Wishing You Safe and Healthy Holiday Travels
December 1, 2025
Traveling over the holidays is an opportunity to relax and reconnect with loved ones. But traveling during peak times can also be stressful. The crowds alone can cause some anxiety and concern. Last year, more than 132 million Americans travelled for the Thanksgiving weekend. By planning ahead, you can stay safe and healthy.
A survey of Motel 6 and Studio 6 found that 51 percent of holiday travelers plan to drive, compared to 13 percent who will travel by plane. It can be both easier and more affordable to drive, but according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, traveling by car during the holidays has the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation.
Traveling by Car
By taking simple precautions, drivers can keep their passengers safe. “Number one: budget in extra time,” says Vicky Nguyen, a Consumer Investigative Correspondent for the Today Show. “Even just leaving 15 minutes earlier than normal can take some of the stress out of driving in general.”
Prepare in advance by doing the following:
- Complete any necessary automotive maintenance to ensure your car is ready for the road.
- Make sure you have a full tank of gas (or a full charge for an electric vehicle) the day before you leave.
- Pack the night before and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep.
- Pack water, snacks, and medicines for every passenger, including kids and pets.
- Get comfortable by adjusting your seat and preparing your navigation system before you get going.
“It also can’t hurt to map out your route and identify rest stops, gas stations, and food options,” says Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. In the case of traffic or bad weather, build in extra time or reschedule your departure. Locate lodging along your route ahead of your trip, in case you need to stop for a night.
Your emergency essentials should include a portable cell phone charger, a first-aid kit, blankets for cold temperatures, a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, and spare tires.
Follow basic driving safety guidelines, including buckling up, obeying the speed limit and other road laws, giving your full attention to the road, especially in construction zones, and avoiding distractions, such as cell phone use.
Plan to take breaks, about every two hours or 100 miles, to avoid getting sleepy on the road. Short walks and stretches during breaks can also help prevent and alleviate pain associated with prolonged sitting.
If you’re driving, keep gifts and other valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. At rest stops and in airports, stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings close.
Traveling by Plane
If you’re flying, plan on getting to the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time. “We ask travelers to pack their patience, especially during peak travel days,” says Ha Nguyen McNeill, a TSA administrator.
Book an early flight. Flights departing after 9 a.m. are twice as likely to be delayed than those scheduled between 5-8 a.m.
Airlines are also reminding passengers to bring their Real ID, which is required for flying as of early May, and to download an airline’s app to track flight updates and receive alerts.
To avoid getting sick while flying, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated for at least a few days before traveling. Pack simple, healthy snacks, such as nuts or dried fruit, and a refillable water bottle to bring with you. Keep any necessary medicine in a carry-on so that you can access it easily.
During your flight:
- Handle your own belongings as much as possible.
- Wash your hands whenever possible with soap and water, and carry hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes with you.
- Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, use a tissue.
- If you’re sick, consider postponing your trip until you recover.
No one wants to spend their vacation worrying about whether or not their house is safe. By taking basic precautions, homeowners can protect their properties from becoming easy targets of theft.
“A simple step is to lock everything. Ensure all doors, windows, and entry points are locked, including garage doors and sliding glass doors,” says Kimani George of the University of Alabama Police Department. “Secure exterior doors with sturdy deadbolt locks, and leave blinds or curtains in their usual positions. Completely closed curtains can make it obvious you’re away.”
Other steps to protect your home include the following:
- Use timers on indoor and outdoor lights to mimic a routine.
- Install visible cameras on the exterior of the home.
- Ask them to collect mail or packages (or suspend deliveries).
- Arrange for lawn maintenance to avoid the look of a vacant home
- Do not share travel plans on social media.
Announcing holiday plans or posting vacation pictures on social media puts you at a security risk. “By posting pictures of your trip on social media sites, you are alerting the public that your home is currently vacant,” says George. “It is a safer option to wait until you return home before sharing the memories of your travels.”
Holiday travel can be stressful, but being prepared can help you enjoy the time away with loved ones while staying safe and healthy. With Insureyouknow.org, you can keep all of your travel documents and personal identification in one place for easy planning and smooth travels.