We all know that Thanksgiving is just the beginning. This time of year means hot chocolate and thoughtful gifts, but it also means constant traffic jams and long delays in airports. To combat the frenzy of the season, employees of the popular travel website Kayak revealed some of their best tips for traveling.

This is the second year in a row the site has offered its suggestions, so we decided to compile the best from both years. Hopefully some of these tips will make your travels a little less painful.

  • Download a great podcast to get your mind off of your surroundings.
  • Order yourself a glass of wine to start your vacation off right.
  • Fly at off-peak times to avoid the crowds.
  • Never check a bag. Carry-ons are the way to go.
  • This one's a bit counterintuitive: Take the longer route to your destination and enjoy the journey, stopping at local cafes and bars on the way.
  • Think like a local and avoid touristy places. If you're unsure of what the best choices are, ask a waiter or store clerk for suggestions.
  • Check out these fun airport bars/restaurants if they're on your way: Blue Smoke at JFK Airport, Joe & the Juice in Copenhagen Airport, Airbrau at Munich Airport, Stock Car Café in the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, and Ramen Alley in Japan's New Chitose Airport.
  • If you're flying to a different time zone, avoid jet lag by popping an Ambien and sleeping through your flight. Or try drinking a ton of water and staying awake and powering through it.
  • If you do check a bag, never leave home without a change of clothes and necessary toiletries in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost.
  • Bring earplugs, a face mask, and a neck pillow so that you can catch up on some sleep.