The holidays are supposed to be magical… but let’s be real: for busy professionals, they’re often magical and mildly chaotic. Between closing out the year at work, juggling family plans, and navigating crowded airports or highways, travel can quickly turn into a source of stress.
At IAW, we’re all about helping you protect your time, your energy, and your peace — even during the busiest season of the year. That’s why we’re sharing five tried-and-true tips to make holiday travel smoother, calmer, and a little more joyful (yes, it’s possible!).
1. Plan Backward, Not Just Forward
Instead of starting with your departure date, look at when you want to arrive at your destination — physically and mentally. Do you need buffer time to decompress before a family gathering? Do you want one full day home before you return to work?
Reverse-engineering your itinerary helps reduce burnout and builds space for recovery.
2. Keep a Travel Essentials Kit Ready
Avoid last-minute packing stress by keeping a travel kit stocked with your non-negotiables: chargers, toiletries, snacks, a good book, and any personal comfort items (eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, etc.).
Bonus tip: pack with intention. What you bring affects how you feel.
3. Choose Travel Partners That Work for You
Long lines, unclear policies, and unreliable service create unnecessary stress — especially when you’re juggling a full calendar.
That’s why we love working with Sixt, our trusted rental car partner. With easy mobile booking, the option to choose your car from your phone, and fast pickup (seriously — I was in and out in minutes on my last trip), Sixt makes ground travel feel like a luxury.
And as an IAW member? You get an exclusive discount to make your travel even easier.
🚗 https://innercircle.iawomen.com/c/member-discounts/sixt-rental-cars
4. Say No to Overscheduling
Just because you can squeeze in three client meetings and a dinner doesn’t mean you should. Block time for yourself while traveling — whether it’s 30 minutes to stretch in your hotel room, or a quiet solo lunch between events.
Remember: rest is productive.
5. Redefine What “Successful Travel” Means
Success doesn’t mean getting everything perfect — it means arriving with your energy intact. It means feeling grounded, confident, and present. Choosing partners, practices, and plans that support that goal? That’s leadership in action.
This season, give yourself permission to travel on your terms.
Whether you’re heading to family, a warm getaway, or one last work trip, we’re cheering you on every mile of the way.And when it comes to getting there with less stress and more ease — we trust Sixt to get you moving.
