Here we will go over how to prepare for and handle delays while traveling.

Flight delays and cancellations are such a common occurrence in travel that it affects one out of every five flights. Delays are annoying, boring, and disruptive, and unfortunately, they are unavoidable.

Although you have no power over whether or not your flight is delayed or canceled, there are many ways to prepare for the situation.

Let’s jump right in.

Try to Have a Flexible Schedule

I know it’s easier said than done, but if you can arrange your schedule to be more flexible, delays are not as overwhelming.

Consider leaving a day or even a few hours early. If you have meetings scheduled for when you arrive at your destination, try organizing them to take place a few hours after your estimated landing time. Delays are most disruptive when you have somewhere to be immediately upon arrival.

Bring Comfort Items

 Having items that make you comfortable is really what is going to get you through the delay.

Comfort items might be a blanket and pillow, headphones, a sweater, books, games, or any other item that helps you relax.

Charge Your Devices

Having fully charged devices during a delay is important for reasons other than entertainment.

When your flight is delayed, you will likely spend quite a bit of time making phone calls. You might need to call people who are traveling with you, your family, your hotel, rental car service, and travel agent or travel insurance.

If you travel for business, not being able to communicate may jeopardize the trip, and if you are traveling to visit family, you might make your loved ones worry. It’s best to bring devices fully charged and even pack your chargers in your carry-on.

Bring Snacks

Everything airline-related is outstandingly overpriced, which is horrible during a delay because you will probably get thirsty and hungry while waiting.

Instead of emptying your wallet on unsatisfying portions of airport food, bring your snacks in your carry-on.

The best snacks are often crackers, chips, cured meats, fruit, and water.

Purchase Travel Insurance

If you have a long delay or cancellation, travel insurance will come in handy.

Travel insurance can protect you by covering the costs associated with any mishap that occurs on your trip. This means that your food, extra lodging, new tickets, etc. will be paid for because you purchased a travel policy. The best part is that your policy is active immediately, so even if a cancellation occurs months before departure, it is covered if you have an active policy.

Know Your Rights

Although travel insurance is helpful in the event of a delay, it is actually the responsibility of the airline to cover the related expenses.

Not all airlines have the same rules, and few practice the procedures unless a customer makes a request, but most airlines provide food vouchers for delays and free hotel rooms for cancellations.

Before your trip, look into the airline’s fine print. If the airline offers vouchers, simply ask staff for them when your flight is delayed.

Use a Trusted Booking Agency

Using a trusted booking agency makes delays go smoothly when lodging is affected.

Agencies like Hotel Engine can help by finding a hotel or business lodging, rebooking your original plans, providing you with information on your rights, and more.

Depending on the agency you code choose, you may receive delay notifications and have an account manager that can assist you with the situation.

Don’t Stress When Traveling

One of the best things you can do to prepare for travel delays is to stay calm and don’t stress out about the situation.

If a delay occurs, there will be no amount of stress, anxiety, and complaining that can change the situation. It’s best to leave for your trip with a good understanding of how high the likelihood of delay is, and don’t be surprised if it happens.

If your trip is delayed, kick back, relax, and don’t worry because all expenses are covered and everything else is out of your control.

Conclusion

Travel delays can be quite frustrating, especially when on a tight budget and time frame. Luckily, there are many things you can do to prepare in case it happens.

Your delay can go smoothly if you purchase travel insurance, use a trusted booking agency, bring snacks, fully charge your devices, and stay calm.