Preparing for the holidays can be overwhelming, especially when traveling is added into the mix. Why not grab a cup of holiday cheer and settle into your flight with these favorites? And, with streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, you can download movies on your devices to watch offline.

1.    Elf (2003)
Buddy the Elf’s contagious enthusiasm is just the pick-me-up you need for a long flight. Will Ferrell plays a man who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised by elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York to find his real father. A few snowball fights and cuddles later, Buddy saves Christmas and proves elves come in all sizes.

2.    National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
Christmas tree chopping, high-voltage light displays, mystery jello and guests overstaying their welcome … the Christmas spirit can’t be dampened in the Griswold House. The Griswold family’s epic holiday festivities, along with their epic guests – like Cousin Eddie, Aunt Bethany, Uncle Lewis, Ruby Sue and Snots, to name a few – go down in history as the hap- hap- happiest Christmas celebration ever. More than 25 years after its debut, the movie’s one-liners are as relevant as ever, and its cast of characters has inspired Christmas Vacation-themed parties across the country.

3.    It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
One of the most critically acclaimed films ever made, Jimmy Stewart visits our living rooms each holiday season in his role as a frustrated businessman who has given up on life. His guardian angel comes to him on Christmas Eve to show him how different life in his community would be had he never been born. Director Frank Capra revealed that It’s a Wonderful Life was his personal favorite among films he directed and he screened it for his family every Christmas season.

4.    Home Alone (1990)   
While it may induce panic for parents everywhere, the story of Kevin McAllister and his holiday shenanigans is too good to pass up. The film is the perfect balance of sweet, Christmas sentiments and youthful humor. Plus, it teaches us important travel lessons: Have a back-up alarm for early flights; there’s no such thing as too many head counts; and ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your house while you’re away.  

5.    How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 and 2000)
After long security lines and extra crowds, this Dr. Seuss classic will make your heart grow three sizes before the flight attendants prepare for landing. The animated original is only 26 minutes and perfect for quick connections. If you have a little more time on your hands, watch the remake with Jim Carrey. While the film will induce laughter, it also brings the madness of the holiday season back into focus. “Maybe Christmas,” he thought, “doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas … perhaps … means a little bit more.”

Do you have a holiday favorite that’s not on our list? Share your recommendations on our Facebook page.