It may be the most wonderful time of the year -- but it can be the least wonderful time at busy airports and on overcrowded freeways.
Beginning the weekend before Christmas -- Dec. 19 this year -- traveling can get crazy, but here's your checklist for not losing your holiday spirit before you even make it home for the holidays.
Check your travel lists -- twice
What time does your flight leave? From what airport? From what terminal? What terminal will you arrive at? What about your hotel? What's the number to call if you think you'll be late to check in?
A list can also help with packing: Next time you're actually on a trip, make a list of everything you brought (minus what you didn't use) and everything you forgot. Keep it in your suitcase for the next time you're packing.
Keep any trip paperwork -- whether boarding passes, passports, hotel confirmations or event tickets -- in one place where it's secure but easy to access quickly.
Prepare for the worst
Download the app for your airline to your phone (if there is one), and if there isn't check out FlightAware and save the customer service number for your airline in your contacts.
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, contact your airline by phone and social media while you wait in line at the airport -- you might get a response faster than you can make it to the front of the line.
And when it comes to driving,
Don't wrap presents ahead of time if you're flying
TSA agents have little in common with Santa's elves. Case in point: They're terrible at re-wrapping presents.
Well, at least the TSA made an attempt to re-wrap the present they opened (it was halapeno mustard) #holidaytravel pic.twitter.com/X6sjibpv9e— Jordan Wirfs-Brock (@jordanwb) December 26, 2014
Save them the trouble (and yourself the frustration) by not wrapping presents until after you arrive at your destination. If a roll of wrapping paper won't fit in your suitcase, get some flat sheets instead.
Bring backup power
Get fully charged before heading to the airport, and bring an extra (fully charged) battery pack for the ultimate device peace of mind.
And check ahead of time if your flight will have power outlets at the seats, in-flight Wi-Fi and other amenities on Routehappy.
And backup snacks
It's not just your devices that need recharging: Bring an empty water bottle and snacks, both for delays and to avoid paying extra fees for airline food.
Pack some noise-canceling headphones
It's a scientifically proven fact that there are more crying children and arguing couples on airplanes and in airports around the holidays.
Best purchase this week, noise canceling @AKGaudio N60nc headphones. For a comfortable quiet flight. pic.twitter.com/pDv5SIFsfG— Ronald de Koff (@ronalddekoff) December 13, 2015
OK, maybe not. But even if you have to buy new noise-canceling headphones, they're sure to be useful year round, and especially for the holidays. And they're not just great for travel, either. Obnoxious family member getting on your nerves? Put on the 'phones. What's a little rudeness in the interest of avoiding a family brawl?
Think 10 minutes ahead (or more)
If you're in a security line for TSA, you might as well start getting ready, whether that's taking your belt off or emptying your pockets and putting items inside your bag (better than in the tray).
And even better when it comes to air travel or long car rides: Dress for the occasion. Don't wear elaborate lace up boots if you're just going to have to take them off in security, and bring a hoodie or shawl in case of cold cars or cold airplane cabins.
Get fresh
But not with TSA agents.
Bring cleansing cloths, hand lotion, a toothbrush and toothpaste to feel a little bit cleaner, a little bit better about long flights and layovers.
Remember your holiday spirit
A smile won't always help your travel situation, but it'll probably never hurt it. Remember: Everyone else around you would rather not be at the airport or sitting in traffic.
And the same goes for flight crews and everyone else who's helping make your transit possible. Don't forget to wish them a "Happy holidays."