Holiday Travel Tips to Keep You Comfortable, and ON Your Feet
Are you heading to Grandma’s for Thanksgiving, spending Christmas at Disney World, or skiing in Colorado for New Year’s?
Holiday travel can be exciting—but it can also be expensive, stressful, and tough on your feet. With a little planning, you can make your trip smoother and more comfortable.
Before You Leave
1. Plan for Delays
Holiday travel means crowds. Expect traffic, full parking lots, and longer wait times.
2. Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time:
- 2 hours before domestic flights
- 3 hours before international flights
Long lines at check-in and security are common this time of year.
3. Know the Rules
Check your airline’s baggage policies ahead of time:
- Weight limits
- Fees
- Oversized items (like skis or snowboards)
Also, review TSA guidelines for liquids and carry-ons. And be kind to the TSA agents. They are helping to keep you safe, an especially hard job this time of year with the extra passenger loads.
4. Pack Smart
Travel light whenever possible. Lighter bags are easier to manage—especially if you’re navigating crowded airports.
5. Carry Essentials
Keep important items in your carry-on:
- Medications
- A change of clothes
- Travel documents
This can save you if your flight is delayed or your luggage is lost.
6. Don’t Wrap Gifts
If security needs to inspect your bags, wrapped gifts may be opened. It is best to ship your gifts to your destination if possible.
7. Label Your Luggage
Use tags on both the outside and inside of your bags in case the outer tag is lost.
8. Make Copies of Important Documents
Keep copies of travel documents in a separate place. During the holidays, replacing lost items can take longer than usual.
9. Bring Entertainment and Snacks
Delays happen, especially with kids.
Pack:
- Books or magazines
- Devices or games
- Nonperishable snacks
10. Charge Your Phone
A fully charged phone is essential for boarding passes, updates, and communication. A portable charging devise if very handy during travel.
Keep Your Feet Comfortable While Traveling
11. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Choose shoes that are:
- Easy to remove at security
- Comfortable and supportive enough for walking long distances
And don’t forget socks, walking barefoot through security exposes your feet to fungi and germs.
12. Move and Stretch Often
Sitting for long periods can reduce circulation.
- Stand or walk for a few minutes every 45–60 minutes
- Stretch your feet and legs regularly, if possible
If you’re pregnant, have circulation issues, or are at higher risk for swelling, consider wearing compression socks during flights.
13. Consider Extra Support
If you deal with foot pain—such as bunions or plantar fasciitis—additional support can make a big difference while traveling.
Custom orthotics, like the ezWalker® Performance custom orthotics, provide support tailored to each foot. This helps improve alignment and reduce strain during long days of walking in airports or at your destination.
Because they are ultra-thin and ¾-length, ezWalker® custom orthotics fit easily into most types of footwear, making them a practical option for travel.
Keep Things in Perspective
14. Stay Calm
Travel delays and inconveniences happen. Staying patient can make the experience much easier—for you and everyone around you.
Enjoy the Journey
With a little preparation, holiday travel doesn’t have to wear you out.
Plan ahead, stay comfortable, and take care of your feet—so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Because when your feet feel good, you feel good. Have FUN!
