How to stay safe and healthy while traveling over the holidays

Thanksgiving through New Year's Day accounts for some of the busiest travel days of the year. About 55 million Americans were expected to travel at Thanksgiving in 2023, with another 115 million traveling during the last few weeks of the year, according to AAA. If you plan to be among the traveling masses this season, keep these holiday travel safety tips handy to stay healthy and happy into the new year.

Holiday travel safety tips

Traveling over the holidays is an opportunity to unwind, relax and spend time with loved ones. But it can also be challenging and stressful. Crowds, delays, jet lag, unfamiliar environments and disruptions to our routine and sleep schedule are all part of the game — much of which is out of our hands.

Before you head out of town, it's a good idea to plan for what you know you can expect. This can help you not only make the most of your time away but stay safe and healthy while you get there. No matter how you plan to travel this year, follow these holiday travel safety tips:

Plan ahead

Make sure someone outside your traveling party knows your plans. Keep them posted if you get delayed or run into trouble along the way. For your safety, don't ever share travel plans or details on social media.

Drivers should plan their route ahead of time, get their car inspected and pack an emergency kit before taking off. Always start a road trip with a full tank (or charge on an electric vehicle) and plan to stop and refill or recharge well before you need to, in case stations become unexpectedly scarce.

Be aware that traffic and bad weather can alter the normal mileage or range of your vehicle. If snow or icy roads are predicted, build in extra time or reschedule your drive. Locate lodging on your route ahead of your trip, should you need to stop and rest or spend the night.

If traveling by plane, bus or train, make your reservations early to secure the best prices. Plan your route or transportation to the airport or station beforehand, accounting for time, price, parking, weather and traffic. Last minute changes or unforeseen complications can increase stress and the likelihood of accidents.

Stay focused and alert

If you're driving, your most important task is getting you and your passengers to your destination safely. To avoid driving distractions, adjust your seat, mirrors, navigation system and audio settings before you hit the road. If you rent a car, familiarize yourself with its controls before driving. Consider using apps to silence your calls and texts or have someone else in the car handle your phone. If you need to use your phone at any time, pull over to a safe place.

The holidays can be an emotional time of year for many people. Take a break from driving or ask someone else to drive if you're feeling angry, stressed or overwhelmed — driving when emotions are high can be dangerous. Just as important, pull over or seek accommodations if you run into unexpected hazardous weather. Make sure kids are buckled in and pets are secure at all times.

If traveling by plane, bus or train, stay alert and near your companions while traveling through airports and stations. Make sure all non-checked belongings always stay secured or within your possession, and keep your most important documents — passports, IDs, cash, credit cards and tickets — on your person. Check travel apps and information boards for delays and other important travel notices.

Move your body

Driving long distances can cause your body aches and pains — some of which can linger if precautions aren't taken. When driving long distances, take breaks to get out of the car and stretch when you can. Short walks and stretches along the way can help prevent and alleviate pain associated with sitting for long periods of time. Children should have a break from car seats every two hours.

Although blood clots from sitting for a long time are not common, some people are more susceptible, especially when in the air more than four hours. If you are pregnant, older than 40, on hormone therapy or birth control pills, have cancer, limited mobility, a recent surgery, obesity or a history of blood clots, you should get up and move every one to two hours.

Prevent illness

Eat healthy, stay hydrated and minimize alcohol consumption at least a few days prior to traveling to keep your immune system working at its best. Pack simple healthy snacks, like nuts or fruit, water and a refillable bottle to bring on the go. Drink plenty of water and get a good night's sleep before big travel days.

If you suffer from anxiety or are prone to travel-induced or other types of stress, consider these strategies for coping and seek mental health services as needed before traveling.

Crowded and enclosed spaces such as rest stops, buses, planes and airports are common places to catch colds, viruses and more. Pack alcohol wipes to disinfect your seat, table and other surfaces, use hand sanitizer or frequently wash your hands and wear an N95 mask or equivalent around people who may be coughing or sneezing. Keep medicine and other necessities in a carry-on or easily accessible bag, so you can get to them as needed.

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations, especially for flu and COVID-19, is also a great way to prevent illness when traveling.

Holiday travel can be stressful, but being prepared can help you cope and enjoy the time away, while staying safe and healthy.