Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day are among the busiest travel days of the year. If you plan to be among the traveling masses this season, keep these holiday travel safety tips handy to stay healthy and happy well into the new year.

The holidays should be about joy, family, and making memories — not stress, illness, or travel mishaps. Whether you’re hitting the road for a family visit or flying somewhere warm, a little planning goes a long way toward arriving safely and feeling your best.

1. Plan Ahead

Don’t let “winging it” become your travel strategy.

• Share your itinerary with someone who isn’t traveling with you, and let them know if your plans change.
• If you’re driving: get your vehicle checked, pack an emergency kit, start with a full tank (or full charge), and plan extra time for weather or traffic delays.
• If you’re flying, taking a train, or bus: reserve early, plan your ride to and from the airport or station, and double-check schedules for any last-minute changes.
• Avoid oversharing on social media. Save those trip posts for after you’re back home—it helps protect your privacy and property.

2. Stay Focused and Alert

Holiday travel can test anyone’s patience, but focus is key to safety.

• On the road, adjust mirrors, seats, and navigation before you move. Silence distractions and pull over to handle texts or calls.
• If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, take a break. Trading drivers or stopping to reset could prevent an accident.
• In airports or crowded stations, keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings—especially during layovers or delays.

3. Keep Moving

Hours of sitting don’t do your body any favors.

• Drivers: Build in breaks to stretch, walk, and hydrate. Young kids need movement breaks, too—ideally every two hours.
• Air travelers: For flights over four hours, stand and move around when possible to improve circulation and reduce stiffness.

4. Protect Your Health

Because no one wants to spend the holidays sick in bed.

• Eat balanced meals before and during travel, stay hydrated, and go easy on caffeine and alcohol.
• Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or granola bars to avoid fast-food fatigue.
• Use hand sanitizer or wipes after touching public surfaces and wash your hands often.
• If you’re traveling through crowded or enclosed areas, consider wearing a mask—especially if you’re feeling under the weather or around others who are.
• Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including flu and COVID-19 boosters.

5. Mind Your Mental Health

Travel can be exciting and exhausting.

• Prioritize good sleep in the days leading up to your trip.
• Build in downtime —these could even be short breaks —to breathe and recharge.
• If travel anxiety strikes (or your kids are struggling with new routines), use calming techniques like deep breathing, quiet music, or distraction activities.

6. Arrive to Enjoy — Not Recover

You’ve made it—now protect your energy so you can actually enjoy it.

• Give yourself a buffer between travel and major plans.
• Keep up with hydration, balanced meals, and rest while celebrating.
• Help kids stick to familiar routines when possible; a little structure goes a long way toward keeping everyone happy and healthy.

With a bit of foresight and self-care, your holiday travel can be as joyful as the destination. Plan smart, move often, eat well, and stay alert. Do all of this so you can focus on what matters most this season: safe travels and time well spent with the people you love. And remember, make sure you’re up to date on your routine check-ups, flu shot, and any other recommended vaccinations. Staying proactive about your health now means fewer surprises later.