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Taking a Flight or Road Trip This Holiday Season? Use This Checklist and Travel Smarter
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 12:59 GMT by CNET- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Holiday Travel Made Easy: A Comprehensive Checklist for Flights and Road Trips
The holiday season is a busy time for travelers, and a well‑planned trip can turn the bustle into a smooth, enjoyable experience. CNET’s detailed guide breaks down the essentials for both flying and driving, providing a practical checklist that covers everything from documents and booking to packing and safety. Below is a thorough summary of the key points, organized to help you prepare for any holiday adventure.
1. Decide Your Mode of Travel
Flights
- Book Early: Airfares often rise as the holiday approaches, especially for peak travel days such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
- Compare Airports: Look at nearby airports to find the best combination of cost, flight availability, and convenience.
- Check Airline Policies: Pay close attention to baggage limits, seat selection, and refund options.
Road Trips
- Plan Your Route: Use mapping tools to choose scenic detours, rest stops, and lodging along the way.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Get a comprehensive check‑up—tires, brakes, oil, and fluid levels—to prevent breakdowns.
- Emergency Kit: Pack a first‑aid kit, spare tire, jumper cables, and tools.
2. Documentation and Essentials
| Item | Flying | Road Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Passport / ID | Required for domestic and international flights. | Driver’s license or ID card is necessary. |
| Flight Tickets / Boarding Pass | Print or mobile pass; keep a backup copy. | Keep the trip itinerary and insurance info in a safe spot. |
| Insurance | Verify travel and health coverage; add a policy for flight delays. | Ensure auto insurance covers out‑of‑state travel. |
| COVID‑19 Documentation | Check local entry rules; carry proof of vaccination or negative test if required. | Keep any relevant health documents handy. |
3. Packing Smart
Luggage
- Carry‑On Strategy: Aim for a carry‑on that contains essentials and a change of clothes; this reduces the risk of lost luggage.
- Check Size Limits: Most airlines enforce strict size limits; smaller bags avoid extra fees.
Personal Items
- Weather‑Appropriate Gear: Layered clothing, rain gear, and holiday‑specific items like ornaments or gifts.
- Tech Essentials: Chargers, adapters, portable power banks, and any necessary travel gadgets.
Snacks and Entertainment
- Flight: Pack snacks, water bottles (empty until past security), and a small entertainment package.
- Road: Fill a cooler with drinks, non‑perishable snacks, and a travel playlist or audiobooks.
4. Security and Safety Tips
Airports
- Arrive Early: Domestic flights require arrival at least 90 minutes before departure; international flights need 2 hours.
- Bag Screening: Pack liquids in 3.4‑oz containers, all in a single quart‑size bag; keep electronics in easy‑to‑access pockets.
On the Road
- Rest Breaks: Take a 15‑minute break every two hours to stretch and refresh.
- Seat Belt Use: A simple reminder that seat belts significantly reduce injury risks.
Health
- Hydration: Keep water nearby on flights and during long drives.
- Hand Hygiene: Carry hand sanitizer for airports and rest stops.
5. Budgeting and Cost‑Saving Tricks
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Early Booking | Lock in lower prices; many airlines offer “Best Price Guarantee” policies. |
| Price Alerts | Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to monitor fare drops. |
| Rewards Points | Combine loyalty programs with credit card points for free flights or upgrades. |
| Flexible Dates | Flying on non‑peak days (e.g., Wednesday instead of Sunday) can shave costs. |
| Pack Your Own Food | Avoid pricey airport and in‑flight meals; pack a meal for the flight or a snack for the road trip. |
6. Technology to Keep You Connected
- Offline Maps: Download map data for the regions you’ll visit to avoid roaming charges.
- Travel Apps: Use itinerary managers like TripIt, flight tracking apps, and car‑sharing platforms if needed.
- Entertainment Apps: Pre‑download movies, books, and music to ensure you’re not waiting for Wi‑Fi.
7. Managing Travel Disruptions
Flight Delays and Cancellations
- Know Your Rights: Most airlines have specific policies for rebooking or refunds.
- Alternative Transport: When flights are canceled, consider bus, train, or car rental options.
Road Accidents or Vehicle Issues
- Roadside Assistance: Enroll in a service such as AAA or a similar provider.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of local emergency services and a roadside assistance number.
8. Last‑Minute Checklist
- Confirm flight status 24 hours before departure.
- Verify vehicle registration and insurance documents.
- Check the weather forecast for both departure and arrival locations.
- Ensure all electronics are fully charged and backup power sources are available.
- Pack a small bag with travel essentials (documents, wallet, phone, charger, medications) that can be placed in an overhead bin or with you on the road.
9. Conclusion
Whether you’re soaring across the country or cruising on the highway, a solid preparation plan transforms a potentially stressful holiday trip into a memorable adventure. By selecting the right travel method, managing documentation, packing efficiently, staying safe, and watching costs, you’ll be ready to enjoy the season without hassle. Follow the checklist from CNET and set yourself up for a smooth, enjoyable journey—whether you’re headed to a snowy winter wonderland or a sun‑kissed coastal escape.
Read the Full CNET Article at:
[ https://www.cnet.com/home/taking-a-flight-or-road-trip-this-holiday-season-use-this-checklist-and-travel-smarter/ ]
