The Christmas season is one of the busiest times for air travel. According to Jetcost, 71% of Spaniards plan to travel during the holidays, with 24% opting for flights. This high demand often leads to anxiety, rush, and unexpected issues that can ruin the start of the holiday break. Experts from Flightright, a leading platform in passenger rights advocacy, share suggestions to help travelers enjoy a calm and pleasant holiday season, from planning to reaching the destination.

Before the Trip: Planning is Key

Christmas demands organization. Booking flights and accommodations in advance not only allows travelers to secure better prices but also reduces the typical anxiety of this period. Before leaving home, it is essential to check the validity of passports and other necessary documents, as well as prepare a packing list to avoid common forgetfulness. Reviewing the airline’s baggage policy is crucial to preventing unexpected charges at the airport.

Preparation also covers practical daily aspects: wearing suitable clothing for the expected climate at the destination, packing a small first aid kit with essential medications, and informing family or friends of the itinerary and emergency contacts. For Christmas gifts and food, it’s advisable to wrap them simply or even bring them unwrapped to avoid damage during security checks. Fragile or electronic items should be checked in correctly according to the airline’s regulations. If transporting typical food products (such as nougat, shortbread, chocolates, sparkling wine, or champagne), it’s imperative to check the restrictions on transporting food and liquids in carry-on luggage. Also, consider carrying additional luggage for large gifts to avoid last-minute fees.

Final Preparations and Tranquility at the Airport

With everything prepared, arriving at the airport should be as serene as possible. Clear information about passenger rights in case of delays or cancellations can make a significant difference. Flightright advises being informed about these guarantees and, in the event of an unforeseen problem, to leave the claims management to experts to secure the appropriate compensation without complications. Having the necessary documentation handy facilitates a quicker resolution of any issue and avoids unpleasant surprises at the terminal.

During the Flight: Comfort, Hydration, and Rest

The key to a comfortable flight is choosing loose clothing and comfortable shoes, especially on long trips. Bringing an empty water bottle to refill after security helps maintain hydration throughout the journey. It’s also useful to have light snacks to reduce the temptation of heavy meals on board. Downloading music, books, or movies in advance avoids having to rely on the plane’s connectivity. For rest, accessories like earplugs and an eye mask can make a significant difference. To minimize jet lag, it is advisable to start adjusting to the destination’s time zone before takeoff.

After the Flight: Adjustment and Relaxation

Landing is not the end of the journey but the beginning of adjusting to the new time zone. Flightright recommends adapting as soon as possible to local time and avoiding prolonged sleeping upon arrival. Resolving any questions during check-in and organizing the stay contributes to a smoother arrival. Changing or withdrawing local currency in advance and scheduling a brief rest helps recharge energy before beginning to explore. Exploring the surroundings in the first hours after landing aids in orientation and acclimatization, always after informing family or friends that you have arrived safely.

These recommendations aim to reduce travel stress during peak seasons and allow the holiday festivities to start on the right foot. Ultimately, the goal is to leave space for what truly matters: enjoying well-deserved holidays, whether with family, friends, or on your own, while others handle potential surprises like delays or cancellations.