8 tips for a stress-free holiday travel season
Follow these expert tips to save money, earn rewards, maximize downtime, and plan a seamless stay this holiday season.
Edited by Robin Reetz | October 1, 2025 (Updated October 13, 2025)
It’s that time of year — the holiday season is here, and with it comes the excitement of traveling to be with loved ones. However, navigating crowded airports, jam-packed highways, and bustling train stations can be overwhelming. But with a bit of planning, you can save money, minimize stress, and make your holiday getaway better than ever.
Plan your holiday stay with these eight expert tips:
Book early and be flexible
Plan ahead. Kick off your holiday travel planning by booking early. You can typically lock in lower rates when you avoid last-minute plans and book flights and car rentals in advance.
Being flexible with your travel dates may also lead to significant savings. If your schedule allows, consider flying or driving on off-peak days, which are typically a few days before or after major holidays.
Pack smart
Packing light can help you avoid extra baggage fees and have a more relaxing, seamless trip. Create a checklist to ensure you don't forget any essentials and prioritize versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Choose shoes that can be worn for multiple occasions and opt for packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags to make the most of your luggage space.
Shop around
For savvy travelers, knowledge is power. Use comparison tools and apps to track prices and get an idea of what your ideal booking window should be. Set up price alerts to be notified when fares drop and consider alternate routes for even more savings.
Optimize your booking
When booking a hotel, consider the location and its proximity to your planned activities. Not only is it nice to stay in the center of all the action, but choosing a conveniently located hotel for your getaway allows you to cut costs on transportation once you have arrived. This season, celebrate in top holiday destinations New York, Chicago, and San Diego. We recommend Hilton New York Times Square, or Hampton Inn San Diego Downtown, or Hilton Chicago Suites, just off the Magnificent Mile.
Traveling with a group? Consider taking advantage of amenities like Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™. Little ones in your party? Book a stay that includes free breakfast. That way, your family can maximize downtime and quickly and easily fuel up for the day without having to leave the hotel.
Plan your route
Heading out on a road trip? Exploring the city on foot? Spending time with nearby loved ones? Planning your route in advance can save time and money. Use driving apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers to get real-time updates on traffic and avoid tolls, or to find the best walking route. With a little planning, you’ll get where you need to go while making the most out of your time away.
Snacks, snacks, and more snacks
Whether you’re flying, taking a train, or driving to your destination, snacks will help keep everyone happy during your holiday travels. Pack your favorite nourishing treats too avoid costly airport and gas station mark-ups. Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle to refill after you go through airport security.
Take advantage of loyalty programs
If you're a frequent hotel guest, joining a loyalty program like Hilton Honors can be a great way to earn rewards. You’ll earn Points on every stay to redeem for free nights, upgrades, and other exclusive benefits. As a Hilton Honors Member, you'll also enjoy travel perks such as Digital Key, room selection, and access to exclusive member rates. The holidays are prime time for special promotions and seasonal offers, making it the perfect opportunity to join Hilton Honors and start earning Points. Unlock Hilton Honors benefits today and start earning on your next stay.
Prepare for delays
The holiday travel season can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to be prepared for delays with a backup plan. Pack essentials like medications, chargers, and a change of clothes in your carry-on for flights, and keep an emergency kit with blankets, flashlights, and snacks in your car for road trips. Opting for travel insurance is also a great idea during this time of year, as is preparing your boarding pass before arriving at the airport to minimize stress. If possible, consider leaving a day early or staying a day late, so you have more flexibility in case of delays.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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