02/11/2021
If you traveled last week, you probably were a victim of the dreaded canceled flight by American Airlines or Southwest! It's an epidemic right now with the lack of pilots and flight crews. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your inevitable flight cancellation or delay.
Back up plans 101:
Make sure you have good travel insurance that covers delays and missed flight connections. Airport hotels are expensive and a delay or 1 or 2 nights could cost you $1000. People never think they need trip insurance until they do. It's a worthy expenditure!
Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag, even if you check a bag. Bring an extra day or 2 of clothes. Pack a toothbrush and travel-size toothpaste.
Speak to your travel advisor, and know what your backup plan options are, in the event you get stuck. Your travel advisor is your greatest ally and asset when things go wrong!
Be sure you have things like a portable charger, an extra USB cable, and the ability to work remotely if needed.
Bring an extra day of medications, protein, food, etc. that you might need to get you through a delayed flight. Airport food is expensive! Beef Jerky, protein bars, and Peanut Butter crackers are your friends.
Know your alternate airports that although might not be as convenient, could be close enough to get you on your trip without a delay. For example, an alternate to CVG (Cincinnati) might be Dayton, Lexington, Indianapolis, Columbus, or Detroit.
Pack your patience! I can't stress this enough. Traveling today is not for the weak of heart. Everyone is stressed to the max with the lack of proper staffing, and it affects us all. Be kind to the person helping you, because they showed up, and they are doing their best to help.
