Ahead of the busy holiday travel season, travel advisors share tips to help navigate busy airports and hotels. Plus, a new poll reveals the busiest travel days during the 2024 holiday season.

The most wonderful time of year can also be the busiest and most stressful, especially if you plan to travel for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Whether you’re traveling internationally to European Christmas markets or flying within the United States to visit with family or friends, the following holiday travel tips from travel agents can help make your trips go smoothly.

Ahead, a look at the busiest days to travel during the holiday 2024 season, plus travel agents share their favorite, lesser-known holiday travel tips to help alleviate some of the stress that comes with flying during those hectic stretches in November and December.

What Are The Busiest Holiday Travel Days in 2024?

If the busy summer travel season was any indicator, airports could be braced for a banner year this holiday season—the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says summer 2024 was the busiest on record.

The busiest date to travel during the 2024 holiday season will be Dec. 23, according to a new survey conducted by Talker Research on behalf of IHG Hotels & Resorts. New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) will be the most common travel day on the trip home, according to the survey that polled 2,000 Americans who are planning holiday travel.

Thanksgiving 2024 falls on Thursday, Nov. 28. The day before Thanksgiving (Nov. 27) as well as Nov. 30 are the most popular 2024 travel days surrounding Turkey Day, according to the Talker Research poll.

Top Holiday Travel Tips For 2024, According To Travel Experts

You probably know some of the golden rules of traveling during the holiday: Arrive at the airport with plenty of extra time to get through security and enroll in TSA PreCheck to help you get through security more quickly.

Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. But some airports get extra busy, especially during the holidays, and recommend shifting to two hours before your boarding time for a domestic flight and three hours before boarding for an international flight.

Here’s some lesser-known travel tips and tricks that will help holiday travel go smoothly, according to travel agents and experts.

1. Pre-Book Airport Lounges

Whether it’s a long layover or delayed flight, an airport lounge can be your sanctuary from holiday crowds but they often command waits during peak travel times, points out Athena Livadas, founder of Páme Travel. When airports are busy, and delays are rolling in, the lounges fill up quickly, prompting long lines to get in and waitlists that may extend past your boarding time.

However, some lounges allow you to make reservations a day in advance, Livadas says. If you have Priority Pass with your travel credit card, download the app ahead of time and check to see if your airport’s lounge takes reservations, and snagging one if so.

2. Reserve A Spot In The Security Line

A growing number of airports now have programs that allow you to reserve a spot ahead of time in security lines. This is a separate program from PreCheck and borrows the fastpass idea from the amusement park world, allowing travelers to book their time slot in the security line. The program rules vary by airport, so check out the details of which security line the reserve program is offered in and how far in advance you can book your security slot.

The following U.S. airports have options for reserving spots in TSA security lines in advance:

• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York (JFK)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
• New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

3. Use Digital Hotel Keys For Faster Check-In

Many hotel chain programs, like Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy, offer digital key options through their apps, allowing you to skip the front desk and head straight to your room, says Livadas. This faster check-in is convenient for late arrivals or for avoiding busy lobbies during peak holiday times.

4. Download Mobile Passport Control

Global Entry can save you time in busy customs lines and come in handy if you have a tight connection. But if you don’t already have Global Entry, and can’t get in for an interview before your holiday travel, you’ve got another option.

Download Mobile Passport Control (MPC), a free app accepted at many U.S. airports for expedited customs processing. It’s ideal for last-minute travelers, as there’s no need for a pre-approval interview, Livadas says.

5. Check In On Rental Car Prices

Reserve your rental car as soon as you decide on flights or an itinerary, recommends Ben Armstrong, CEO of Famvia Travel. But check the price of the same rental the week of your trip to see if you can get a better deal by canceling and rebooking.

“Rental car agencies use dynamic pricing and any sudden cancellations by others may help you get a better price on a new reservation,” Armstrong says.

6. Take The First Flight Of The Day Out

Yes, you’ll have to set your alarm extra early (or maybe even stay up late), but opting for the first flight of the day, especially during the busy holiday travel season, has its perks.

Morning flights are less likely to face delays or cancellations, says Carolyn Weppler, senior vice president with Goway, a travel company that creates personalized itineraries.

If your early-morning departure does hit a snag, you’ll have a shot to get on one of the flights scheduled for later in the day. However, Weppler also recommends booking a “buffer day” to help make sure you arrive to your destination in time for any important holiday celebrations.

7. Don’t Wrap Your Gifts Ahead Of Time

Travel experts are fans of carrying on bags, especially during the busy holiday travel season. That way, you don’t have to wait at baggage claim or worry about your bags getting lost.

If you’re planning to carry-on, though, don’t pack wrapped gifts, Weppler suggests. While wrapped gifts are allowed through TSA, an agent may unwrap those presents if they trigger the need for additional screening. It’s less likely that gifts in checked bags will be unwrapped, but it’s still a possibility.

8. Ask For Hotel Room Decorations

Many hotels go all out during the holiday season. If you’re traveling with kids, Weppler recommends connecting with the hotel’s concierge ahead of your travels to help make the holidays more memorable by arranging for gifts to be delivered by Santa, having an in-room menorah set up or displaying a Christmas tree. These types of requests can be met depending on the hotel and availability, she says.

9. Book Your Rideshare In Advance

Consider reserving your ride share in advance, especially if traveling during a holiday like Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, Armstrong recommends. That way, if a driver accepts the reserved ride and cancels or falls through, you will have priority on getting a car to you. There could be less people out driving on the holidays, so this may help you lock in a better price in advance.

10. Make Sure Your Passport Meets Requirements

You probably already checked to make sure that your passport isn’t expired. But some countries have additional rules, like requiring two consecutive pages to be empty, says Jonathan Alder, a luxury travel advisor and founder of Jonathan’s Travels. Also, make sure that your expiration date is more than six months out from your return as that’s a requirement for many countries. You can check with the U.S. State Department to see which countries have the six-month passport rule.

For those planning to travel over the festive period this year, you may or may not be worried about catching something while flying. Travelling often exposes us to a mix of health challenges, from jet lag and bloating to bacteria-laden surfaces.

Is it true that air quality on planes is poor? Will you be susceptible to catching illnesses in-flight? Experts and flight attendants agree that maintaining good health while travelling comes down to practical, evidence-based strategies. Here’s how you can safeguard your health while travelling.

Air quality on planes

One of the most common misconceptions is that recirculated air on planes is a breeding ground for viruses. According to Dr. April Wilson of Loma Linda University Health, this is largely false. “The air quality inside airplanes is generally quite good due to advanced filtration systems,” she explains. Modern aircraft use HEPA filters that remove over 99% of airborne particles, including viruses, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

However, the real health risks often come from frequently touched surfaces such as tray tables, seatbelt buckles, and armrests. These can harbour germs for hours, if not days. Dr. Wilson advises passengers to carry disinfectant wipes to clean personal spaces before settling in, emphasising that “taking a few minutes to sanitise the immediate surroundings can significantly reduce the risk of contracting infections.”

Essential hygiene habits

Hand hygiene remains crucial. Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser after touching communal surfaces and try to avoid touching your face. Dr. Wilson also suggests using knuckles or elbows rather than fingertips when interacting with shared spaces like light switches or lift buttons.

Stay hydrated and eat healthy

Staying hydrated is vital for your immune system, especially during flights. The Aerospace Medical Association recommends drinking 237 mls of water every hour you’re in the air. Try to avoid the tempting salty snacks, caffeine and alcohol, which can cause bloating and dehydration. Consultant dietician Ro Huntriss suggests packing nutrient-dense snacks like nuts or fresh fruits to maintain stable energy levels and avoid energy crashes. However, nuts can be a problem if you’re on a flight with someone who has a nut allergy.

Prioritise sleep to combat jet lag

Flight attendants swear by the importance of sleep to counteract fatigue. If you’re travelling with young children, then this is of course easier said than done!

Whether it’s a trusty neck pillow, a silk eye mask, or meditation apps, find what works for you. Natural sleep aids like melatonin can help, but avoid mixing these with alcohol.

To beat jet lag, some flight attendants recommend sticking to your home time zone for short trips. For longer stays, adjust gradually by eating when hungry and sleeping when tired. If you’re landing with immediate plans, avoid sitting down to prevent unintentional naps.

You can also try grounding – this is standing barefoot on grass or natural earth when you get to your destination. A report in The Times noted: ‘The theory is the practise draws energy needed to help reset your inner body clock, soaking up the ground’s negative charge to leave you feeling more refreshed.’ It’s worth a try!

Keep moving in-flight

Long hours of sitting can take a toll on your body. Flight attendants suggest walking around the cabin and stretching, when safe, to promote better blood flow. Some airlines, like Qantas, even offer “Wellbeing Zones” on long-haul flights. For shorter journeys, try simple seat exercises, like rotating your ankles or stretching your arms.

Boost your immune system

Frequent travellers often rely on immune-boosting vitamins. A healthy diet rich in vitamin C, zinc, and selenium can help keep your defences strong. Consider supplementing with vitamin D, especially if you’re travelling to a destination with limited sunlight exposure.

Avoid stress and act responsibly

Travelling can’t be completely risk-free, but taking proactive measures can make a significant difference. As Dr. Wilson says, “It’s not just about protecting ourselves – but about being responsible travellers and safeguarding the well-being of those around us.”

Whether you’re hopping between EU cities or heading further afield, a little preparation goes a long way.

To celebrate the slew of one-of-a-kind sights on ‘Top of the World’, we’ve put together an album of our favorite scenes from the mile-a-minute city of Tokyo, Japan. Be sure to hit the ground running—this metropolis doesn’t stop.

Shinjuku Skyscrapers

Cinéphiles (and fans of five-star luxury) know the towers to the left of this aerial shot well: They house the Park Hyatt Tokyo, where Sofia Coppola and her crew filmed Lost in Translation on location in 2003.

Rainbow Bridge

Since 1993, the Rainbow Bridge—which owes its name to the vivid lamps that collect solar energy during the day and illuminate it after sunset—has connected Shibaura Pier with the Odaiba waterfront area in Minato. The bridge isn’t multicolored every night, but it’s bathed in festive hues for the holiday season every year, and for special occasions.

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple is also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple: As legend has it, in the 7th century, two fishermen found a golden statue of Kannon (or Guanyin), the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and the temple was constructed for her. According to The Japan Times, Sensoji receives more than 30 million visitors a year.

Kabukicho

Kabukicho (in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood) is the city’s largest red-light district, though most of the entertainment to be found there isn’t quite so X-rated. Host and hostess clubs rub shoulders with everything from love hotels to bars and pachinko parlors. It’s a marvelous place to go people-watching, but be on the lookout for unexpected costs: At a host and hostess club, a few cocktails can ring in at over 10,000 yen (about $90).

Flood-Control Silos

Tokyo sits squarely in the middle of a floodplain and 30 percent of its population lives below sea level, which means that summer monsoons (which can dump four inches of water on the city per hour) can cause catastrophic damage. The city’s elaborate flood control system—including five futuristic silos like this one, full of 60-foot-high concrete pillars—is so efficient that it can clear enough water to drain an Olympic swimming pool in 12 seconds.

Tsukiji Market

Located in central Tokyo between the Sumida River and the Ginza district, Tsukiji Market is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. It opens at 3:00 most mornings and between 5:20 and about 10:00, licensed bidders from around the world compete to purchase tons of fish. Much of the auction process is closed to tourists, but they can view the action from designated areas between 5:00 and 6:15 (and shake off their jet lag with a sushi breakfast in the market’s retail space).

Capsule Hotel

Tokyo’s Nine Hours is a capsule hotel, where floors of podlike, streamlined rooms (which have little more than a bed, shelves, outlets and sometimes a television) provide travelers with the bare necessities and offer communal bathing areas and lockers. While they wouldn’t suit claustrophobic travelers, capsule hotels are exceedingly budget friendly: A bed and a shower can be yours for about $30.

Shibuya Crossing

At peak times of day, more than 1,000 people are said to stream along the crosswalks each time the light changes at Japan’s busiest intersection. Connoisseurs say that the hypnotic view is best on Friday and Saturday nights and that the Starbucks on the second floor of the Q-front building is a particularly good vantage point (if you’re lucky enough to get a seat there).

Robot Restaurant

Since opening its doors in the summer of 2012, Robot Restaurant—a cabaret-style show featuring scantily clad dancers, massive robots, raucous pop music and lasers—has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo. Each 90-minute performance culminates in a battle between two robot armies—and an opportunity for guests to pose for pictures with the stars of the show.

Tokyo Tower

At 332.9 meters in height, Tokyo Tower is the second-tallest structure in Japan. When its 90-meter antenna was bolted into place at the conclusion of its construction in 1958, it was the tallest freestanding tower in the world—since the Eiffel Tower in Paris was 13 meters shorter.

Sam Shank, cofounder of HotelTonight, guides you through the most common pitfalls.

When it comes to staying in a hotel, there are some definitive dos and don’ts to follow. Don’t walk around the hallways barefoot. Don’t steal the towels or bathrobes. Do put all your trash in the bin before you leave. Do tip for good service. These unofficial rules will make your stay more enjoyable — for you and the staff — but a misstep at check-in or checkout can have a major impact on your overall experience.

To ensure everything runs smoothly from arrival to departure, we asked Sam Shank, cofounder of the booking app HotelTonight, how to check in to and out of a hotel without falling prey to these common mistakes.

Not Asking About Resort Fees

The last thing you want on vacation is to fall victim to hidden fees. Sometimes built-in additional costs are inevitable — “resort fees are unfortunately becoming more common,” says Shank — but at least knowing about them ahead of time allows you to prepare and budget accordingly. Even when they seem set in stone, he always asks if they’re optional. “Sometimes,” he says, “I am successful.”

Not Requesting an Early Check-in or Late Checkout

When booking your hotel, remember that many properties are making moves to nix the typical check-in and checkout rules. Take The Hoxton for example. The hip chain with hotels around the world from Williamsburg to Rome has a Flexy Time policy that allows you, the guest, to choose when you check in and out. So, don’t be afraid to ask about arriving early or leaving late. Shank says it’s best to be flexible about your room type, as that may increase the chances of the hotel being able to accommodate your request. “I have found that early check-in and late checkout is as easy as asking nicely about it at the front desk,” he says. “Be willing to trade a particular room type for early access.”

Not Asking for a Specific Room If You’re a Light Sleeper

Always be aware of your sleeping preferences when traveling — this is, after all, your time to recuperate and relax. If your sleeping habits dictate the type of room you’ll be happiest in, speak up. “I’m a light sleeper, so I always ask for a room far from the elevator, on a high floor, and facing the least busy street or a courtyard,” says Shank.

Forgetting to Do a Final Sweep of Your Room

Do you ever stop before leaving your house and whisper to yourself, “wallet, phone, keys?” If you don’t, now might be a good time to start. Go through a mental checklist and do a walk-through of your hotel room before leaving. “I can’t count all of the device chargers I’ve left in hotel rooms,” Shank says. “Now, I make sure to look at every outlet during my final sweep of the room.”

Not Providing Your Contact Information at Check-in

Shank makes an interesting case for leaving his information with the front desk as soon as he arrives at a hotel. “During check-in, I leave my email address and ask for my folio to be sent to me after checkout,” he says. “This way, I can skip checkout and walk out of the hotel, knowing I’ll have a chance to review any charges later on my own schedule.” This isn’t acceptable at every hotel, so read up on the checkout policies before dashing out the door.

Not Leaving a Tip for the Housekeeping Staff Before Checkout

In the U.S., it’s customary to tip servers, bartenders, hairstylists, and cab drivers. Leaving a gratuity for the housekeeping staff at a hotel is also a good travel habit. If you’ve forgotten to tip housekeeping daily during your stay, the best thing to do is leave a tip in the room before you check out. “I always make sure to leave a tip for the cleaning staff — they do as much as anyone to make sure I had a great stay,” says Shank. The American Hotel and Lodging Association suggests a tip amount between $1 and $5 a day.

Waiting in Line to Check Out If You’re Crunched for Time

Hotels today don’t always require you to stand in line at the front desk to check out. You usually just have to make sure you vacate the room on time, whether that’s at the designated checkout time or a previously agreed upon late checkout time. Make sure you have a chance to review your bill and that the hotel has a credit card on file for any room charges. Go ahead and visit the front desk if you prefer to review your bill in person, but if you’ve followed Shank’s tip to give an email address and card upon checking in, you can typically just head out. Don’t forget to leave your keycards in the room so the hotel can reuse the plastic.

Forgetting to Look at the Itemized Bill

If you’re worried that the hotel won’t email you a bill — or that you won’t see it because your inbox is a mess — then skip the previous tip and leave yourself extra time to review your bill with the front desk before checking out.

Not Asking (Nicely) for an Upgrade

Shank is very much in the camp of asking for an upgrade if there’s an opportunity to do so politely. “On the day of arrival, the front desk will have a lot of discretion to assign rooms,” he says. “They likely will have a few nicer rooms that they have to put someone in. That someone could be you, so ask nicely.”

Overpaying for an Upgrade at Check-in

The song and dance of getting an upgrade at a hotel is not unlike trying to qualify for an upgrade on a flight. In either instance, it’s wise to put in the request as soon as you can and set a threshold for the amount you’d be willing to pay. If it comes up, Shank recommends “offering a reasonable amount for an upgrade — my rule of thumb is 10 percent of what you paid.”