The allure of holiday travel brings millions to airports, highways, and international destinations annually. A 2024 Deloitte survey projected that almost half of Americans planned to travel from Thanksgiving to January that year. Nearly 19% wanted to visit family or friends, while 30% had plans to rent paid lodgings. This year will likely be no different.
Warm reunions, snowy landscapes, and festive experiences await at this time of the year. However, you can expect challenges like crowds, delays, budget overruns, and unforeseen hazards. Navigating this demanding travel window requires sound decisions and strategic planning, as the holiday rush amplifies the potential for stress and missteps.
In this article, we will share a list of mistakes you should avoid to prevent your holiday-season plans from going astray.
#1: Choosing the Wrong Destination
When making travel plans for the festive season, you must choose your destination wisely. Selecting a destination based purely on trend or social influence, rather than personal interests, accessibility, is a recipe for disappointment. For instance, some popular hotspots may be overloaded, driving up costs and diluting authentic experiences.
The US News has a list of top travel destinations Americans prefer for Christmas vacations. Prague tops the list, while Quebec City, the Maldives, Tromsø, and Leavenworth occupy the top spots. The list is based on factors such as seasonality, culture, and entertainment options, making it a good one.
When taking your pick, reflect on what truly makes a holiday memorable. Research crowd levels, accommodation availability, and cost trends for each region before booking. Also, look for alternatives to “bucket-list” cities, such as smaller towns or hidden gems where festivities are rich but the pace is more relaxed.
#2: Traveling During the Peak-Rush Days
Another mistake you must steer clear of when traveling during the holidays is to plan your trip during the peak-rush days. Demand for transport spikes on the days immediately before and after major holidays. These periods can actually be the most stressful and expensive times to travel.
The mistake is avoidable if you are ready to be somewhat flexible. For example, you should travel on off-peak days whenever possible. The middle days of the week, or early on holiday morning, often face much lighter crowds. Booking tickets several months ahead is a good idea. It can increase savings and enable you to secure more convenient travel times.
Use flexible search tools to compare prices and crowds across a range of potential departure dates. Remember to add buffer time for connections and transit. Do it by factoring in increased traveler volume and possible weather disruptions.
#3: Overlooking Safety on the Road
Road trips have gained immense popularity in the US in recent years. According to Travel + Leisure, American roads were projected to witness a record-breaking crowd during the Fourth of July weekend in 2025. The numbers are expected to be equally massive during the winter holidays.
However, safety risks abound at this time of the year due to winter conditions, long hours, and congested highways. Traffic hazards in some cities are dire, making them dangerous for pedestrians and drivers. Little Rock in Arkansas, for example, is considered the tenth deadliest city for pedestrians. The area has recorded a 119% increase in pedestrian fatalities in the last five years, as per a study cited by Arkansas Times.
A Little Rock auto accident attorney can help you seek compensation if you get into a negligent crash. However, it is best to prioritize safety on the road, whether in the city or on the highway. Plan routes ahead, accounting for alternate paths, should traffic or weather disrupt your plans. Also, allow extra travel time to accommodate delays.
Keith Law Group highlights the role of personal injury law in helping victims who suffer due to someone else’s negligence. Being aware of your rights is crucial, whether driving in your hometown or traveling during the holidays. Practicing defensive driving is a responsibility you should not overlook. Stick with speed limits, avoid distractions, take rest, and follow the rules.
#4: Packing Too Much Stuff
Heavy, overstuffed bags slow you down, clutter hotel rooms, and often lead to forgotten, misplaced, or unused items. Overpacking is one mistake you should steer clear of, even more so during the holidays when everything seems to stress you out.
A few simple steps can save you from making this blunder. Opt for carry-on-sized luggage, unless absolutely necessary to check a bag. Lay out all items before you pack, and then aim to remove half. You will see how easy it is to trim the extras you may not need. Neutral colors and versatile outfits multiply options while minimizing baggage.
Good organization is as helpful as being selective when it comes to packing your luggage. Use packing cubes and keep clothes wrinkle-free and organized. Remember to leave room for any holiday shopping or last-minute souvenirs.
#5: Not Having a Budget in Mind
According to CNBC, taking debt for traveling has become a norm in the US. In 2024, nearly 36% of Americans planning summer travel had debt in mind. That’s probably because paying later for holidays sounds easy, but it is the worst mistake you can make. Holiday travel can quickly overrun budgets with surcharges, high-season rates, and impulse purchases.
Having a budget from the outset and sticking with it can keep you debt-free after holiday trips. Try setting a daily budget for lodging, food, activities, and incidentals. Use credit cards wisely, noting transaction fees and informing your bank of your travel plans to avoid unexpected holds.
Also, avoid exchanging large sums at airports as kiosks here have the worst rates. Instead, research the best options for currency exchange or use debit cards to withdraw cash at ATMs in your destination.
FAQs
Why do people travel during the holiday season?
People travel during the holidays for diverse reasons. Some do family reunions, while others do it for a break from daily routines. Other reasons are experiencing festive traditions or simply a desire to see new places when towns and cities are dressed in their seasonal finest. For many, it’s the only extended time when work and school schedules align.
Are road trips safe during the holidays?
Road trips are generally safe with good planning and responsible driving. Holiday road traffic can elevate accident risks, especially in wintry areas. Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, monitor the weather and route, avoid fatigued or distracted driving, and take breaks often. Also, keep your phone charged and emergency supplies accessible in case you get stuck in a snowstorm.
Which are the best overseas destinations during Christmas?
Budapest, Hungary, is famed for its extravagant Christmas markets, delicious food, and nightly light shows. Rovaniemi, Finland, is the heart of Lapland and home to Santa Claus Village for a true winter wonderland experience. London, Vienna, and New York remain timeless choices for those craving grand displays and cultural events.
Holiday travel should be about joyful connections and memorable adventures, not stress or mishaps. Travelers can make the most of these trips by avoiding the most common and most costly holiday mistakes. Smart planning and flexibility will help ensure the best parts of the holiday season shine through, wherever the journey leads.