The dreaded travel season is nearly upon us. Traveling for the holidays used to be a time of joy and a time to see family and friends. However, with weather disruptions, airline cancellations, and luggage snafus, holiday travel has become pretty stressful.

Holiday travel season is here. Buckle up!

I’ve traveled all over the world and have had my fair share of travel stress. I can reduce that stress by following a few simple rules:

1. Be flexible with your time

If you are on a tight schedule or have to be back for work, this is not always possible. However, if you can, avoid traveling when everyone else does. Fly several days before or after major holidays or weekends.

2. Be prepared for disruptions

I never travel without travel insurance. I also travel prepared with information about my airline’s flight policy and hotel cancellation policy. I’m also prepared to pivot and get a last-minute hotel in case of disruptions.

3. Never, ever, ever check a bag

I have not checked a bag in 30 years of traveling. In fact, on each trip, I pack less and less. I usually travel with a 20-liter backpack for both domestic and international trips, but I’m excited to go even lighter.

For an upcoming trip to Chicago, I’m packing in 12-liter handbag.

I was inspired to go ultralight several years ago after watching a video by Brooke from Her Packing List. I signed up for her Handbag Packing Masterclass and I’m never going back.

Brooke from Her Packing List teaches women how to pack in a handbag.

Her class was not only inspiring, but she makes you go through the actual work of learning how to pack for any trip in a handbag. During each step you learn how to integrate her unique way of thinking about what you really need to travel light.

The latest iteration of the class is a 5-day masterclass called Baggage Freedom Express. This hands-on intensive will help free your mind of both physical and mental baggage. The class also includes access to the Handbag Packing Masterclass and Baggage Freedom Express community of fellow light packers.

Learn more about Baggage Freedom Express and join the waitlist for the next session.

By Christina Nellemann for the (Tiny House Blog)