Taking the stress out of winter travel story
January-February 2025
(photo courtesy Shutterstock)
courtesy of Family Features
While there’s plenty to appreciate about winter travel, including picturesque scenery and festive moments with loved ones, the season can also bring a unique set of challenges. However, you can take steps to manage potential stress as you prepare for a seasonal journey.
For example, as flight delays and cancellations seem to become more routine, travel insurance is one way vacationers can ease the burden of common travel issues that arise during crazy winter weather.
Consider these tips to reduce the stress of winter vacationing from the experts at World Nomads:
SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Some destinations are better when the weather gets blustery, but winter conditions can affect your ability to enjoy certain attractions in other locations. Planning for weather-appropriate activities ensures you can make the most of your visit, whether it’s a prime winter destination or not.
ANTICIPATE DELAYS
Unpredictable weather can hinder winter travel, so build extra time into your itinerary to accommodate any potential delays. If you’re traveling with children, have entertainment and backup plans ready to avoid adding tired, cranky kids.
INVEST IN TRAVEL INSURANCE
Prepare for the unexpected and reduce your financial risk of unforeseen events. Most plans cover winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, bobsledding and more, for added peace of mind. If something unexpected happens, your plan may reimburse emergency medical expenses, trip interruption coverage, and medical evacuation coverage in certain circumstances.
PACK WITH CARE
If you’re headed to a sunny spot, sunscreen is a given, but remember that sunscreen is essential for cold destinations too. Reflections off the snow can cause sunburn as bad as those from a day on the water. Also, be mindful that the air tends to be drier in many locations during the winter months; keeping your skin and body well moisturized can help protect and nourish you.
MAXIMIZE LUGGAGE SPACE
When traveling to colder climates, the bulkier clothing you need to stay warm and comfortable naturally takes up more space than a summer wardrobe. Fitting everything you need into your luggage may be challenging, but you can boost your chances by being extra organized. Compression bags and packing cubes can help save space, and rolling garments rather than folding them is recommended.
When luggage space is limited, prioritize function over fashion. Choose every item with purpose. That might mean forgoing an extra pair of shoes and selecting tops that can be mixed and matched with other articles of clothing for a more versatile wardrobe. Also, be conscious of packing outfits that layer easily so you can add or subtract layers to stay comfortable.