As we head into the middle of winter, many airline travelers
will experience inclement weather during their journeys. The effects of a
winter storm are felt by travelers long after the snow has stopped falling.
Avoiding travel during this time is the best bet. If this is not possible, use
these tips to help make winter travel more pleasant.
When a huge storm is threatening air travel, most airlines
will permit passengers to change their tickets at no charge. Travelers may find
a connecting flight through an unaffected city, allowing them to use their discount airline tickets while slightly
altering their itinerary. Act quickly if doing this because other passengers
are likely to follow suit.
After purchasing a discounted
airline ticket, enroll in airline alerts. Before leaving for the airport, check
flights online frequently. Flight status can change each minute because
airlines are working to clear the runways and planes of snow and ice and
reorganizing crews and slots. Using a portable device to verify flight status
on a regular basis until reaching the airport is a good idea.
If there is a possibility of making the original flight,
pack overnight essentials into carry-on baggage in case of overnight stranding.
Be sure the cell phone is fully charged and bring the charger in case the
flight is cancelled. Rebook the flight by trying to reach the airline by phone
while waiting in line at the airport for assistance. Go online to the airline
Web site as well, if possible.
Wear warm, comfortable clothing to the airport and pack
earplugs in the carry-on bag to make an overnight stay at the airport more
comfortable. Since airport food and entertainment items can be expensive, pack
snacks and a magazine or book. Head to the airport with the discount airline ticket in hand and
high hopes that the travel itinerary will be unaltered.
Leave a Reply