Traveling for the holidays can be a wonderful adventure and, sometimes, an exasperating headache. We gathered some tips from expert travelers to help your journey go more smoothly, wherever you’re headed this season.
If you are bringing gifts to your destination, it’s best to ship them ahead of time. Do not bring wrapped gifts to the airport, as they may need to be unwrapped and unboxed at security. If you are a StayLakeNorman guest, our concierge service can help coordinate the delivery of gifts.
Heading to a rental home? Save yourself time and have groceries and other necessities delivered to your destination before you arrive. If you have an Instacart account, you can enter any address and search nearby stores that deliver. StayLakeNorman is partnered with Lakeshore Provisions and can provide our guests with deliveries direct to your rental and ready upon arrival.
Be sure to screenshot all important travel information (boarding passes, directions, hotel confirmation, door codes, etc.) in case your phone connection is weak or apps don’t work as they should.
Put an AirTag or other tracker in every bag you are checking. This makes it much easier to locate lost luggage.
Pack a delay kit in your carry-on, just in case. It should include snacks, medications, chargers, a toothbrush and an empty water bottle.
If you’re traveling with a tablet to keep your kiddos occupied, be sure to download shows, games, audiobooks, etc. that can be used without wifi.
Citymapper is useful for walking and transit directions, especially in big cities.
Tripit allows you to import all your travel documents and create a master itinerary.
Uber and/or Lyft are useful ridesharing apps, especially if you’re heading to a place where cabs aren’t plentiful. StayLakeNorman guests can take advantage of our trusted driving partners, eliminating any stress of the unknown. Just let our team know if you require a ride.
Google Translate is essential if you’re traveling internationally and do not speak the language.
Create a “delay mindset.” When you go into travel expecting there to be delays, crowds and inconveniences, it’s less frustrating when they happen. And, a happy surprise if they don’t!
Take mini-breaks to reduce stress – take a walk around the terminal instead of sitting at your gate, do some neck and shoulder stretches, use headphones to listen to a short meditation.
Bring comfort items that will make waiting more bearable, such as noise-cancelling headphones, a cozy scarf or blanket, and a favorite podcast or audiobook (pre-downloaded, of course).
To increase chances of staying healthy, carry hand sanitizing wipes with you, avoid standing in crowds for longer than necessary, and wipe down high-touch surfaces on the plane.
Hydrate well before travel and bring an empty water bottle that you can refill after passing through security. Limit caffeine and alcohol while in transit to your destination (enjoy it once you’ve finally arrived!)
There’s really no choice other than a luxury lake house when you’re spending time in the Lake Norman area. StayLakeNorman offers vacation rentals with high-end amenities and concierge services that exceed expectations. If your stay leads to falling in love with the idea of living on the lake or investing in a property of your own, our real estate team will be your guide to making that dream a reality.
We wish you happy holidays, safe travels and hope to see you soon in Lake Norman, NC!
