07/05/2022
Air travel right now is a mess with delays and cancellations due to summer storms (even if there is not bad weather on the ground where you are there maybe bad weather in skies along the way or where you sre headed), staffing shortages, etc... Here are a few tips to help ease some of the pain.
1. Know that flight prices are higher than normal right now. Use sites like Google Flights to find low cost travel dates. Sometimes a day before or after can make a big difference in fare. On Southwest use the option to see prices by the month.
2. Take carry-on luggage that way if your flight is delayed or cancelled you have things you may need with you and don't have to deal with "where is my bag" stress on top of everything else. If you are unable to pack using carryons at least make sure your important things such as documents, medication, etc...are with you!
3. Book through the airlines, this is not the time to use 3rd party sites like Expedia, Priceline, etc...The airline will say you didn't purchase throu us so not our problem while the 3rd party site tries to direct you to the airline. Lots of finger pointing and little assistance!
4. Make sure you have trip insurance. Some credit cards offer this if you book your travel through them. Do not rely on airline insurance offered when you purchase your ticket. Try Allianz.
5. Fly out early. Plan to travel at least a day in advance if you have to be somewhere, do not risk arriving just in time. Also take the early flight out so that if things happen you have time to be rebooked that day.
6. Make sure you have an assigned seat before you get to the airport otherwise you will be among the first to be bumped if flights is oversold. You can make sure you select a seat, check-in online or call to request a seat. If flying Spirit you may need to pay for a seat.
7. Be as flexible as you can with traveling and at destination. Have back up plans. Don't commit to any plans you don't have to. Make sure things are refundable, hotels and activities! Don't lock yourself in!
