Holiday Planning Should Start Now
It’s Never Too Early to Start Planning Your Christmas and New Year’s Holiday Travel!
Hey there, holiday travelers! If you’re anything like me, the thought of juggling holiday plans, family gatherings, and last-minute travel bookings can feel overwhelming. But here’s a little secret I’ve learned over the years: starting your Christmas and New Year’s travel planning early is the best gift you can give yourself. It can make the difference between a stressful scramble and a smooth, joyful holiday getaway.
That’s why I’m excited to share some of my top tips to help you get a head start on your holiday travel plans. Plus, with Catalina Quest and our AI travel assistant, Taylor, you can craft the perfect vacation tailored just for you, whether that’s a cozy European Christmas market or a sunny beach escape for New Year’s. Let’s dive in!
Start planning now if you want to visit your ideal destination over the holidays.
1. Plan and Book Early — Your Wallet and Sanity Will Thank You
If there’s one thing I can’t stress enough, it’s this: book your flights, hotels, and car rentals at least 6 to 9 months before Christmas and New Year’s. Why? Because holiday travel is notoriously busy, and the closer you get to the holidays, the more expensive and scarce options become.
I’ve seen prices skyrocket in the weeks leading up to Christmas, especially for popular destinations like New York City, London, or tropical spots like Costa Rica. Booking early can save you money, but it also gives you peace of mind, which is priceless. You won’t be scrambling last minute, and you’ll have plenty of time to plan the fun parts of your trip.
Here’s what I recommend:
Start looking and locking in your flights and accommodations by late spring or early summer.
Use tools like Taylor to get personalized recommendations.
Don’t forget to include transportation rentals if you’re planning a road trip or need a car at your destination.
2. Choose Off-Peak Travel Days and Times — Skip the Crowds and Save
One of my favorite travel hacks during the holidays is to fly on the actual holiday or during early morning or late-night flights. It might sound a bit inconvenient, but trust me, it’s worth it. Airports are less crowded, traffic is lighter, and ticket prices often drop during these off-peak times.
For Christmas 2025, since the holiday falls on a Wednesday, consider flying out earlier in the week, like Tuesday, December 17, or Wednesday, December 18, to avoid the mad rush. Or, if you don’t mind traveling on the holiday itself, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day flights tend to be quieter and cheaper.
For New Year’s, flying out on December 28 or 30 and returning after January 4 can help you avoid the busiest travel days. Early morning flights (think before 8 AM) or red-eye departures on New Year’s Eve can also save you time and money.
Here’s my quick checklist:
Avoid the four days before Christmas (Dec 20–23) and the days right after (Dec 26–29) if you can.
Consider flying on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day for fewer crowds.
For New Year’s, try to fly on Dec 28, Dec 30, or New Year’s Eve late at night.
Early morning or late-night flights are often less expensive and less hectic.
3. Pack Smart and Light to Make Your Journey Easier
Nothing ruins holiday travel faster than lugging around heavy bags or dealing with lost luggage. Over the years, I’ve learned that packing smart and light is a game-changer. Ideally, try to fit everything into a carry-on. It saves you money on baggage fees and makes airport navigation much easier, especially when airports are packed during the holidays.
Focus on versatile clothing that you can layer, so you’re ready for chilly Christmas markets or warmer New Year’s destinations. Don’t forget travel-sized toiletries and tech essentials like a portable charger and noise-canceling headphones.
My packing tips:
Use packing cubes to stay organized and maximize space.
Pack a foldable tote bag for souvenirs or extra items on the way home.
Keep essential medications and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case your checked luggage gets delayed.
4. Consider Travel Insurance — Protect Your Holiday Investment
The holiday season is beautiful but unpredictable. Flights get delayed, weather can turn nasty, and sometimes plans change. That’s why I always recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. It’s a small cost that can save you a lot of headaches if something goes wrong.
Look for a policy that covers trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. This way, if you get sick before your trip or your flight is canceled due to weather, you won’t be left out of pocket. Catalina Quest offers tailored insurance options that fit all kinds of trips, whether you’re heading to a snowy ski resort or a sunny beach.
Remember:
Read the policy carefully to understand what’s covered.
Consider insurance, especially if you’re booking non-refundable flights or expensive accommodations.
Keep your insurance documents handy during your trip for quick access if needed.
Final Thoughts
Planning your Christmas and New Year’s travel early is smart and essential for a smooth, joyful holiday. By booking ahead, choosing off-peak travel times, packing light, and protecting your trip with insurance, you’ll avoid a lot of the common holiday headaches.
And the best part? With Catalina Quest and Taylor by your side, you get personalized help every step of the way. So why wait? Start planning your dream holiday today, and get ready to make unforgettable memories this festive season!