11 Travel Tips for Dealing with Holiday Weather
Skip the first and last flights. If you're traveling during seasons with a high likelihood of inclement weather, avoid the first or last flight of the day since these flights have a higher frequency of being canceled, depending on the start and end time of the storm.
Take advantage of travel waivers. Often airlines will issue travel waivers that allow you to rebook your ticket away from the affected dates at no additional charge. It would be best if you took advantages of these when they post.
Get travel advisories or weather alerts delivered to your phone. Several apps allow you to receive email or text message notifications from your airline about your flight's status. A weather.com app can keep you updated about conditions.
Reroute a connecting flight. There are times the weather in your departure city and at your destination is clear, but the weather in your connecting city could be more desirable. If that happens, a travel agent can help you reroute your connection flight through an airport with no delays.
Avoid booking flights at the ticket counter. If you must buy a new ticket, refrain from doing so at the airport ticket counter, or you will likely pay a higher rate. Call your airline customer service line to book you, even if you are standing in an airport.
Consider larger airports and travel lights. If you suspect there may be severe weather threats during your travel, consider flying from a larger airport. Larger international airports will have a greater chance of more alternate flights and are better equipped to clear runways faster or with de-icing of a plane.
Travel with a Carry On. If you travel with only a carry-on, you'll be in a better position to change flights quickly in case of a cancellation.
Book a room early if you're facing an overnight delay. If weather conditions will keep you from reaching your final destination that same day, it is important to make a room reservation for an overnight stay as soon as possible.
Sign up for travel insurance. For those instances where you may miss a flight because you were stuck in traffic or your ship sailed without you when your flight was canceled or delayed, travel insurance can be your saving grace to recoup all or part of your travel investment.
Stay on the main roads. If you're driving between destinations, stick to major highways or well-traveled roads to facilitate other people coming to your rescue quickly should you need assistance. Travel also during daylight hours or when car repair shops or convenience stores are more likely to be open. If you're stranded in your vehicle for an extended period, run your engine for only a few minutes once or twice an hour to stay warm and conserve gas. While the car is running, slightly roll down a window to keep carbon monoxide from building up inside.
Pack an emergency travel kit. Whether driving, flying or traveling by rail, prepare for possible delays with a few essentials in your carry-on. Pack a hand-carry bag with an extra sweater, gloves or small throw, water and high-energy or high-protein foods such as granola bars or beef jerky. You should also pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, a change of underwear and any needed prescription medications. Remember a small flashlight, extra batteries or phone charger, a first aid kit and a good book.
Book with a travel agent. Travel agents are trained to monitor situations like winter weather that may impact their clients' travel plans. As a result, they can work on alternative travel plans and can likely have those in place with the airline, hotel or car and driver the moment the need arises.
