in a one horse open sleigh. Not a great way to travel. Possibly less stressful than driving or flying during the holidays. Travel is probably the most stressful part of the holidays for me. I do well with visiting, taking care of myself, but put me in traffic with snow or heaven forbid ice falling and I need an on-call therapist and psychiatrist.
1) Accept that your going to be stressed: Work on managing your reaction to that stress. Deep breathing, prayer, meditation, relaxing music, or wonderful books on CD! These things can take you a lot further than yelling at people through your car window or the airline clerk.
2) Allow yourself more time than you think you need: everyone else is likely to think they'll be the only one's on the highway or flying out on Wednesday night. everything is going to take longer, the commute, check in, checking in luggage, etc.
3) Expect the unexpected: I have this motto, Hope for the best, plan for the worst, and be happy with what you get. It never fails me. So check the weather regularly, check traffic reports before leaving, and have a plan B.
4) If your flying consider checking your luggage: I know that sounds CRAZY! You won't have to lug it around the airport, worry about wrestling it through a crowded isle, and getting it out of the overhead bin after you land. I say pack a very small carry on with just the essentials, clean undies, toothbrush, toothpaste, your medications, and your cell phone/organizer.
5) Treat yourself: take a new book, CD, or go out for a great breakfast before leaving.
6) If your traveling with kids: Their stress will quickly become your stress. Pack a "fun" bag with toys and remember snacks for those low blood sugar moments. Plan extra extra time with kids. If your traveling by car with wee ones travel around nap times so driving is less frustrating for them. I know we always set our departure via car for our daughter's nap times.
7) Plan for next year: If this year was unbearable invite your family and friends to visit you next year. You may suggest meeting in the middle. If this year's trip turns out to be beyond awful consider staying home next year. My husband and I decided even before we became parents that we would be willing to travel for Thanksgiving but Christmas was to be spent at home with family and friends who are close by. Traveling for both holidays is too much for us, especially considering the Midwest could get nasty weather the later in the season you get.
What do you need to make traveling this season easier for you?
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