Essential Holiday Air Travel Tips to Save Money and Avoid Stress

As inflation and rising costs continue to affect millions of Americans, this holiday season is shaping up to be one of the most expensive for travelers. But with a little planning and creativity, you can save money and reduce stress during your holiday journey. To help, we've put together some handy tips to navigate holiday travel efficiently, save money, and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience. From choosing the right parking option to preparing for the unexpected, these expert strategies will keep you ahead of the game this holiday season.

Smart Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Trip

1. Monitor Flight Delays and Weather Conditions

The holiday season is notorious for unpredictable weather, making delays a common issue. Keep an eye on your flight status by signing up for airline notifications and flight tracking apps. Did you know you can track flight information directly in iMessage? Simply type the airline abbreviation such as "AA" for American Airlines, followed by the flight number, like "AA100." Once you send it, the flight number will turn into a clickable link, providing you with all the relevant flight details instantly!

Travel experts suggest having a backup plan—know your airline’s rebooking policy and research alternative flights or routes ahead of time. This preparation can save hours of frustration if your plans unexpectedly change.

2. Save on Airport Parking

Airport parking can be a hidden travel expense, but off-airport parking services offer budget-friendly alternatives. Companies like On Air Parking provide affordable, secure parking options often 50-70% cheaper than on-site airport parking. With rates as low as $4 to $6 per day, travelers can book ahead to secure their spot and take advantage of free shuttles to the terminal. To save even more this holiday season, On Air Parking is offering $3 off with the code DEC$3.

3. Leverage Frequent Flyer Miles

Don’t forget to check your frequent flyer miles before booking! If you’ve been saving up frequent flyer miles all year, the holidays are a perfect time to use them. Miles can help cover flights, seat upgrades, or even baggage fees, easing some of the financial pressure of holiday travel. Check your rewards program for any special holiday promotions or last-minute opportunities to redeem points. Even if you can’t book a full flight with miles, you might be able to cover smaller expenses, like preferred seating or in-flight meals, to make your trip more comfortable.

4. Check-In Online Before Arriving at the Airport

Avoid the hassle of long check-in lines by using your airline’s mobile app to check in and secure your boarding pass. Many airlines allow you to check in 24 hours before your flight, giving you a better chance of selecting your preferred seat or upgrading if necessary. This simple step can save valuable time and streamline your airport experience.

5. Pack Snacks for the Trip

Airport food can be overpriced and limited in selection, especially during peak travel times. Here are some fun and creative snack ideas to save money and make your trip enjoyable:

• Snack Bento Box: Use a compartmentalized Tupperware to pack grapes, cheese cubes, crackers, and a few chocolate-covered almonds for a mini charcuterie experience.
• Fruit Kabobs: Thread grapes, strawberries, and melon chunks onto skewers for a colorful, mess-free snack.
• Trail Mix Jars: Pre-mix nuts, dried fruit, pretzels, and a sprinkle of M&Ms in small mason jars for a personalized treat.
• Popcorn Bags: Season popcorn with your favorite toppings, like ranch powder, cinnamon-sugar, or Parmesan, and pack it in resealable bags.
• Yogurt Parfaits to Go: Layer granola, yogurt, and fruit in small, leak-proof jars for a refreshing snack on the go.

6. Safeguard Your Luggage

Lost luggage is every traveler’s nightmare, but a little preparation can make a big difference. Place a card with your name, address, and contact number inside your luggage to help airlines return it to you faster if it’s misplaced. Better yet, take a photo of your packed bag before you check it—this visual reference can assist airline staff in identifying your bag more quickly.

If possible, stick to carry-on luggage to avoid baggage fees and reduce the risk of delays. If you must check a bag, weigh it at home to ensure it meets airline requirements. Packing cubes and compression bags can also help you fit more into a smaller space while staying organized.

7. Prepare for a Comfortable Flight

Holiday travel often means crowded flights, so bring essentials like a neck pillow, earplugs, or noise-canceling headphones. Download books, movies, or podcasts to keep yourself entertained. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated—many airports now have water refill stations past security.

8. Travel Light to Save Time and Money

Avoid checked-bag fees by packing light and sticking to carry-on luggage. If you do need to check a bag, weigh it at home to ensure it meets your airline’s weight limits and avoid last-minute charges. Here is a pro tip: packing cubes are a great way to organize your belongings and maximize space.

9. Utilize Travel Comparison Tools

Platforms like Kayak.com can help you find the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. Set price alerts to track deals and book when prices drop. Additionally, consider bundling travel services—such as flight and hotel bookings—to unlock discounts.

10. Keep Kids Entertained During Travel

Traveling with children can be challenging, but with thoughtful preparation, the journey can be smoother and even enjoyable.

Pack comfort items like cozy blankets, favorite stuffed animals, or familiar toys to help your child feel secure in unfamiliar environments.

Entertainment is key. Bring a mix of activities such as coloring books, magnetic travel games, or stickers to keep little ones engaged. For longer trips, load a tablet with their favorite movies, shows, or educational apps, and invest in kid-friendly headphones to ensure they’re entertained without disturbing others.

Snacks and essentials are a must. Pack their favorite snacks, drinks, and extra clothes within easy reach. Wet wipes are invaluable for quick cleanups, and a change of clothes for both child and parent can save the day in case of spills or accidents.

Turn airport waiting time into an adventure. Many airports have play areas, but if yours doesn’t, create your own fun with a scavenger hunt for airplanes, shops, or signs around the terminal. Small surprises like wrapped toys or special treats can also keep kids excited and occupied during long waits.

11. Arrive Early and Stay Flexible

Airports are particularly busy during the holidays, so give yourself extra time to get through security and to your gate. Arriving early reduces stress and gives you a buffer if there are unexpected delays. Staying flexible with travel dates can also help you save money, as flights are often cheaper on less popular travel days.

Why These Tips Matter

“Holiday travel is stressful enough without worrying about unexpected costs and delays,” said Joanne Liscano, CEO of On Air Parking. “By planning ahead and taking advantage of savings opportunities, travelers can focus on enjoying the season rather than worrying about the journey.”

Whether it’s redeeming frequent flyer miles, booking off-airport parking, or finding creative ways to keep kids entertained, these simple strategies can make your holiday travel smoother and more enjoyable.

For more information about affordable airport parking options, visit www.onairparking.com and use code DEC$3 to save this December!

Safe travels and Happy Holidays!

Media Contact:
Aija Christopher

aija@noson.io