This is a sponsored post on behalf of Responsival. All thoughts are my own.

With the holidays upon us, more people than ever are thinking about all of the things they need to mark off their holiday to-do lists. This year, with Thanksgiving being a week later than usual, everyone's feeling the time crunch to get everything done before December 25th arrives. There's holiday shopping, gift wrapping, cookie baking, holiday activities, card mailing, and parties/events clogging up every calendar this time of year, and my family's is no different.

Something my husband has recently mentioned to me is upping our life insurance policies. We've both been trying to focus more on our health and wellness, so life insurance has been on our minds. It's also on our minds around times we know we'll be traveling, like the holidays. One of my biggest fears is being in a car accident, and my husband and I both want to make sure that we are protected as a family, should anything happen.

There are so many different options for life insurance, but one that has come up in conversation multiple times is term life insurance. Being able to access instant life insurance before you travel is something that will put your mind at ease, and allow you to enjoy your travels. Both my parents and in-laws have traveled out of the country at different times, and have always made a point in telling us where important documents are kept, as well as plans and procedures, should anything happen to them.

These are things that no one wants to think about, especially during the holidays, but being prepared is always the best course of action. It's been a long time since our family took a major trip, but even on small trips, we know that things can and do happen. If something were to happen to us, we need to know that our children are properly cared for. 

It can be truly difficult to keep up with everything there is to do this time of year. That's one of the reasons my husband and I share Google calendars, and why we keep spreadsheets for gifts, cards, baking, etc. It may seem to be a bit 'extra,' but it helps us stay organized.

We also prioritize keeping bills and expenses organized this time of year. We set limits on spending for gifts, and try to stay within our pre-determined holiday budgets. One of the biggest things that we try to account for are incidentals that may pop up during the holidays. No one can predict when their heat might go out if someone gets sick or has car trouble. It's a good idea to set up an emergency fund and have it ready to access if necessary, so it will stay on track with your holiday funds.

The holidays are busy enough without having the added stress of making plans for unforeseen events. You can save yourself and your loves ones the trouble of worrying by having a plan in place, and setting things in motion before major holidays or stressful times of the year. With so many options, it may seem overwhelming as you look over plans and try to make decisions. You don't have to go at it alone. There are many people, such as financial planners, who are equipped to help in these situations, so take advantage of that, as they offer to share insights and expertise. 

Don't let the hustle and bustle that comes along with the holidays be your downfall. Get organized, get a plan in place, and work toward checking things like adding life insurance off your to-do list, so you can fully enjoy the wonder and joy of the holidays without stress.