We’ve all been there. Flights are changed, cancelled, and delayed with little warning leaving you in a pickle. As we all come back from Covid, flight issues seem to be more prevalent due to high traffic and low staffing. Keep reading to see my top 5 suggestions on how to handle flights problems like a pro!
Why Listen to Me?
I consider myself to be well versed in handling flight problems for a couple of reasons. Reason #1: Aubrey and I spent our first year together traveling long distance and flying between Little Rock and Knoxville. None of those were direct or conveniently timed flights (unfortunately), which means we commonly ran into issues. Reason #2: Aubrey and I also share the love of traveling. That obviously comes with spending a fair amount of time flying and in airports. Reason #3: I travel for work, a lot! Sometimes it’s driving, but sometimes it’s flying regionally. Between all of these circumstances, I’ve had my fair share of flight problems to maneuver through and learn from!
Tip #1: Use Chat
In the last few years, maybe because of Covid or maybe not, the chat functionality of the major airlines is incredibly helpful! I find that Delta’s is the best between the big 3, but all of them are better than standing in a long line at customer service. Through the chat function you can get on standby (see Tip #2), rebook a flight, ask for compensation for a cancelled or delayed flight, etc. Basically, if you can do it with a human, you can do it on chat! You can even utilize the chat function to your benefit WHILE flying.
Tip #2: Standby
For the longest time I thought, without reason, that standby was useless. It wasn’t until I started taking chances on standby and typically making those flights that I found it really helpful! If you have flexibility for when you can travel, book the safe flight and get on standby for the risky flight. I’ve made it to where I was going hours early by using standby. You can get on the list by either using your airline’s chat function (see Tip #1), or by speaking with a gate agent. Trust me, the risk is worth the reward!
Tip #3: Don’t Worry About the Free Stuff
If or when you have a flight cancel or have an extreme delay, the airlines will offer you food and accommodation vouchers. First, the food voucher is not enough to buy Taco Bell, so don’t bother. They’re also sometimes only able to be used in the airport, so that money goes even less far. Second, the hotel accommodations the airlines work out are in places you probably don’t want to stay. They’re usually far away from the airport, not nice, and you might even have the privilege of the place smelling like trash (personal story). Instead of waiting in an enormous line when you’re already exhausted, set up your own accommodations. Then, request the appropriate reimbursement from the airlines after the fact. You’ll get a much better deal!
Tip #4: Carry On If You Can
If you’re planning a shorter trip where you can get everything you need in a carry-on, then don’t check a bag! Having everything with you makes travel flexibility so much easier. If you’re going on a longer trip, then be sure to carry on the essentials + a little extra. We always try to have the must-have toiletries, an extra set of clothes and pajamas, and a couple of snacks with us in our carry-ons. It’s also a good idea to have a charger or charging bank, and an empty water bottle you can easily fill up after security. If or when you have a flight cancel or delay, you’ll be glad you have your carry-on packed right!
Tip #5: Lounge Day Passes
If you’re someone who has a travel credit card that allows lounge access, then you can skip this tip. If you’re like me and do everything based on points, then this is for you! Depending on the airport and how busy it is, most airline lounges allow day passes. These are typically around $50 for the day, and you have full access to the lounge! This came in super handy for me when trying to get home from Miami where I ended up spending 12 hours in the airport. I spent $50 for a day pass to the American Airlines lounge and it made the experience bearable. I was able to eat for “free”, and the agents in the lounge were incredibly helpful in getting me rebooked to get home as soon as possible. If you’re in a long layover situation, try checking the different airline lounges and asking about day pass availability!