels, solid cheeses, jewelry, gaming consoles, and traditional candles in your carry-on. Still, eggnog and alcohol should go in your checked luggage . If you have more questions, you can tweet @AskTSA (and feel free to tag us, too, @UpgradedPoints , and we’ll weigh in).

One of the most significant slowdowns during a holiday airport is long lines at security and customs if you happen to be traveling internationally. Avoid it by getting TSA PreCheck to speed through airport security (and not have to take those winter boots off) or Global Entry , which can make arrivals back in the U.S. much less stressful, faster, and more streamlined.

We recommend getting Global Entry because you get TSA PreCheck, too, so you might as well get both. The best part? Get them for free with a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit that comes with several different credit cards, including The Platinum Card ® from American Express .

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck make international arrivals and going through security a breeze. Here are the credit cards that offer a statement credit for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck .

Sometimes, that neck pillow , eye mask , or noise-canceling headphone set can make all the difference during a long delay or if you get stuck next to an overly chatty seatmate. Pick up all your travel gear , from luggage scales to Airtags to suitcases and electronics, online during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales to save additional cash. Don’t forget to use shopping portals whenever possible to double-dip on points and miles earnings .

From tracking your delay on FlightAware to viewing your itinerary using TripIt’s straightforward interface to depending on LoungeBuddy to find the right place to hang out when your flight is canceled, travel apps make troubleshooting travel issues just a little bit easier.

Even having X on your phone means you can tweet airlines and possibly avoid long waits sitting on hold when you need to reschedule a canceled flight. Make sure to download apps from your chosen airline, credit card, and hotel, as well as general travel apps like the ones mentioned above that can make a crummy travel situation just a little bit easier.

Flight cancellations at Christmas and Thanksgiving can always happen, especially during the busiest travel days. Knowing your rights is fundamental for ensuring you’re fairly treated and compensated if something goes wrong. The U.S. Department of Transportation explains what you should know , so have this information handy if things don’t go as planned.

For example, U.S. airlines must give passengers food and water no later than 2 hours after a tarmac delay begins for both domestic and international flights. However, “domestic itineraries airlines are not required to compensate passengers whose flights are delayed or canceled,” according to the DOT. Airlines must also give all passengers bumped involuntarily “a written statement describing their rights and explaining how the carrier decides who gets on an oversold flight and who doesn’t.”

Sometimes, airlines take advantage of the fact that many consumers are unaware of their rights as passengers to cut corners . If you know exactly what you’re entitled to, you can make sure you get it.

While there are no guarantees, catching the earliest flight of the day means you might miss some of the travel chaos and avoid delays that form little by little as the day progresses . While travel disruptions are usually less common if you fly earlier, if you do experience issues, there’s a chance you’ll still be able to get to your destination on a flight later that day. If you take the last flight of the day, though, you’re out of luck if your flight is canceled, and you’ll have to fly the following day.

This may seem obvious, but crowds and delays can upset or frustrate even the savviest and most steadfast travelers. Remember, it’s no fault of the flight attendants or gate agents if there’s a winter storm or your flight is canceled. Everyone would probably rather be somewhere else than at an airport during peak holiday travel times, and staff are just as frazzled as you are, if not much more. So be nice — and who knows, you may end up with an upgrade on your rebooked flight.

Stay secure around the holidays with these safe holiday travel tips:

Pack valuables in your carry-on.
Service your car and ensure it’s ready to drive long distances. Make sure to have supplies in case of emergency or winter weather.
Check your destination (if international) for travel advisories on the U.S. Department of State website.
Enroll in the STEP program if traveling abroad.
Carry a portable charger to keep your devices charged.
Share your travel plans with trusted friends and family.
Keep on top of weather alerts.
Make sure you have travel insurance in case you fall ill when traveling abroad .

Check these to-dos off your list before traveling this holiday season:

Check that your passport and ID are up to date and valid.
Note which of your rewards credit cards include lounge access, travel insurance, or baggage insurance. Make sure to book travel with cards that offer the best insurance benefits and the most bonus points for travel purchases.
Get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
Buy travel items on Black Friday or Cyber Monday to save money (including Airtags).
Download useful travel apps.
Book airport parking in advance
Know your points and miles balances and elite status options.
Book plane tickets as far in advance as possible.
Know your rights and have a Plan B in mind.
Make sure gifts (wrapped or unwrapped) don’t violate TSA restrictions.
Try to avoid checking baggage if possible, especially on peak dates.

Looking for the ultimate packing checklist? This printable checklist means you won’t forget a thing when packing your suitcase.

Whoever said the quote, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey,” had clearly never been in an airport the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. But the “journey”” doesn’t have to be all bad — if you organize and prepare just right, you’ll have the tools to withstand whatever happens at the airport, whether that be cutting past those long security lines thanks to TSA PreCheck or knowing exactly what compensation you’re owed if you’re involuntarily bumped from your flight. Use these holiday travel planning tips for a safe and enjoyable travel experience this season to help you weather anything that’s thrown at you, from winter storms to lost luggage.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the busiest travel days of the year.

In past years, the Sunday after Thanksgiving has been the busiest travel day of the year. However, the days before and after Christmas and New Year’s Day, as well as the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, are also popular days to fly. If you’re able to travel on other dates, do so. If not, buckle up for busy airports and possible delays.

Are airports open on Christmas Day?

Most airports are open on Christmas Day, and it can be an excellent day to travel with more affordable fares and fewer crowds. However, it’s possible that some airport shops and restaurants might be closed or have limited hours. Occasionally, certain airports may not open on Christmas Day. For example, the Dublin Airport closes every year on Christmas Day .

Are flights cheap on Christmas Day?

While it’s not an exact science, flights can be more affordable on Christmas Day since most people already want to be at their destination to celebrate the holiday. The best thing to do is search for flights using flexible dates and see which dates and times are most affordable and work with your schedule.

What is the most traveled holiday of the year?

Thanksgiving and Christmas are some of the busiest times to travel, but so are Labor Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July. The end of July is also a popular time to travel.

Is the day after Christmas a busy travel day?

The day after Christmas and the days leading up to Christmas are busy days at airports and on the road. You can save money and avoid crowds by traveling on alternative dates.

Is the day after Thanksgiving a busy travel day?

In most cases, the day after Thanksgiving isn’t as busy as the Sunday after Thanksgiving or the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. However, holiday weekends can be busy times to travel in general, so you may encounter more crowds, longer lines, and delays during these times of the year.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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10 tips for flying during the holidays this season

It's beginning to look like busy airports, festive travelers all around and that familiar holiday travel season.

The most wonderful time of the year can very quickly become the most stressful time of the year at the airport, and many travelers will have little ones along for the journey .

A logjam of holiday flyers can result in crowding, lines and some tense moments, especially if winter weather doesn't cooperate and delays or cancellations become an issue.

But your family doesn't have to succumb to stress at the check-in counter with an overweight bag, deal with banned items in the Transportation Security Administration line or race through the terminal frantically trying to catch a flight.

Instead, you and your loved ones can be the travelers who are relaxing in an airport lounge and expertly avoiding bag fees — with a solid backup plan in the event of an issue with flight operations.

Pack the right credit card

It might be too late to add a new credit card to your wallet to help make your holiday travel easier, but the season isn't over yet. Here are some of our favorite cards with holiday travel perks and related benefits .

You can also check to see if you already have the right credit card in your wallet. Some credit cards protect you from incurring bag fees , while others help you earn elite status (think: a priority line for airline customer service and the hope of a holiday upgrade). You could have a credit card that lets you board early or one that gives you a statement credit for your inflight purchases.

For example, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card gives you and your traveling companions a free checked bag on Delta flights. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card reimburses you for Wi-Fi purchases on Southwest Airlines (up to 365 credits per year) and includes four upgraded boarding positions per year, just in case that perfect Southwest seat is your goal.

There are also credit cards that get you access to airport lounges or cover the cost of a meal at the airport — both of which are much better ways to spend time before or between flights than sitting at the gate.

If you get a last-minute credit card with a Priority Pass membership , you can still use a digital membership card at most eligible lounges.

Should you decide to sign up for The Platinum Card® from American Express at the last minute, you'll likely receive an instant card number; this should also do the trick for getting you into an American Express Centurion Lounge or other partner lounges, including Priority Pass Select, Delta Sky Clubs (on same-day Delta flights)* and Aspire and Escape lounges. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Just remember that Amex tightened its guest access policy this year. Be sure to read up on the rules before heading to the airport so that you're not surprised by any guest fees.

*Effective February 1, 2025: Eligible Platinum Card Members will receive 10 Visits per Eligible Platinum Card per year to the Delta Sky Club or to Grab and Go when traveling on a same-day Delta-operated flight.

Related: How to avoid checked baggage fees on major domestic airlines

Book your airport parking in advance

Airport parking lots — especially the ones that are either the cheapest or the closest to the terminal — fill up on holiday weekends, and your best bet is to book a spot in advance . In fact, if you're planning to travel for Christmas or New Year's, do it now. Not only does that guarantee you a spot, but sometimes it is cheaper, too.

At Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), you can save 33% to 50% by booking your spot online in advance. Even more importantly, that advance reservation can save you when the garage is otherwise sold out .

Related: Expensive airfare and increasing gas prices: Here's how you can save on holiday travel

Get to the airport early

I know this sounds like your parents talking, but nothing induces intense and immediate stress faster than running late for your flight, especially in today's world. So, even if you normally cut things close, don't do it during the holidays when that next flight may be too full to switch onto if you miss your original flight.

Planes are full, and if you miss a flight, the airline might not have many places to put you.

Taking the first flight of the morning is a good idea, too. Early morning flights are the most likely to have been cleaned overnight and to depart on time, so get a jump on the day and book the early bird. If you notice bad weather forecasts for your travel date, getting out in the morning can be even more important.

And while you are there nice and early, remember that you can often mobile order Starbucks for pickup , so that's one less line to worry about.

Related: How to avoid airline change and cancellation fees

Be strategic about checking bags

During the holidays, some travelers swear by the mantra of "stay calm by not carrying on."

While I vastly prefer to carry my bags on 95% of the time, there is some logic to checking everything you can — especially if you have kids to chase after in the airport. If you check your bags, your hands are free and you don't need to worry about early boarding as overhead bin space isn't a problem. You also don't have to stress as much over the security screening process and whether you need to pull out half your items to place them in bins.

Checking bags can slow you down a little, but it can also result in some bonus free miles if the bags are slow to come down the baggage claim. If you really want to push the easy button, you can even skip the baggage claim completely and have your checked bags delivered to your final destination.

We'd also be remiss not to add that checked bags during the holidays are where the right credit card can really pay for itself.

And, of course, remember to toss an AirTag in your checked bag so you can keep a virtual eye on its journey.

If you plan to bring a carry-on, be sure to read the fine print of your ticket. If you're flying basic economy or with a budget airline , your fare may not include a free full-size carry-on. In that case, being strategic means condensing. How many family members can get by with just a backpack? The fewer bags — whether checked on carry-on —you have to pay for, the better.

Consider shipping your stockings

While strategically checking or carrying on a bag will work in most cases, there are circumstances where shipping packages to your final destination can be even easier — and sometimes, cheaper.

If checking your bags would subject you to oversized baggage fees, shipping can be a smart decision. Try the site LugLess to price and purchase shipping for your belongings (or presents), whether you want DIY drop-off or doorstep pickup and delivery. Just remember that recent years brought holiday season shipping delays, so you may want to allow some extra time.

Related: These are the checked bags carried by TPG's staff

Know the TSA rules for flying with holiday items

Can you bring wrapped presents through security? Technically, you can, but it's a bad idea in the event TSA agents need to inspect what's inside.

Traveling with a snow globe? Make sure that the liquid is 3.4 ounces or less and that the item can fit in a quart-size, resealable plastic bag. (So, really, don't carry on that snow globe.)

The holiday season gives us ample reason to study the TSA's 3-1-1 rules for liquids. As hinted above, you're limited to liquids of no more than 3.4 ounces in volume inside a quart-size resealable plastic bag ... and you get one such bag.

You can bring a fruitcake, sufganiyot or cookies through security, too, but you may want to put food in its own tray for inspection.

Related: Here's what Thanksgiving foods you can bring in your carry-on and what has to be checked

Clear security in a flash

On peak travel days, TSA PreCheck isn't always enough to get you through security as fast as you'd like (looking at you, Denver and Newark). If you want the one-two punch of having all available expedited security options, consider getting Clear . You can sometimes even apply for Clear at the airport if you see the regular security line crawling along slower than you like, so you don't have to commit in advance.

The Amex Platinum now comes with up to $189 in Clear statement credits each calendar year, meaning you can receive Clear for free (membership costs $189). If you have the American Express® Green Card , it also comes with a $189 annual statement credit for the program. Also, remember that kids can use Clear for free when traveling with you, and additional adults can be added to your main plan for just $60 per year.

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you don't have Clear, some airports allow you to reserve a time to go through security , which is much better than nothing.

Lounge around

The airport lounges of today aren't just for the elite — they're for the savvy. So, don't find yourself stuck out at the gate if you don't want to be. Instead, get yourself into a lounge on your holiday trip, and enjoy some complimentary food and beverages.

If the whole family is flying for the holidays, you might want to specifically seek lounges that have family rooms, such as select Amex Centurion lounges. Just keep in mind that entrance for adult guests costs $50 each (including the cardholder's spouse). For children ages 2 to 17, expect to pay $30 each (unless you've met Amex's spending requirements to waive the guest fees).

If you're just looking for the best places to lounge, there are several top Priority Pass lounges in the U.S. A card you might already have in your wallet, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Amex Platinum , could help you gain access to them.

Many fancy new lounges have opened this year as well. Chase's Sapphire Lounge opened at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), while Capital One just opened a lounge at Dulles International Airport (IAD) outside Washington, D.C.

Related: 11 credit cards that offer Priority Pass airport lounge access

Bring your own onboard essentials

Whether you're flying solo or with a basketball team's worth of kiddos, there are several essentials you'll want to make sure you have on board with you.

To start, consider bringing your own food, comfort items and entertainment. Some airlines are better than others at providing some (or all) of these amenities, so it's best to be self-reliant — especially if you're traveling in economy — just in case you find yourself without them.

Although airlines have resumed their inflight food and beverage service , you'll want to be 110% prepared since many routes only offer cold snack boxes.

Grab headphones , a neck pillow , snacks and something to keep you occupied, and you'll be all set — even if the airline doesn't have anything to offer you beyond a small seat.

Know where you can actually have fun at the airport

If you have a delay or long layover at an airport, you may be in luck if it is one of the airports that go all-in on winter holiday fun . For example, at Denver International Airport (DEN), there's an ice skating rink that usually opens in mid-November.

Other airports have game lounges, nap lounges and more; you might even be able to access some of these for free with your credit card.

Bottom line

The holidays are an exciting time to go home or get away, but a crowded airport or plane isn't always the most magical part of the experience. We promise you'll survive your holiday travels by making a few strategic choices, packing your wallet appropriately and being prepared.

5 Safety Tips for a Healthy and Happy Holiday

Photo Illustration by Lecia Landis for Verywell Health; Getty Images

Accidents and injuries aren’t ever in anyone’s holiday plans, but thousands of them—many preventable—happen every year.

“Planning ahead and taking precautions go a long way toward staying safe whether you are traveling or staying home,” Robert Emery, DrPH, Vice President of Safety, Health, Environment & Risk Management at UTHealth Houston, told Verywell.

There are safety considerations for the quintessential components of a holiday gathering: food, gifts, and decorations. But there are also travel, illness, and first aid pointers you should have top of mind just in case. Here’s what safety experts and emergency department physicians want you to know.

Choose Toys Wisely

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that in 2022, 11 deaths and over 145,500 emergency room visits were linked to toys made for children 12 years and younger. Most of the deaths were due to choking on small parts, and scooters accounted for the largest share of injuries.

As a result, the CPSC offers some specific advice for toy safety:

Follow age guidance and other safety information on toy packaging and choose toys that match each child’s interests and abilities.
Get safety gear, including helmets, for scooters and other riding toys–and make sure that children use them all the time.
Once the gifts are open, throw away plastic wrappings and other packaging on toys before they become dangerous playthings.
Keep small balls and toys with small parts away from children younger than age 3 and keep deflated balloons away from children younger than age 8.

Choking hazards take many forms, not just small parts. Toys with strings longer than seven inches can be a strangulation hazard, Joseph Perno, MD, Vice President of Medical Affairs at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, told Verywell.

Decorate Carefully

Home fires from decorations and candles peak in December, according to the American Red Cross . While the organization’s safety tips might seem like common sense (keeping candles away from kids and pets), consider these annual reminders to avoid a fire:

Check all holiday light cords for breaks and fraying. Don’t string more than three strands of lights per extension cord. Too much wattage per cord can lead to a fire.
Look for a fire-resistant label if you’re buying an artificial Christmas tree. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
Keep live trees watered, and purchase a tree that’s as fresh as possible. To test if the tree is fresh, bend the needles up and down to make sure minimal needles fall off.
Keep trees of all kinds away from heat sources.

Prep and Store Food Safely

Pay attention to food safety warnings and recalls prior to purchasing food for a party or eating food at events you attend. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently advising people not to eat certain brands of pre-cut cantaloupe because it is contaminated with salmonella bacteria. So far, the outbreak has affected 38 states and caused over 200 illnesses and three deaths.

Signs of Salmonellosis

Call your healthcare provider if you experience signs of severe salmonellosis, the infection causes by the salmonella bacteria, which can include:

Fever higher than 102 degrees
Diarrhea for more than 3 days
Bloody diarrhea
Vomiting and inability to keep liquids down
Infrequent urination
Dry mouth and dry throat
Dizziness upon standing

Proper food storage is important when it comes to preventing illness, too.

“We see lots of people in the emergency room every year with severe stomach upset. It’s often from eating foods that don’t agree with them, but also from food that sat in the car or on the buffet for too long without refrigeration,” Avir Mitra, MD, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, told Verywell.

Mitra advises travelers, guests, and hosts to follow CDC guidelines for keeping food fresh. He suggests preparing a number of small platters and dishes ahead of time and replacing the serving dishes with fresh ones throughout the party. For cold foods like vegetables or cheeses, store cold backup dishes in the refrigerator. For warm perishable dishes, consider keeping hot dishes in the oven set at 200 degrees to 250 degrees.

Food safety extends to watching what you eat, especially if your doctor’s guidance involves limiting certain foods, Mitra added.

“Every year during the holidays, we see people in the emergency room who’ve had too much sodium during festive meals, which can cause a spike in blood pressure or cardiac issues,” he said.

Stock Medications Preventatively

Though it’s difficult to talk about and unpleasant to anticipate, holidays and tense family dynamics can lead to increased use of opioid painkillers and illicit drugs, according to experts at the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. In November, the organization held a reporters’ briefing to express the importance of having a drug called Narcan (naloxone) on hand ahead of the holidays in order to reverse opioid overdose and potentially save a life.

Narcan is a temporary treatment administered as a nasal spray, and 911 should always be called when it is used.

This is the first year that Narcan can be purchased without a prescription thanks to the FDA approval of OTC brands of the drug. You can buy it in every state both in pharmacies and online for about $45.

There’s good reason to consider buying Narcan: deaths from opioids more than doubled from January 2015 to January 2023, according to federal data .

Treat COVID Quickly

Now that COVID-19 is nearly four years old, treatments exist and are readily available to nip it in the bud if you are eligible. Two examples are Paxlovid and Lagevrio, antivirals used to slow the progression of the disease in people with moderate/mild COVID-19 who are at high risk for developing severe COVID-19.

These prescriptions require a prescription. You’ll need to show proof of a positive COVID test and to meet with a provider or pharmacist in order to receive medication.

A program called Home Test to Treat , run through the National Institutes of Health, offers free COVID and flu tests, free telehealth appointments, and free medication sent overnight for people who are underinsured, people on Medicare or Medicaid, and people with healthcare through the Veteran Health Administration.

If you have private insurance, you can’t sign up for the program’s free tests, but you can contact the program after you’ve tested positive. From there, you’ll still be eligible for a free telehealth appointment and free COVID and flu medication if needed.

Consumer Product Safety Commission. Make it a 'home safe home' for the holidays .

By Fran Kritz Kritz is a healthcare reporter with a focus on health policy. She is a former staff writer for Forbes Magazine and U.S. News and World Report.

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Suitcase packed with travel gear in background with blurry Christmas tree in foreground

10 Holiday Travel Tips You Need to Know

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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Planning to visit Grandma’s for Thanksgiving or spend Christmas in Rome? Holiday travel can be notoriously busy, expensive, and stressful, but the news isn’t all bad. There are still deals to be found, provided you shop carefully and plan ahead. Check out these 10 holiday travel tips and find some joy this holiday season.

Avoid Peak Travel Dates

At Thanksgiving, Wednesday is the critical outbound “avoid” day as a rule. Traveling on Thanksgiving Day is often a breeze and more affordable, and if you can fly home any day other than Sunday, you’ll likely pay less.

At Christmas and New Year’s, the peak holiday travel dates change each year depending on which days the holidays fall. You can generally guess which dates will be the most expensive for travel (consider which travel days would allow you to maximize long weekends without taking too many days off work — and that’s probably when everyone will want to go). For more information, see The 12 Best and Worst Days for Holiday Travel This Year .

Shop Around

Whether you’re using booking sites like Expedia or metasearch sites such as Skyscanner , comparison shopping has never been easier than it is right now. During holiday travel season, casting a wide net will help you understand all your options. Be as flexible as possible with dates and airports in order to get the best fares and schedule. Keep in mind that flying into or out of a smaller airport can make a big difference in your holiday travel experience, since smaller airports tend to have smaller crowds and shorter lines.

Find a Great Rate on You Next Stay with SmarterTravel Hotels

Plot Connections Carefully

Woman holding hands with child and wheeling suitcase through airport

When booking flights, check your search results carefully for sufficient time during layovers, and build in some time for flight delays and weather woes. Particularly during the winter months, peak travel times often bring travel delays, and your connections are more likely to be jeopardized. Avoiding tight connections might save you a sprint through the terminal or, worse yet, a missed flight.

Also, it’s best if you can muscle your flight path into position so that connections are in places less likely to experience delays—specifically, airports in warmer climates. Better yet, book a nonstop flight and avoid the issue altogether.

Leave Early

During peak travel times, much of the trouble you’ll face lies on this side of the security check-in, from traffic jams and full parking lots to absent shuttles and long lines. Rather than striving to “arrive at the airport early,” you may want to try to “leave for the airport early” to anticipate all the peripheral delays you may encounter.

Many flights are completely full around the holidays, so if you miss your scheduled flight due to a flat tire or unexpected traffic, it may not be easy to get on another flight in a reasonable amount of time.

Most airlines recommend checking in 90 minutes early for domestic flights and two hours early for international flights. For holiday travel, however, it’s wise to arrive even earlier. Expect to encounter long lines at check-in and security, and plan accordingly. To save yourself time, put gas in your car the night before.

The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad

Pack Wisely

Close up of person checking off items from a packing list over a full suitcase

Has it been a while since you last flew? If so, you’ll want to make sure you’re familiar with the latest TSA rules regarding what’s allowed in carry-on bags. See Airport Security Frequently Asked Questions for a primer. Remember that the TSA’s liquid and gel restrictions apply to items like holiday leftovers (think mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce) and to gifts such as wine or body lotion; prepare to put these in your checked bag.

When packing, keep in mind that most airlines charge travelers a fee for checking any bags on domestic flights (and even some international ones), and that some bargain-basement fares don’t include a carry-on bag either. Check your airline’s baggage rules in advance so you know what to expect.

Plan Ahead for Parking

Don’t assume that you’ll be able to pull right into your airport’s economy lot and find a space the day before Thanksgiving or Christmas. Airport parking lots may be vast, but they do fill up during peak travel times. Consider alternatives to driving yourself such as taking public transportation, booking a shuttle, calling a cab or rideshare, or having someone drop you off.

If those options don’t work, reserve a parking spot in advance through websites such as AirportParkingReservations.com or ParkRideFly .

Take Advantage of Shortcuts

The latest self-service developments in online travel can be tremendous time-savers during peak travel times. Whenever possible, print your boarding passes at home or pull them up on your smartphone. Consider applying for trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , which allow you to skip the normal security lines.

If you buy most of your gifts online, have them shipped directly to your destination. This will cut down on luggage and the risk of them getting lost . (If you do decide to pack your gifts, don’t wrap them; TSA agents will rip them open if they need to screen them for any reason.)

The 11 Best Stocking Stuffers for Travelers

Travel Early in the Day

As a rule, airports are least congested at times when normal human beings would rather be at home or even asleep. Delays are far less likely for morning flights, and if you do encounter an issue with your originally scheduled itinerary, you’ll have options later in the day.

Caveat: Staffing can be spotty for really early flights in addition to the ongoing staffing shortage facin g airlines . So although your flight is highly likely to be ready to leave on time, check-in may take a while, as may other personnel-dependent steps like riding shuttle buses.

Bring Some Creature Comforts

Man sleeping with neck pillow on airplane

As if cramped legroom, narrow seats, and crying babies weren’t enough to guarantee an uncomfortable journey, some airlines are now taking away the free blankets that were the only thing standing between passengers and hypothermia. Stay warm on a chilly holiday flight by packing your own cozy pashmina , fleece , or travel blanket .

For longer flights, consider bringing items such as earplugs , noise-canceling headphones , and an eye mask to help you sleep. And don’t miss SmarterTravel’s list of the best travel podcasts to keep you entertained.

How to Find the Cheapest Flights (According to Google Flights Experts)

Keep Your Cool

Don’t lose your temper, even if things go wrong. Airline employees have considerable power over your well-being. Unfortunately, some enjoy wielding it against you, and few respond well to anger.

Remember that everyone is harried, and have a little extra patience. The crowds, the weather, and the stress of the holiday season guarantee that a good 90 percent of the people you interact with on your journey are just as frazzled as you are.

A Few Bonus Holiday Travel Tips

Check ahead for delays before you leave for the airport. The Federal Aviation Administration has a map showing general delay status at major airports across the U.S. so you can see if trouble might be lurking, even if your scheduled flight is still on time.
Have phone numbers for everything: your hotel, your car rental agency, your airline, friends at your destination.
Give your cell phone a full charge, and download your airline’s app so you’ll get alerts if your flight is delayed or your gate changes.
If you’re leaving pets at home and you haven’t made kennel reservations, do so right away. If Fluffy is coming along, make sure you know your airline’s and accommodation’s pet policies.
While many places have lessened or lifted COVID-19 restrictions, there are still some destinations, public venues, and events that require masks or proof of vaccination. Make sure you’re prepared by keeping a copy of your vaccine card with your travel documents and have a stock of masks handy just in case.

Do I Need to Be Vaccinated to Fly?

Put It All Together

Holiday travel is the time to lay all your travel savvy on the line. For example, if you:

have your boarding pass sent to your phone
leave early enough not to sweat the small stuff
travel light enough not to have to check any bags
proceed directly to and through security
arrive at the gate on time and at ease
and nail your connections …

… you might actually enjoy traveling this season!

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Christine Sarkis and Jessica Labrencis contributed to this story.

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Top 10 tips for holiday travel safety

- As the busiest travel time of the year is approaching, many families are enlisting safety apps, like Greenlight, to keep their kids safe and connected.

- Holiday travel can be safe with the right precautions — like packing first-aid kits and making sure your kids have a debit card for any financial emergency.

- Greenlight’s top 10 travel safety tips can help your family navigate the busy season and prepare for any unexpected encounter.

As the holiday season approaches, so does the demand for toys, turkeys, and (you guessed it) travel . Whether you’re visiting grandma a few miles away or traveling across the country to reunite with all your relatives — you’re bound to encounter the busiest travel time of the year.

So what can you do to prepare? Greenlight has all your travel safety questions covered. Here are our top 10 family safety tips for holiday travel — so you can hit the road safely and focus on what matters most — spending time with your family.

Is holiday travel safe?

Greenlight’s top 10 travel safety tips for the holidays.

If you’re thinking of packing your bags for the holidays — consider Greenlight’s top 10 travel tips for families on the go.

Three siblings wear Santa hats and sunglasses in a car on the way to see family for the holidays

1. Use location sharing to stay connected.

Knowing where your kids are can help bring you peace of mind while you travel. Use a mobile app like Greenlight to enable location sharing for every member of the family.

By having everyone opt-in, you’ll be able to see everyone’s location — and they’ll be able to see yours, too. No more worrying about getting lost in crowded places. With location sharing, your family will always be able to find their way back to you.

2. Be prepared for high traffic and delays.

Some of the best memories come from holiday road trips. Watching them fall asleep in the back seats. Jamming to the latest radio hit together. Making a TikTok during a quick rest area break.

For the good moments — and the tough ones — it’s important to be prepared for it all. That means sitting in long traffic delays or choosing an alternate route. A lot can happen while on the road.

So whether you’re driving for an hour (or 10), precautions like having a spare tire, extra snacks, or a blanket if it’s cold, can give your family the extra peace of mind they deserve.

Greenlight tip : Remember to always drive safely — and avoid being rushed or distracted while on the road. 🚗

3. Help at their fingertips — with SOS alerts and crash detection.

As parents, your child’s safety comes before everything else. And when you’re traveling, it’s important to give them the tools they need to stay safe — with or without you.

SOS alerts screen on a mobile phone with real-time notifications in case of emergency by Greenlight

Enter Greenlight’s SOS alerts for kids and teens. With just one swipe, they can send SOS alerts to 911, family or both if something’s wrong.

And because accidents happen, Greenlight’s crash detection can help kids and teens when they’re on the road. If a crash is detected, 911 dispatch will check on them and send help immediately. Plus, their emergency contacts will be notified of the situation.

So you can keep calm, and they get help as soon as they need it. All over the map.

4. Make a family group chat.

If you haven’t already, create a family group chat for quick communication. Instead of sending multiple texts, now you can just send one.

Lunch vote? Check. Meet-up time? Check. Reminders? Check.

A family group chat is the perfect place to house all the important details for your trip — and beyond.

5. A kid-friendly debit card for their financial needs.

Leave the cash at home. Give kids their own debit card to make purchases on their own. It’s safer — and easier than keeping track of every dollar. And if they lose it, you can simply turn it off — no more lost (or loose) change 💰

Plus, if they need money, you can send them the money they need. Instantly.

Greenlight app on mobile screen with personalized holiday themed debit card against green background

Not sure where to start? Sign up for Greenlight and get debit cards for up to five kids. They can request money from their cell phones when needed — and you can use category limits to make sure they’re spending smart.

Greenlight tip : Parents also get real-time notifications when kids use their debit card. You can monitor purchases and see locations for each transaction from your parent app.

6. Have a backup plan.

Canceled flight? Bad weather? If your travel doesn’t go as planned, make sure you have an alternate game plan for the holidays. Whether it’s staying home or going somewhere local — keep the holiday spirit alive by keeping everyone together.

7. Pack a first-aid kit and emergency medication.

A small emergency kit can go a long way — especially when traveling with kids. Whether it’s a Band-Aid, allergy, or flu medicine, you can stay prepared for any minor medical need.

8. Protect them from infectious diseases during the colder months.

Hello colder months. Hello, flu season. Remember that COVID-19, the seasonal flu, and other infectious diseases are typically going around during the colder months.

Protect your family from getting sick. Follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and monitor their website for alerts. Consider wearing masks, washing your hands frequently, and using hand sanitizer while you’re on the go.

9. Dress for the right weather.

Research before you go. Plan your wardrobe around your destination’s weather forecast. Bring an extra layer or jacket, just in case. If you choose the wrong clothes for the weather, you may have to spend time and money on new clothes during your holiday travel.

Greenlight tip : Assign weather research and packing chores to your kids so they can learn all about planning for the right weather. Depending on their age, you may want to do a final check on that luggage.

10. Keep your belongings safely guarded.

Remember to keep an eye on your belongings. Cash and cards? Check. Bags and luggage? Check. Precious other valuables? Check.

Many cards (including Greenlight’s debit cards) are FDIC-insured up to $250,000. Misplaced your Greenlight debit card? Just turn the card on or off from the app.

Last but not least — enjoy every moment. Because truth is, kids grow up fast. So bring a camera to capture it all, or a mobile phone battery for some extra juice so you don’t miss a beat. The fireworks. The first snowfall. The tree lighting. And (of course) the unwrapping. You’ll be glad you captured it when you look back years later.

Why holiday travel safety is important

You can’t slow down the holiday season. But you can give your family everything they need to stay safe and connected while they travel. They get to explore the world and spend time with family. And you get to watch them do it all safely.

Mom and dad put Christmas tree on top of their car before traveling to see family for the holidays

Interested in Greenlight’s safety offerings? Learn more about Greenlight Infinity — our power-packed plan to keep every member of the family connected and safe.

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5 Holiday Travel Tips for 2024

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While we’re all still processing what's likely to be a chaotic summer in travel , it’s already time to start thinking about the 2024 holiday season.

Like last year, you might not have an all-out, bucket-list, everybody-in-your-family-will-come type of trip. Maybe your new holiday traditions will take you to Christmas markets in Germany (the dollar is strong, making Europe ... a budget destination ?) or watching the ball drop in Times Square .

If you're planning to travel for the holidays, now is a good time to start researching — and booking — flights, rental cars and hotels. Especially if you haven’t traveled much this year, you’ll want to keep in mind these tips for booking holiday travel.

1. Book early before prices go up

Last-minute deals can be found on hotels and rental cars if you're willing to wait to book. That said, the move is risky, as inventory may be unavailable by the time you start your search.

According to data from the travel app Hopper, domestic airfares for flights the week of Christmas are higher than in the last 5 years. The cheapest time to buy these flights is by Oct. 20, but at the very least, travelers need to book before Thanksgiving to avoid the highest prices.

Similarly, flights during the week of Thanksgiving should be booked by the same day (Oct. 20) for cheaper fares. Hopper predicts flight prices will rise $10 daily, on average, from the beginning of November until Thanksgiving.

» Learn more: The latest on how travel expenses have been impacted by inflation

2. Fly on the holiday to save

For the best deals, consider traveling on the holiday. Flights on Christmas Day will mean celebrating the holiday before or after, but, much like the busiest days to fly around Thanksgiving , there's often greater availability and lower costs.

If you aren't willing to travel on the holiday itself, avoid the peak travel days to minimize the likelihood of delays that will impact your trip and time with friends and family. Keep this timing in mind for return flights as well. Hopper recommends flying a few days before and returning the week after, but before New Year’s Eve. This could save you on airfare.

To avoid delays and cancellations, book an early morning flight. It's less likely to be affected by other delayed flights throughout the day. Plus, if your flight gets canceled, there will be more opportunities to get to your final destination the same day.

» Learn more: How to book a holiday flight that (likely) won't get canceled

3. Redeem points for your flight or hotel stay

If you’re looking at prices and thinking of using points instead, some of the same strategies for finding cheap cash rates apply.

In some cases, you’ll be able to save points when you book early or travel on low-demand days because loyalty programs, like Southwest's , use a dynamic award-pricing system. When the cash prices are low, it’ll cost fewer points or miles as well.

The same goes for using credit card points, like Chase Ultimate Rewards® or American Express Membership Rewards , when booking through the issuer’s travel portal.

Unfortunately, if you don’t have enough points to book, it’s too late to open a new credit card and earn the welcome bonus in time. Many cards have a three-month period to earn the welcome bonus, and it may take up to another eight weeks to get the bonus points deposited into your account.

That said, you can still open a travel credit card and book your trip with it; airfare and lodging can take a serious chunk out of your minimum spend to earn the welcome bonus.

» Learn more: How to spend $4,000 in 3 months

4. Check cancellation and change policies

General health and wellness remain unpredictable, so it’s worth checking change and cancellation policies before you book anything.

Several of the largest U.S.-based airlines have done away with change and cancellation fees for most fares, with the exception of basic economy tickets .

Though third-party airfare aggregators like Expedia and Travelocity are a great way to see flights on multiple airlines, you'll often have better protection and better access to customer service if you book directly with the carrier. Wherever you book, be aware of when you’ll be entitled to a refund or credit if you or the airline cancels.

You might also consider purchasing travel insurance, but read the fine print, since many policies might not cover COVID-related issues . Many credit cards offer certain limited travel protections, so familiarize yourself with the benefits of the card you use to book tickets as well.

Snagging travel insurance — which usually costs between 4-8% of your total estimated trip expenses — can be a smart money move, and is also one of our favorite holiday travel safety tips.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

5. Line up your travel perks for the holiday season

When the holiday season is upon us, you’ll be glad you took advantage of every available perk — or earned them ahead of time.

The big one for this year is TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . Lines at TSA security were staggeringly long at some airports this summer, and they might not get much better by the holidays. If your credit card comes with one of these security benefits , consider enrolling before it’s too late.

We have some creative ideas for ways you can gift TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to loved ones this year.

If you've been traveling this year and are close to earning elite status or the Southwest Companion Pass , think about how you can plan your fall travel to earn these perks ahead of the busy months. They might be easier to earn than you think. Hotels and airlines have continued to lower their elite status requirements this year. A quick mattress run might be all you need.

Not only will elite status benefits kick in as soon as you earn them, but you’ll have more time to use them since they’ll be valid through the end of next year.

» Learn more: How to save money, time and frustration on holiday travel

If you're planning holiday travel in 2024

If you take just one tip for booking holiday travel, it should be this: the earlier, the better. You’ll find cheaper rates and more availability. Plus, looser cancellation policies mean you can make adjustments later.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Based on Zip Code Change

Shop the Red Cross Store

Stay Safe on the Road as You Travel for Thanksgiving

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Millions of people will travel over the Thanksgiving holiday. The American Red Cross has steps to help you stay safe.

Nearly 49 million people are expected to take to the highways to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends* — making it one of the busiest times of the year for road traffic.

If you’re planning to travel by car, try to avoid the peak travel times and follow these American Red Cross tips to help keep you safe:

Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.

Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.

Share travel plans with a family member or friend.

Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.

Be well rested and alert.

Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.

Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.

Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.

Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.

If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

If winter weather threatens and you become stuck in the snow, these tips are for you:

Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.

Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.

Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the car.

Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.

Keep one window, away from the blowing wind, slightly open to let in fresh air.

Carry an emergency preparedness kit in the trunk.

Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.

PLANES, TRAINS Almost six million people* will take a plane or train to get to where they are spending their holiday. If you’re one of them:

Remember that everything you touch has to be touched by someone else — other passengers, luggage handlers, etc. Handle your own belongings as much as possible.

Wash your hands often with soap and water.

It’s flu season. If you’ve been sick or been in contact with someone who is sick, consider postponing your trip. You could be contagious for a week before symptoms appear.

Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.

Bring your own pillows and blankets — they can act as a shield against the seat itself.

Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

Bonus tip: Download the Red Cross Emergency app for safety tips and customizable weather alerts for where you and your loved ones live, and areas where you are traveling.

* According to AAA

About the American Red Cross:

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

4 travel tips to put your mind at ease during your next trip

The season of summer holiday travel is just around the corner.

You might find yourself heading to one of the U.S.’s many national parks, exploring a historic European city or jetting off somewhere tropical, like the Maldives.

That all sounds like fun, but unfortunately, travel mishaps may also happen. Luggage gets lost, passports get misplaced and phones may not work at international destinations when they aren't connected to Wi-Fi.

To avoid the headaches and prepare for whatever may come your way (or what accidentally gets left behind), follow these simple tips.

Watch this video to see the four things you should do before your next trip.

Learn more: Best credit cards of 2023

Pre-Travel Tips

All you need to get travel-ready is your smartphone.

Take pictures.

Take pictures and screenshots of the important items and documents before you leave for your trip.

This would include:

Your luggage
The photo page of your passport
Your ID cards
Any travel-related confirmations
Location and contact details for the places you’re staying

Creating an album on your phone or marking the images as favorites will make it easier to find them should you need them.

It couldn’t hurt to also share these pictures with a trusted loved one, like a significant other or close friend.

Turn on Notify When Left Behind

Turn on Notify When Left Behind if you use Apple products.

The feature, available on some iPhones, iPads, Macs, and AirPods, will notify you if you are separated from your items, like if you forget your AirPods in your hotel room.

To turn Notify When Left Behind on or off, open the “Find My” app, select the device and then toggle the setting on or off.

Tell your credit card company about your plans

Have you ever had your card payment declined when paying for something on a trip? That’s probably because your credit card company is picking up unusual activity and flagging it as suspicious.

Prevent that from happening by informing your credit card company of any upcoming domestic or international travel by setting a travel notification.

Many credit card companies allow you to set the notification online or via the app, though some companies may not require one at all.

Check international phone plans

If you want to use your phone when you're not connected to Wi-Fi while traveling, see what international phone plans your mobile carrier offers that fit your budget. An international plan will allow you to do things like make and receive phone calls, access social media and find directions as long as you have cell service. Without a plan, those functions will only be available when the device is connected to Wi-Fi.

Bonus tip, you can download maps to use offline and easily navigate a new place!

Reviewed-approved travel recommendations

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of experts test everything from sleep masks and travel pillows to luggage and packing cubes to help you shop for the best of the best.

Tracking game-changer: Apple AirTags
Our favorite sleep mask: Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask
A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger
Must-have luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage
Organization hack: Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cubes Set
The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus
Our favorite travel pillow: Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow
Top-rated adult coloring book: Cindy Elsharouni Stress Relieving Adult Coloring Book

13 useful things to know before you visit Dublin

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

These local tips on packing, transport and etiquette can help you plan the perfect visit to Dublin © maydays / Getty Images

As a born and bred Dubliner, I’ve spent most of my life trying to make sense of my hometown.

In one way it’s a cinch to figure out: you’ll get your bearings pretty quickly and realize that you can explore most of it on foot. But it’s not just its size that makes it such a great walking city. It’s the nature of life here that makes it the ideal flaneur destination, where you amble and devote yourself to the art of observing life around you.

Spend a few days in Dublin and you’ll soon appreciate that there is much going on in this busy little town, and that to really understand the place you’ll have to move here and spend the rest of your days figuring out its wonderful idiosyncrasies and multilayered sense of humour.

In the meantime, though, here are a few local tips that will smooth your introduction to a city that has the power to grab your imagination and not let it go.

1. Plan on having at least three days in Dublin

Dublin might be a small capital city, but it’ll demand as much time from you as you’re willing to give. You’ll need at least three days to even make a dent in the place: one day to explore even just a couple of the main sights, such as Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse . You’ll need another day to visit some of the city’s other brilliant attractions, like the Little Museum of Dublin , the Chester Beatty and just one branch of the National Museum of Ireland . And a third day to sample some whiskey and visit either of the city’s iconic cathedrals .

A couple of days more will give you a chance to stretch your legs and explore more of the city – such as the historic General Post Office and 14 Henrietta St on the northside. But you’ll have to build in some leisure time – after all there are 800 pubs in the city , a fine selection of music venues and a handful of great theatres. And what about going further afield, on a day trip to Howth , for instance, or beyond?

Planning on some beers while you're in Dublin? Here's our guide to the locals' favorite traditional pubs

A group of tourists on a guided tour of a Victorian prison building

2. Dublin is a casual kind of place so pack accordingly

You can wear pretty much whatever you want in Dublin, and smart casual is the most you’ll need for fancy dinners, the theater or the concert hall. Even most work places like to keep it casual as there’s a general perception in the city that dressing up is only for that special occasion, which work rarely is.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want an extra layer for when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening when the disappearing sun can make that day’s warmth feel like a distant memory.

Ultimately, the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket (preferably with a hood, unless you’re carrying an umbrella) and waterproof shoes should never be beyond reach, for the almost inevitable rain.

Plan your packing with our seasonal guide to Dublin through the year

3. Take advantage of discount cards

There is a range of discount cards that will save you money on attractions and transport. The GoCity All-Inclusive Pass (1–5 days, €79–164) gives you free entry to a bunch of top attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, EPIC The Heritage Museum, the Jameson Distillery Bow Street, and the Big Bus Hop On, Hop Off tour. For 25% off six of those attractions, there’s the DoDublin Days Out Card (€55).

As well as the Leap Card (see below), there are good discounts to be had with the DoDublin Freedom Ticket (€48), a 72-hour travel pass that covers all public transport as well as a hop on, hop off tour.

4. Get a Leap card for use on public transport

If you’re planning on using public transport in Dublin, be sure to get a Leap Card first, as it’s cheaper and more convenient than paying for fares directly. This green plastic card is available from most newsagents and can be used on all forms of transport in the city, including buses, DART, the Luas light rail system and commuter trains throughout the county. The Leap Visitor Card (1/3/7 days, €8/€16/€32) provides unlimited travel on public transport. It can be purchased in the city and at Dublin Airport, or ordered online and delivered to your home in advance of your trip.

To use the card, just tap your card on the machine as you get on: for Luas, rail and DART services you will also need to tap off when you get off (but not for buses).

You top up the card with any amount you want (there’s a minimum of €5) at newsagents, any Luas, DART and commuter rail machines, or by downloading the Leap Top-Up App onto any NFC-enabled iPhone or Android phone: hold the card to the back of the phone and you can top up, collect pre-paid tickets and check your balance.

If you’re using a regular Leap card, rather than the Visitor Card, the TFI 90 Minute Fare applies to journeys made by Dublin Bus, Luas and most Dart trains. Any journey less than 90 minutes (including transfer times) costs €2.

Here's more useful transportation information for Dublin

5. Uber is not the best taxi option in Dublin

There are plenty of taxis in Dublin, but they can be tough to find late at night, especially at weekends when thousands of Dubliners are looking to head home to the suburbs after a night out in the city. Uber does exist in Dublin, but it’s oddly expensive; by far the most popular taxi hailing app is Freenow , which most of the city’s taxis are connected to. There are taxi ranks in the city center, but hailing them through the app is the preferred (and most convenient) option for most.

Diners eat at tables outside a restaurant as a member of waiting staff walks by them smiling

6. Get to grips with Dublin’s dining habits

Dubliners rarely eat breakfast out, so you might struggle to find a decent spot for breakfast that opens before 9am or 9:30am. The good news is that a decent cup of coffee is a non-negotiable, so there are plenty of places open by 8am to cater for caffeinated employees.

Discounted lunch specials are common, especially in the busy city center. Book tables at popular restaurants at least a few days in advance if you want to avoid disappointment or dodge the 5:30pm seating nobody else wants. For the really fancy spots including those with Michelin stars, you’ll have to plan well in advance. Some (like Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud ) will accommodate reservations no more than a month in advance, but a place like Chapter One opens its reservations list three months in advance, and then only for blocks of two months. Most tables are nabbed up pretty quickly, but if you miss out you can join the online waitlist.

7. Many of the city’s museums are free to visit

Most of the city’s larger cultural institutions are free to visit, including the three branches of the National Museum of Ireland, the National Gallery , the Chester Beatty and the Dublin City Gallery-the Hugh Lane – although there is a charge for some of the exhibitions. There are free tickets for the tours of Áras an Uachtharáin , the official residence of the Irish president in Phoenix Park and there is no charge to visit the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Kilmainham.

Smaller, privately owned museums charge a fee, but it’s rarely more than €10, and you won’t need to book your ticket in advance.

Traveling to Dublin on a budget? Here are some other free experiences to consider

8. Bottled water is a needless extravagance

In most restaurants in Dublin you’ll be offered the choice of water – still or sparkling. Unless you have a particular fondness for a specific brand of bottled water, you should always opt for tap as the city’s supply is perfectly safe, free and generally excellent. Some restaurants operate their own in-house filtration system, so for a minimal cost (usually €1–2) you have your choice of still or sparkling tap water. Same goes for filling your water bottle: tap water is fine and you don’t need to buy pricey and environmentally unfriendly plastic bottles to replenish your supply.

9. In the pub, it’s all about the rounds system

Dubliners, like the rest of the Irish, put great store in conviviality and a generous spirit. And both of these qualities are embodied in the rounds system, whereby if someone buys you a drink, you are obliged to buy them one in return. Getting sucked into the rounds system is a great way of getting to know Dubliners: strike up a conversation and, at the appropriate moment (ie when they’re just about to finish their drink), ask what they’re "having" – and before you know it you’re multiple drinks and conversations deep into a blossoming friendship.

Needless to say, you don’t have to take part in buying rounds, but if you want to understand the social glue that binds people together in Dublin, there aren't many better ways than having a few drinks with them.

People enjoying nightlife on a cobbled street outside some pubs in a city

10. Dublin's nightlife is expensive

Dubliners love a good night out, but the city is a pretty expensive place to party in. The capital is notorious for the price of the pint of beer, which is higher than anywhere else in Ireland. As a result, many Dubliners will do pre-drinks at home before heading out, usually between 9 and 10pm.

Happy hour promotions are illegal in Ireland; expect to pay anything from €7–10 for a pint in the city center, but keep an eye out on pubs that sneakily raise the price of a pint later in the night, presumably when punters are too drunk to notice. It’s illegal to charge a price other than what is indicated; if it happens, your best reaction is to complain and leave.

Licensing laws are stricter in Dublin than almost any other European capital. Pubs can serve alcohol until 11:30pm Monday to Thursday, to 12:30am Friday and Saturday, and to 11pm on Sunday. Many premises apply for special exemption orders, which allows them to serve until 2:30am – usually from Thursday to Saturday nights. Nightclubs usually go until 3am, but in a lot of venues there’s barely a distinction between a huge pub that turns up the music really loudly and a dedicated club for dancing.

11. Learn to take a "slagging" among friends

Dubliners are, for the most part, an informal and easy-going lot who don't stand on excessive ceremony and generally prefer not to make too much fuss. That doesn't mean that they don't abide by certain rules, or that there isn't a preferred way of doing things in the city, though. But the transgressions of the unknowing are both forgiven and often enjoyed – the accidental faux pas is a great source of entertainment in a city that has made "slagging", or teasing, a veritable art form.

Indeed, slagging is a far more reliable indicator of the strength of friendship than virtually any kind of compliment: a fast, self-deprecating wit and an ability to take a joke in good spirits will win you plenty of friends. Mind you, even slagging has its hidden codes, and is only acceptable among friends: it wouldn't do at all to follow an introduction to someone by making fun of them!

12. LGBTIQ+ travelers are welcome in Dublin

Dublin has a pretty vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene, with some well-established bars and club nights as well as activities including hiking and sea swimming. The best-known gay bar in town is the George on South Great George’s St, followed by Pantibar , which is owned by renowned activist and drag queen Rory O’Neill, aka Panti Bliss. June’s Pride Festival is the second-biggest celebration in the city after St Patrick’s Day, a raucous festival of color and fun that runs over five days. August sees GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival , Ireland’s only dedicated film festival, while the International Gay Theatre Festival usually takes place in May.

13. Dublin is generally a safe city with good health care

Health and safety should not be an issue during a visit to Dublin. Pharmacies selling basic medication are easy to come by, and crime is not a major concern. Taking normal precautions (eg keeping an eye on belongings in crowds) should be sufficient. O'Connell St and the streets immediately around it can get a little shady after dark, so keep your wits about you.

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Going on a holiday needn’t be a fraught experience …

The experts: travel agents on 20 ways to book a sustainable and sensational summer holiday

Keen to get away? Here is how to find a great deal, pick the perfect destination and support the local community

A holiday should be relaxing, but booking one can be a fraught experience, with days lost to endless scrolling, comparing reviews and prices. How can you be sure you are getting a good deal? Travel agents share their tips for the most affordable, sustainable and memorable trips.

1. Book like an agent

“Everybody views themselves as a travel agent and they can be up to a point,” says Paul Sharp from Newcastle upon Tyne, who operates as part of the Travel Counsellors network and has 30 years’ experience in the industry. He says the rise of budget airlines and online booking have led to people feeling confident about organising trips themselves. What is the one thing we should know when doing so? “It is a false economy to book things separately because you have no protection,” Sharp says. He gives the example of someone planning a trip to South Africa to watch rugby, who booked flights with the airline and hotels directly and rugby tickets elsewhere. The game was cancelled but the flights and hotel were non-refundable. If they had been booked together, the trip would have been covered under package travel regulations. “Book with a company you trust and know – there are a lot of sites that crop up and you don’t really know their provenance,” he says.

2. Be an early bird

“Planning in advance is always going to be better value,” says Helen Youngman , an independent travel agent and partner at 360 Private Travel , based near Norwich. “Late deals do exist, but a lot of hotels use ‘dynamic pricing’, which means prices increase as availability goes down. Flights are only going to increase in price the closer you get to the departure date because the fuller the flight gets, the more expensive it will be.” Sharp adds: “Don’t hang on for a last-minute deal because you could end up disappointed. Scheduled flights tend to be available about 11 months in advance, so that is the best time to book. Also, at that stage, a lot of hotels and accommodation providers will have early-bird specials.”

3. If you do book late, be flexible

Jessica Bollinger, who works in the Bristol branch of Danish travel agent Kilroy , which specialises in youth and adventure holidays, agrees that late deals are now something of a myth. “They are not unheard of, but with a last-minute deal there are certain things you’re not going to get. So you have to be really open-minded as to where you’re going to go,” she says.

4. Avoid peak season

The cheapest time to travel is always outside the school holidays, says Youngman, with Christmas and new year the most expensive times. Can you get a good deal if you fly on Christmas or New Year’s Day itself? Sometimes, she says, “but a lot of people are catching on to that trick”. If you have to go in the school holidays, be open to going somewhere off the beaten track. “Being clever about destinations is a good plan,” says Youngman. “In Europe, look farther east at places such as Montenegro, Albania and Georgia. And Morocco is a good summer destination for families.”

5. Midweek can be more affordable

“Midweek can be cheaper, it just depends on availability,” says Youngman. “A Thursday to Monday trip is going to be slightly more expensive than Monday to Friday, but all travel fares are based on availability, so the further in advance you can book, the better.”

6. Take out travel insurance when you book

A lot of people sort out their insurance at the airport, says Sharp, but it is best to do it as soon as you have booked your trip. He says: “Travel insurance doesn’t just cover you if you lose a bag or are poorly while you are away. It also covers you should you need to cancel for an insurable reason before you travel.” This includes illness or a bereavement.

7. On solo trips, consider a group tour

‘Some companies offer specialist female-only tours.’

If you are travelling alone, “pretty much anywhere is possible”, says Youngman. “Embarking on your first solo trip can be daunting, which is why small group tours are an amazing way to travel with like-minded people. Some companies I work with are doing specialist female-only tours with visits to female entrepreneurs, co-operatives, makers and bakers. Small group tours are great because they handle all the logistics, include really immersive experiences and are safe. They pick you up from the airport, and from that point onwards, you’re travelling with other people and you’ve got an expert guide.”

8. Have a daily budget

“We advise setting a daily limit for yourself while travelling and then multiplying that number by the days you are away to get the amount to save for your spending money,” says Bollinger. “When you work it out like this, it makes a lot more sense in people’s minds, especially young people who don’t have much budgeting experience. It also keeps you accountable to yourself, so you don’t blow everything right at the beginning and then have nothing left for the end.” To stick to a tight budget, she says: “Cook food as you go along and use public transport instead of tourist buses – this will really help you save money.”

9. Consider all-inclusive options

“If you are going to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the hotel, I recommend upgrading to an all-inclusive option if possible,” says Youngman, “especially if you’d like a cocktail or two and you’re grazing throughout the day. Otherwise it can all add up and when you check out it costs a fortune.” With active holidays such as skiing or safaris, she adds: “If you have the option to choose an all-inclusive package that includes the activities, food and drink, that is usually a more cost-effective way of travelling. Because sometimes they will really sting you on the extras and it will be more expensive.”

10. Work your way around the world

“A working holiday is a great way to fund your trip,” says Bollinger, who helps people book travel to Australia, New Zealand and Canada by organising working holidays so they can extend their stay. “A lot of jobs will be hospitality-related, but if you go to a more rural spot you can do farm work, and if you have qualifications already, sometimes those can be used. Working holidays in Canada are often at ski resorts near Vancouver, so you get the added benefit of being in a beautiful place to take advantage of the winter sports.”

11. Travel as sustainably as possible

‘By travelling sustainably, you have more time to absorb the culture surrounding you.’

“You can get to most places in Europe by train , so if you are open to slowing down and having a more relaxed itinerary, not only are you travelling more sustainably, but you have more time to absorb the culture surrounding you,” says Youngman. “Be good to the environment you are travelling to see.” She stresses the importance of limiting flights as much as possible, especially internally, and avoiding indirect long-haul options. “We highly recommend ‘open-jaw flights’, which means you fly into one destination and out of another, to limit the number of flights,” says Bollinger. “We also promote travelling for longer in one destination as opposed to trying to go to many in a short time, and travelling overland when possible, instead of taking multiple flights.”

12. Offset carbon emissions with a reputable company

When considering carbon from flights, says Thomas Power of Pura Aventura , a B Corp sustainable travel company in Brighton: “Don’t believe the airline schemes, or anyone else who promises you absolution for a few quid. While 85% of offset schemes may be worthless, there are high-quality carbon credits starting at about £20 a tonne.” These can be bought to compensate for CO 2 emissions. Companies such as “ C Level help you at least take positive action to balance your impact”, says Power.

13. Think of responsible travel as a ‘fair exchange’

When travelling, says Power, consider: “What are we giving and what are we receiving? Is it a fair exchange? Is somebody getting something in return for what I am receiving in this transaction?” This applies to everything from “taking a cruise to Venice and not giving anything to the city, to going camping in Sussex and getting a supermarket delivery to your tent instead of going to the village shop or buying eggs from the house down the road”. This concept of “fair exchange” can be beneficial for everyone, he says, by giving you access to unique experiences. “In terms of the economy, the less money that leaves the village, town or city, the better,” he says.

14. Embrace the great outdoors

‘The carbon footprints of outdoor holidays tend to be much lower than hotel stays.’

If you camp out “you are closer to nature than any other accommodation option”, says Brodie Farrow, of the online camping and touring travel agent Pitchup . There are many benefits to this, she says: “It is really good for mental health. It is also a much more sustainable option: the carbon footprints of outdoor holidays tend to be much lower than hotel stays, as people travel by car rather than flying and it promotes local produce and low-impact activities such as hiking in the surrounding area. The accommodation or pitches are much less carbon intensive than hotels, too. And you have a positive impact on the community that you are visiting: camping attracts a higher number of customers at a lower cost than hotels do, which can help to underpin the viability of local facilities such as the shop, the bar and takeaway, and that benefits the wider community.”

15. If you are camping-phobic, glamp

“There really is something for everyone,” says Farrow. “You can get glamping accommodation with four-poster beds if you prefer camping in luxury, or you can go really wild and remote, with no facilities, out on your own and back to nature. I think you would be hard-pressed to say that there is nothing that appeals.” Although glamping has become a fairly pricey option, she says: “Some types are much cheaper than others. You can get some ‘pod-only’ camping accommodation, where you bring your own bedding, starting from £15 a night.”

16. If the weather is terrible …

… And you are under canvas, “try to keep your bedroom a wet-gear-free zone”, says Farrow. “Store and dry wet stuff in your porch area rather than in your bedroom compartment. Protect your equipment by putting it in plastic bags or dry bags. Don’t let anything touch your tent walls or you will have soggy socks.” For activities, she suggests, “swimming in the sea, because you are wet already, or going to the pub”. If you are disappointed by the weather on a non-camping holiday, “as annoying as it is, try to embrace it”, says Sharp. Many people come back from their holidays exhausted because they try to see and do everything when they’re away. Instead, he says: “Have a lie-in, ask local people which is the best restaurant for a long, lazy lunch and, most of all, relax and recharge your batteries – it’s a holiday after all.”

17. For best value destinations, try …

Belgrade has an underground culture scene similar to Berlin 20 years ago.

“Go for Belgrade over Berlin,” says Youngman. “It has an underground culture scene very similar to Berlin 20 years ago.” For backpackers, Bollinger suggests: “Some places in Central America can be really affordable. Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala are good options for someone wanting to think outside the box.” Sharp says there are more affordable options in “Cyprus, Bulgaria, Turkey and Egypt, compared with Spain and the Balearics, which are becoming increasingly expensive due to cost of living increases”. If you are looking for a staycation, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Cornwall are some of the most popular UK locations on Pitchup, says Farrow, which can inflate the price. Locations such as Pembrokeshire and the Isle of Wight are cheaper.

18. For a trip of a lifetime that doesn’t cost the earth …

“North Macedonia is just amazing,” says Youngman. “Ohrid has beautiful cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture , fantastic food and wine and you can visit the most biodiverse lake in Europe.” Farrow says: “I camped at the foot of Ben Nevis last year before hiking up it. The weather was terrible but it was worth it for the unreal views.” While Bollinger’s most memorable trip was “Interrailing in Europe and finding a way to do things on my own. It was before smartphones, so it was a very interesting experience and built up my confidence in travelling.”

19. If in doubt, follow local people

“Live like a local person by taking local buses and eating in local spots,” says Bollinger. “It is going to save you money, and will also let you experience life in a different way.” Power adds: “People want to go to Peru but they never come back talking about Machu Picchu, they come back talking about the people they met. Buy local and connections will happen for you. In the absence of interaction with your host community, the things you see are just wallpaper.”

20. And remember: you get what you pay for

“If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” says Sharp.

The experts

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The ultimate guide to driving safely and avoiding distractions

Rush-hour Traffic on Bolshoy Krasnokholmsky Bridge

Being able to drive a car is an incredibly useful skill which allows us to quickly and efficiently get from point A to point B. As I drive for a lot of my Moscow tours , I pride myself on being a good and safe driver – my clients wouldn't appreciate getting into an accident on their holidays!

It’s important to note that around 95% of all road accidents can, at least in part, be blamed on human error and 75% of them can be wholly blamed on that, so it’s down to us as drivers to be safer. Here is my ultimate guide to driving safely and avoiding distractions.

Leave your phone alone

The official laws on this are different from country to country, but even if it is something that legal in your country, it is still a bad idea to use your phone while you are driving . This includes making phone calls, checking messages or setting up your maps. Basically, anything where you are not paying full attention to the road and could miss something important is a bad idea!

Don’t let passengers distract you

It is not only the responsibility of the driver to ensure that the journey is a safe one, in fact, the passengers in the car have a role to play too. If the other people in the car are distracting the driver, this could cause an accident and is therefore something that needs to be stopped. For example, children in the back seat arguing and messing around can be really dangerous for the driver and they should be made aware of this.

It can be easy to become a little complacent when driving but this is when accidents happen. If you find yourself feeling a bit tired, or realize you’re not concentrating well, it’s time to pull over and grab a coffee or a nap. Not being alert will reduce your reaction times which can cause issues with braking etc. You also need to be aware of what the other drivers on the road are doing – if you’re not aware of their actions you can’t react to them.

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Moscow Winter Photo Tour with Soichi Hayashi (Japan) on Jan 25, 2018 Personalized guided Moscow city tour in winter season with my dear client and professional photographer from Japan, Soichi Hayashi, that was held on January 25, 2018. Introduction slideshow and photographs with descriptions.
Noble writers buried on Novedevichy Cemetery Useful guide to find locations of famous Russian and Soviet writers buried on Novodevichy cemetery with short backgrounds and pictures of the tombs and personal photographs.
Golden Ring of Russia Winter Tour with Adrian Durrani on Feb 15-17, 2019 Introduction to the personalized long distance countryside tour to the Cities of Golden Ring of Russia with my dear client from Denmark, Adrian Durrani on February 15-17, 2019.
Moscow Evening Photoshoot Celebrating 2nd Wedding Anniversary Moscow evening (twilight) photo session on July 1st, 2019 during night tour with my Dear clients from Iran, Mozhgan and Siamak, celebrating their 2nd wedding anniversary in Russia.

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Guide, Driver and Photographer Arthur Lookyanov

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

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The 10 best countries for solo travel – and top tips for travelling alone

While travelling with friends, family or a partner can be a great way to spend quality time with loved ones, embracing alone time can open the door to a wealth of new cultures and experiences .

Solo holidays can range from short-haul city breaks to bucket-list backpacking adventures and active excursions closer to home.

But where to start? Holidays for a party of one are more popular than ever in 2024, though inconsistent pricing and solo supplements can be discouraging for those new to lone adventuring.

And, while solo travellers may end up paying more for holidays thanks to single occupancy rates, the freedom of choice without the burden of compromise is thrown in for free.

From dining with the locals in Vietnam to guided tours of the Golden Circle in Iceland , there are myriad destinations well-suited to travellers looking to go it alone.

Here are some top countries for solo travel, plus tips to plan and execute a successful trip of self-discovery.

Best for: Singles city breaks

What better way to kick start a solo adventure than with a long weekend in a city that embraces the essence of hygge (a feeling of comfort and contentment)? Alfresco summers meet cosy winters in Denmark and, while Scandinavian prices can be eye-wateringly expensive, it’s not impossible to pull off a city break on a budget.

Eastern capital Copenhagen is consistent in its happy atmosphere, low crime rate and world-renowned cuisine. From budget hot dog stands laden with pickled condiments to the tasting menu at three Michelin-starred restaurant Geranium, gourmet food joints pepper the candle-lit streets. Experience “faellesspisning” or communal eating – affordable bites in the charming company of strangers – if you’re a solo traveller looking to socialise.

Make your money go even further by joining in with laid-back Scandi culture and renting a bike, staying in buzzing hostels such as the central Danhostel and purchasing a Copenhagen Card to get money off attractions, including a boat tour of the city’s canals.

Free activities such as walking along waterfront neighbourhood Nyhavn and catching a summer sunset from the opera house are also facilitated by an efficient ‘S-tog’ train network and buses.

And there’s more to Denmark than its effortlessly stylish capital. Visit Odense for a Hans Christian Anderson literary experience fans of The Little Mermaid will love, and take in the multitude of architecture in the old Viking fishing village-turned-second city, Aarhus, for an insight into to Danish history.

Best for: Solo island hopping

Thailand is a welcoming haven for single party animals or beach bums travelling the well-trodden backpacking trail through southeast Asia .

A solo slice of Thai comes with an affordable price tag once you’re there. Trains, buses, long-tail boats and tuk-tuks transport travellers to the street food of lively night markets and cooking schools well versed in pad Thai and gaeng daeng for just a few pounds, while there are plentiful cheap and cheerful hostels to stay in, helping solo travellers meet new people and save in accommodation costs.

Culture-stacked cities like Bangkok meet jungle-clad interiors in a fusion of thrilling nightlife, rejuvenating yoga ashrams and authentic Buddhist temples.

Island hopping across isolated archipelagos is also often a staple of a tourist’s Thailand itinerary. With 1,430 islands to choose from, including Phuket and the Phi Phi on the emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, try Koh Samui for safe, sociable hostels including The Rock Samui and catch the ferry to Koh Phangan to experience festival-style nights at a bucket-list full moon party.

Best for: Personal safety

Find peace of mind travelling alone in clean, safe cities as you experience first-hand the Japanese culture of kindness and respect. Crime and harassment are rare and the efficient train network even features women-only carriages .

Master of hi-tech and hub of creative fashion, Tokyo is the ideal place to start your first solo trip to Japan, but its glitzy tapestry of skyscrapers and all-night karaoke isn’t the only bit you should experience.

Venture to Kyoto via the revolutionary bullet trains to regroup in the ethereal landscapes surrounding Mount Fuji. In spring, the city is awash with pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and rural temple tours tempt visitors into serene Japanese gardens to experience customary tea ceremonies. Ski slopes in Hokkaidō are also great for snowsports enthuiasts.

While not the cheapest destination for holidaymakers on this list, travellers can save on expenses by picking up food from Japan’s extensive variety of vending machines, 100-yen stores and Japanese Rail passes . Capsule hotels like the Nine Hours chain and traditional ryokan rooms with hot springs offer classic Japanese zen in rural areas and the city at affordable prices.

What's more, eating alone is celebrated as the norm at casual restaurants familiar with seating tables for one, while language difficulties are usually met with polite patience.

Best for: Short-haul travel

Swerve language barriers and long stints in the air with a holiday to visit our Irish neighbours. The Emerald Isle has forged a reputation as a home from home for British travellers, whether they get there by hopping on a ferry or a flight.

Crumbling castles, rambling countryside and live music await; from Dublin to Cork and Limerick, cosmopolitan cities sit side by side with verdant landscapes blessed with an abundance of walking and cycling routes that are fun to explore as a lone ranger.

Dublin houses more cultural wonders than the famous Guinness Storehouse – nurse a proper pint in traditional old-stone Dublin pub away from tourist favourite, Temple Bar, and discover why the Irish capital is the Unesco city of literature.

Eslewhere, solo day trips can include the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher and the busy shops of Graton Street. The best way to get around is by car, and hiring your own is advisable for road trips to more remote areas such as Galway and the Aran Islands.

Best for: Social travellers

A favourite with backpackers, Vietnam’s well-established tourist route takes the hassle out of planning for solo travellers eager to buddy up along the way.

Hue’s imperial citadel, capital Hanoi’s French colonial villas, wartime relics including the Cu Chi tunnels, blissful beaches on Phu Quoc Island and rainbow lanterns at Hoi An’s monthly full moon festival all make Vietnam a compelling destination.

Solo tourists can hop on the back of a motorbike with a local for a tour of the chaotic Ho Chi Minh City , or cruise to the limestone islands of Unesco-listed Ha Long Bay on targeted excursions for like-minded travellers.

In this wallet-friendly southeast Asian country, easy-to-navigate transport networks, overnight buses that take you down the otherworldly coast, and a sociable, hostel-heavy accommodation scene with bargain price tags add up to a destination that’s ideal for lone travellers keen to make friends.

Best for: Self-discovery

Canada , famed for its friendly people with a knack for warm hospitality, is the ideal place for a lone globetrotter to switch off and get back to nature.

Th world's second biggest country balances cosmopolitan cities with unspoilt, remote wilderness. You’ll be greeted with trendy bars in Toronto and the urban oasis of Stanley Park in waterfront Vancouver , while road trips across the North American giant take you through expansive landscapes, mountain peaks and dazzlingly blue lakes.

A treasure trove of outdoorsy activities can be enjoyed year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in Whistler to kayaking, ice hockey and hiking amid the enchanting glacial lakes and grizzly bears of Banff National Park and the vast Rocky Mountains.

Best for: Off-grid adventures

Iceland is guaranteed to squash any feelings of boredom with its extensive menu of outdoor activities, from snowmobiling to horse riding and hikes in the rugged volcanic landscape.

Aptly nicknamed the “Land of Ice and Fire”, Iceland is a playground for nature enthusiasts to go off-grid solo. Black sand beaches, waterfalls, sapphire glaciers and the geysers of the Golden Circle ring road are all natural thrills in this largely safe and friendly country.

Think whale watching during the midnight sun, hunting the colourful waltz of the Northern Lights and the famous milky waters of the Blue Lagoon spa on a solo city break to the capital, Reykjavik .

Best for: Female solo travellers

In the heart of Europe, Slovenia’s small size and charming spirit make it a hit with female solo travellers.

A fairly priced public transport network facilitates travel between cities and English is widely spoken, enabling easier exploration of Slovenia’s beautiful scenery.

Leafy Ljubljana , the capital, is a tangle of terracotta riverside cafes, markets and family-owned restaurants offering sheep cheeses, struklji rolls and orange wines.

But Slovenia’s crowning jewel is its famous lakes fringed with traditional, pretty villages. Lake Bled, for example, is home to medieval castles, wild swimming opportunities and traditional plenta boat rides.

New Zealand

Best for: hiking holidays.

There’s nowhere like New Zealand for a hiking holiday off the beaten path, and it’s ideal for solo adrenaline seekers, thanks to its peaceful and safe reputation.

The English-speaking Pacific paradise offers working holiday opportunities for those looking to secure a travel visa, plus bucket-list activities such as helicopter rides, whale watching and bungee jumping fill a prolonged stopover.

From the home of hobbits in Rotorua to cruising to the waterfalls of Milford Sounds by boat and exploring the Maori culture of vibrant Christchurch, New Zealand is well worth the ultra-long journey.

In between days spent amid its film-worthy natural landscapes, head to Auckland to climb Mount Eden and the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or visit the fine wine regions of Waiheke Island, known for their Sauvignon Blancs.

Best for: Culture and cuisine

An unspoiled country closed to tourists until 1974, Bhutan is a surprisingly popular destination for a solo holiday.

With a confection of cultural wonders in lush green valleys, fortresses and traditional villages, the Himalayan country appeals to single travellers lusting to step back in time.

Find Bhutanese-style red-roofed houses in the quiet capital of Thimphu, yak herding in Laya and the cliff-hugging Tiger’s Nest Monastery at home in harmonious Paro – not forgetting delicious momo dumplings.

The landlocked nation is ideal for trekking after the 403km long Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022; the mountain kingdom can be explored on private tours with a local guide.

Bhutan’s Buddhist culture has a focus on sustainability that permeates all levels of life, particularly in strict tourism regulations. Factor the country’s steep tourism tax , designed to deter budget travellers and preserve Bhutan’s heritage, into your trip costs –now $800 (£627) for a traveller staying eight days.

Top 10 tips for solo travellers

Do your research: take your time to plan ahead before leaving for a solo trip

Be safety conscious: don’t share your specific location online while you’re still there, be aware of your surroundings and stay connected with people at home about your travel plans

Be flexible: spontaneous plans are sometimes the best kind and things going “wrong” often lead to the most memorable experiences

Try something new: whether local cuisines or a new activity, push yourself out of your comfort zone to get the most out of travelling solo

Stay in a hostel: this can be the best way to meet new and likeminded people for social butterflies

Learn to love your own company: there’s a freedom to alone time

Practice local phrases: a “please” and “thank you” in the local language go a long way

Utilise public transport: don’t blow your budget on Ubers and taxis if you don’t have to

Bring back-up: printed documents, portable chargers, emergency cash and travel insurance are solo travel essentials

Don’t overpack: don’t fall at the first hurdle by bringing your entire wardrobe

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UK survey exposes Brits’ biggest holiday gripes

Have you ever sighed at the sight of your holiday budget stretching thin, or groaned as your hotel Wi-Fi fizzled out? You’re not alone. In an ExpressVPN survey reaching out to 2,000 Brits, we uncover what really makes or breaks the UK holiday experience: from budgeting battles to the hunt for dependable Wi-Fi, and everything in between.

With 32% of Brits leaning towards staycations to avoid rising costs, budgeting is clearly a priority in holiday planning. However, financial constraints are not the only concern. Safety issues and the search for reliable Wi-Fi loom large, with dirty hotel rooms and delayed flights also ranking high on the list of complaints.

Yet, the need to stay connected never wanes. Despite varying concerns about online security, many of us still log onto public W-Fi to check emails, share holiday snaps, or stream our favorite shows—sometimes overlooking the risks in favor of convenience and connection.

This dive into British travel habits uncovers a mix of cost-consciousness and the constant draw of the digital world. Follow along as we unpack how to tackle these challenges for smoother, safer trips ahead.

Jump to… The cost of living’s impact on UK holidays UK travel tensions Wi-Fi’s role in UK holidaymaking The dangers of using public Wi-Fi on holiday The easiest way to stay safe online Tips for protecting your privacy on holiday

How cost of living impacts UK holidays

As the UK grapples with an unprecedented cost of living surge, British holidaymakers are feeling the pinch. With basics like food and power hitting record prices , the simple joy of a getaway feels more out of reach. This economic squeeze, kicked off by global upheavals and supply chain issues , has nudged a lot of us to rethink our holiday plans, leaning heavily towards staycations as a wallet-friendly move.

According to our findings, 33% of Brits have traveled domestically in the last 12 months, drawn by the dual appeal of cost savings and local discovery. This tilt towards homegrown holidays is echoed by 32% of respondents who say they consider staycations as a smart move against the backdrop of rising costs.

But it’s not all about staying put. While 23% of Brits have recently traveled abroad, a noticeable 27% share that the spike in living costs has clipped their wings for summer travels overseas. Additionally, 19% of Brits say they’ve skipped traveling altogether in the last year, a stark indicator of how deeply financial pressures are cutting into leisure time.

UK travel tensions: From takeoff to check-out

However, for those Brits who do venture out, whether domestically or abroad, it’s more than financial constraints that can dampen the holiday spirit. Our findings delve into a range of holiday peeves that often come between British travelers and the good time they’re after.

In-flight frustrations

The journey itself is fraught with its own set of irritations. Delayed flights top the list, with 42% of travelers saying it sets a sour tone even before the holiday properly begins. The personal space invasion of seat-kicking neighbors and overly reclined seats frustrates 35% and 30%, respectively, while 28% lament the presence of drunk passengers. Even the basics like legroom and onboard amenities—or the lack thereof—draw irritation from a significant number of British travelers.

Dirty and unkempt holiday accommodation annoys over 50% of Brits

Upon arrival, accommodation issues can further test traveler patience. A staggering 54% report dissatisfaction with dirty rooms or inadequate housekeeping. The disappointment of poor quality or unhygienic food comes in second, cited by 39%. Noise, unhelpful staff, and the gap between promotional pictures and reality are other common complaints, alongside long transfer times to the hotel, resort, or Airbnb.

Additionally, 10% get annoyed by fellow holidaymakers hogging sun chairs, especially when they wake up early to reserve their spot. 8% of UK travelers also get irked when they can’t stream their favorite shows while away, while 7% get annoyed by travel reps trying to sell them local excursions, and 6% get irritated when their hotel or resort doesn’t have decent entertainment options like bingo or pool games.

Petty crime and local attitudes rank high as most bothersome destination issues

Despite the exciting prospect of getting to explore new destinations, more annoyances await. According to our respondents, top concerns about the holiday destination itself include the physical security of the area, with 41% of travelers wary of pickpockets and antisocial behavior. Close behind are frustrations with local hospitality, where 37% find locals’ behavior towards tourists less than welcoming. The cost of dining out annoys 34%, highlighting the price sensitivity that extends beyond just booking the trip.

Attractions—or the lack thereof—also play a significant role, with 30% disappointed by the shortage of interesting things to do or visit while on holiday. Poor transport options and the feeling of being trapped in a tourist bubble without authentic experiences add to the gripes, cited by 25% and 24% of respondents, respectively. And, considering our constant need to connect, 18% are turned off by high data roaming charges, underscoring the importance of staying connected affordably.

The struggle for connectivity

Speaking of staying connected, Wi-Fi issues are another modern-day holiday headache. Frustrations begin mid-flight for 12% of travelers irked by the absence of onboard Wi-Fi, setting the stage for a journey where our digital expectations are immediately challenged. And the issue doesn’t stop once they land. A significant 24% of holidaymakers report being vexed by slow or nonexistent Wi-Fi in their accommodations—a stark reminder of the importance we place on digital access, even in moments of relaxation.

Read more: How concerned are travelers about cybercrime during their vacations?

Wi-Fi’s role in UK holidaymaking

In fact, with up to 60% of Brits taking two or more mobile devices with them on holiday (including smartphones, laptops, iPads, tablets, and virtual assistants like Alexa), and a significant number using public Wi-Fi for activities ranging from social media access (43%) to general internet browsing (42%), it’s clear that staying connected is fast becoming an indispensable part of the UK holiday experience.

8% of Brits use Wi-Fi on holiday to access questionable content

While the majority of Brits tap into public Wi-Fi hotspots during holidays to stay in touch with loved ones (42%) or catch up on news (34%), conduct online banking (27%), or work (22%), a fraction engage in more precarious online activities. Notably, 3% of individuals use Wi-Fi for gambling or viewing adult content , and 2% for exploring the dark web .

What do you use Wi-Fi for when on holiday?

Read more: 8 tips for online safety this travel season

Despite 62% of users expressing worry about their online activities being monitored on public Wi-Fi, and 13% citing cybercrime as a holiday concern, a large number continue to rely on these networks to stay connected.

Although it’s reassuring that 30% of travelers take extra security measures with their devices on public Wi-Fi, such as careful location selection or using VPNs, the fact that 7% disregard Wi-Fi security on both personal and work devices is alarming.

Here’s why.

The dangers of using public Wi-Fi

Using public Wi-Fi when you’re on vacation is a prime example of a convenience that comes with risks. Tourists use it everywhere—to get directions, to post on social media, or to check in with family. But each time you connect to a public network, you’re potentially exposing yourself to cyber attacks.

Here are some of the ways your personal information can be compromised over public Wi-Fi networks:

Evil-twin attack. With this method, criminals create a network with a similar name to the public network and gain direct access to the computer of any guests who accidentally connect to it.
Man-in-the-middle attack. In man-in-the-middle attacks , a hacker secretly relays and possibly alters the communication between two parties who believe they are directly communicating with each other.
Packet sniffing. This is where a hacker records the packets of data that pass between you and an unsecured Wi-Fi router.
Snooping by Wi-Fi admin. Someone who oversees the network (such as hotel staff) could deduce what sites each guest has been visiting based on Wi-Fi logs.

All of the above risks can be mitigated by using a high-quality VPN on your device when you go online.

VPN: the easiest way to stay safe online on vacation

Connecting to public Wi-Fi is like a reflex for many of us while traveling. It’s convenient, sure, but safe? Not so much. However, staying safe isn’t about avoiding public Wi-Fi altogether; it’s about how you use it.

Enter VPNs. Using a VPN on all your devices encrypts your internet connection, essentially scrambling the data so it becomes unreadable to anyone who might try to intercept it. This includes ISPs, the admins running the public Wi-Fi, governments , or man-in-the-middle attackers.

Now, let’s talk about making VPN protection as seamless as possible, especially when you’re on the move. ExpressVPN’s Aircove Go is a travel router designed with your digital safety in mind. Imagine connecting to any Wi-Fi network anywhere in the world and having all your devices immediately covered by VPN protection. That’s exactly what Aircove Go offers.

Other tips for protecting your privacy on holiday

On top of using a VPN when traveling, it’s important to find a balance between wanting to share those picture-perfect moments and keeping your private life, well, private. Here are some tips to keep your personal details a little more secure while traveling:

Think before you share: Ask yourself if what you’re about to post on social media could give away too much about your location or plans. It’s also wise to post after your trip.
Avoid sharing live locations: Wait until you’ve moved on from a location before posting about it to prevent making yourself and your home vulnerable.
Cover sensitive details: If sharing a photo of your boarding pass or travel documents, ensure personal details are obscured, or better yet, avoid sharing them at all.
Beware shoulder surfers: You might have your guard down while traveling. But stay alert to people watching your screens while you enter passwords or read your emails. A privacy filter can make your screen look black when not viewed exactly head-on.
Turn off your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use. This lessens the chance of connecting to a network or device when you didn’t intend to.
Take caution with QR codes. There are malicious QR codes out there that could take you to a phishing site or worse.

Bonus: Enable “find my device”: Turning on location tracking for your device can help if it gets lost or stolen.

What’s your biggest holiday gripe? Let us know in the comments below.

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A recommended professional driver-guide in Moscow, Russia

Moscow is the capital of a multiethnic state, a city with century-long and very complicated history where many styles and trends have been mixed. The old city of Moscow is extremely complex to understand on a short-term visit for a tourist and requires thorough research and constant practice from a guide. Life in Moscow is vibrant and diverse with about seven million foreign visitors from all over the world coming to taste it every year.

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

In view of this tourists who travel to Moscow might make use of a professional with a combination of certain qualities and qualifications, e.g. a guide and a driver.

Questions are welcome!

Andrei Burdenkov - your personal guide in Belarus

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Holiday Drink: Festive Moscow Mule

Over the weekend, Husband and I hosted our annual friends holiday party! Here is the outfit post for the green dress I wore at the party. While we had the party catered this year, I did make this easy holiday cocktail below.

1. Two shots of gin (or vodka) 2. Splash of cranberry juice 3. Some ginger beer 4. A couple spoonfuls of simple syrup 5. Top with rosemary sprig, speared cranberries, and orange wedge * Optional but awesome copper mug here

You may also enjoy:

My birthday at takai by kashiba, 23 comments.

Yum! Happy holidays Carolyn xx

This looks delicious! Can't wait to try it!

Dannon // Like The Yogurt (www.liketheyogurt.com)

Happy holidays ! That picture of you both is so cute!

Liz @ ShoppingMyCloset.com

Oh fun, I like the addition of cranberry juice to any drink so this sounds good to me 😉

Kristina does the Internets

that's cool!

mfashionfreak♥blog

aawww you and your hub are so cute <3

http://www.myseoulinbkk.com

Love the copper mug!! Have a great day:)

http://www.charltonlee.com

It looks so delicious, thx for sharing. Wonderful photos. Lovely blog here btw! Would you like to follow each other on GFC? Please let me know on my blog so I can follow back. Thank you. xox Lenya FashionDreams&Lifestyle

That looks so good! I think the copper mug is NOT optional though lol 🙂

COOCOO FOR COCO

Sounds relish and you two are adorable! Happy holidays, Carolyn!

Heidi D. http://www.wishesandreality.com

I love Moscow mules, and mostly the mugs they come in 😉

http://www.bisousnatasha.com

Adorable photo!

Mel http://girlandthepolkadot.blogspot.com/

Oooo I like this twist on the Moscow Mule! Thanks for sharing!

http://www.avecamber.blogspot.com http://www.bloglovin.com/avecamber

I hope you have a great week!

What a lovely couple! You are incredibly creative with your not-so-long hair too! I would love to make that cocktail for our Xmas party.

From Jing at http://www.bejingxu.com

Beautiful couple. You have lovely blog. I'm following you now It would be nice to keep in touch in the future Happy holiday, dear xoxo Liza http://www.lizacorner.blogspot.com

You are the hubs are way too cute 🙂 Happy holidays gorgeous x

Erica http://www.eggcanvas.me

It looks delicious. Wish you an amazing christmas Time.

xoxo Jessy Kleidermädchen

Mmmmm wonderful idea!!

http://tostylewithlove.com/ Daphne

Sounds like an amazing party! And that cocktail looks super yummy-and easy! Must try it myself! 😉

Love, Whitney

http://www.whitneyswonderland.com

looks good, thanks for sharing!

xx danielle // shades of danielle // bloglovin

Beautiful photo of you two! Merry Christmas! Melanie @ meandmr.com

Aww it's nice to see you both happy. Lovely couple!

Merry Christmas! 🙂

xoxo, SHAIRA http://www.missdream-girl.blogspot.com

Hope you two enjoyed a lovely Christmas!

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Baby: 8 months old, 11 year wedding anniversary, my snoo bassinet review: …, baby: 7 months old, my birthday at takai …, txt act : sweet mirage …, family photos for baby …, my push present: chanel …, instagram @carolynyuenmarino, looking for something.

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Holiday Drink: Festive Moscow Mule
Go here for the exact Holiday Moscow Mule recipe. Here's how I eyeballed it: 1. Two shots of gin (or vodka) 2. Splash of cranberry juice 3. Some ginger beer 4. A couple spoonfuls of simple syrup 5. Top with rosemary sprig, speared cranberries, and orange wedge * Optional but awesome copper mug here
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