Travel is a major part of the Christmas season, especially for families who share custody or live in different cities, counties, or even states. Whether you're driving across Temple, flying out of Austin or Dallas, or coordinating long-distance visitation for a military family connected to Fort Cavazos, travel can be one of the most stressful parts of co-parenting during the holidays.

At Barina Law Group, we hear from many parents who feel overwhelmed trying to manage flights, packing, drop-offs, delays, or coordinating travel with a difficult co-parent. This guide will help you plan your Christmas travel with confidence, reduce stress, and ensure your child enjoys the holiday safely and emotionally supported.

1. Review Your Court Order Before Making Travel Plans

Nearly every Texas custody order includes:

• Travel notification requirements

• Prohibited destination rules

• Out-of-state travel restrictions

• Passport requirements

• Consecutive-day possession limits

• Instructions for military-connected families

Before booking flights or hotels, re-read the Holiday Possession Schedule and travel clauses in your order. If something is unclear, Barina Law Group can review it with you and confirm what is (and is not) allowed.

2. Notify the Other Parent in Writing — Early

Most orders require you to provide:

• Destination and full address

• Dates of travel

• Airline/flight numbers

• Hotel or lodging information

• Contact phone numbers

• Names of adults traveling with the child

Even if your order doesn't require it, providing this information promotes transparency and protects you legally.

Best practice:
Send the full itinerary 10–14 days before departure.

3. Prepare Your Child Emotionally for Travel

Children often feel anxious when switching households during Christmas — especially young children, children with special needs, or children who are dealing with the effects of separation.

Help them by:

• Showing the itinerary on a calendar

• Packing together

• Discussing what to expect

• Letting them choose a comfort item

• Writing a small note for their suitcase or backpack

This builds emotional security during major holiday transitions.

4. Pack Thoughtfully When Moving Between Homes

Pack:

• Medications

• Winter clothing

• School items (if needed)

• Holiday gifts

• Comfort toys

• Chargers & electronics

• Travel documents

Include a list of everything packed so the other parent knows what belongs to your child and what must be returned.

5. Plan Extra Time for Delays

Holiday traffic in Texas — especially between Temple, Killeen, Belton, Austin, and Dallas — can be unpredictable. If you're flying, plan for:

• Long security lines

• Weather delays

• Missed connections

• Crowded airports

Kids handle travel better when parents remain calm and flexible. Consider:

• Bringing snacks

• Charging all electronics

• Packing a travel activity bag

6. Avoid Negative Communication During Travel Days

Exchanges around Christmas often bring out strong emotions. Keep communication:

• Neutral

• Brief

• Child-focused

• Business-like

• Written

Do not engage in arguments on travel days. Children need calm, reassuring energy.

7. Facilitate Virtual Contact When Appropriate

If your child is missing the other parent during Christmas travel, consider:

• Short video calls

• Sending a photo of your child smiling

• Allowing the child to send a message

This reduces anxiety and helps avoid loyalty conflicts.

8. For Military Families: Plan Around Duty Schedules

Fort Cavazos families often deal with:

• Deployment

• TDY assignments

• Training

• PCS moves

If your travel is affected by military obligations, notify the other parent immediately and provide supporting documentation. Courts understand military limitations, but communication is essential.

9. When Travel Problems Become Legal Problems

If you are facing:

• A parent refusing holiday travel

• A parent hiding travel plans

• A parent changing plans without notice

• Interference with possession

• Denial of phone contact

• A parent refusing to return the child on time

Contact Barina Law Group. Holiday travel interference is taken seriously and can be corrected through enforcement or emergency action.

Barina Law Group is here to support your family this Christmas.

Visit www.bobbybarinalaw.com or call (254) 699-3755 to schedule a consultation.