Travel Tips: How to Make Your Trip Smoother This Holiday Season
The holiday season is one of the busiest (and most stressful) times to travel—especially in and out of Los Angeles. Between packed airports, freeway traffic, unpredictable weather, and endless logistics, even the most seasoned traveler can feel overwhelmed. But with a little planning and a few smart strategies, you can make holiday travel a whole lot easier.
Here’s your guide to getting through the holiday rush with minimal hassle:
1. Plan Your Airport Strategy
Whether you're flying out of LAX, Burbank, or Long Beach, timing is everything.
Choose off-peak flights. Early morning or late-night departures usually mean shorter lines.
Consider alternate airports. Burbank is significantly calmer than LAX and often a faster experience overall.
Reserve parking in advance. Holiday parking fills up fast—book early or use ride-share if possible.
2. TSA & Security Hacks
Make the security line one less thing to stress about.
Apply for TSA PreCheck or CLEAR. Even last-minute travelers can sign up quickly.
Pack smart. Keep liquids and electronics easy to access if you’re not in a fast lane.
Wear easy-to-remove shoes. Every second counts when the line snakes around the terminal.
3. Handle LA Traffic Like a Pro
Holiday traffic doesn’t follow the usual patterns.
Avoid major freeways between 2–7 p.m.
Check apps like Waze or Google Maps before leaving. Sometimes the PCH is faster, sometimes the canyon roads are — it varies daily.
If driving long distance, leave before sunrise. You’ll beat the rush and enjoy quieter roads.
4. Stay Organized With Digital Tools
A few apps can streamline your entire trip:
TripIt for organizing itineraries
Hopper for last-minute flight price alerts
FlightAware for tracking delays
Airline apps for mobile boarding passes and rebooking options
5. Prepare Your Home Before You Go
Give yourself peace of mind while you’re away.
Empty perishables
Throw out trash
Set lights on timers
Lock all windows and gates
Let a neighbor know you’re traveling
Turn off outdoor sprinklers if rain is expected
A few minutes of prep can keep your home safe and prevent unwelcome surprises.
6. Pack Light (or Smarter)
Try to avoid checking bags if possible—but if you must:
Put valuables and essentials in your carry-on
Use AirTags or Tile trackers
Choose bright or unique luggage tags so bags stand out
7. Make Space for Joy
Travel can be stressful, but it’s also a chance to reset and reconnect.
Start a good audiobook or playlist on the drive
Bring snacks (airport food lines get long!)
Pack a portable charger
Leave early so you’re not rushed
A calm traveler is a happy traveler.
A Smooth Season Ahead
With the right planning, you can navigate the holiday rush like a pro—and actually enjoy the journey. Whether you're visiting family, heading to the mountains, or flying somewhere warm, a little preparation goes a long way.
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