The summer of 2022 should be all about a return to touring glory after more than two years of pandemic-related downturns. Instead, the summer of travel chaos — from flight delays and cancellations to lost luggage to congested airports — is unfolding thanks to ongoing labor shortages and other problems. No wonder passenger complaints have increased by more than 300 percent compared to before the pandemic.
For an in-depth look at the depressing numbers, visit FlightAware, the world’s largest flight tracking platform that tracks cancellations and delays at airlines and airports around the world. (You can even follow the action — or, perhaps more accurately, the inaction — live via the Misery Map, which provides real-time visualization of delays and cancellations at major U.S. airports.)
But with a little skill, planning, and a few essentials, travelers needn’t be at the mercy of the glitches that currently plague air travel. Here are some traveler-tested tips for surviving flight delays and cancellations.
Buy travel insurance
One key piece of advice for travelers during the height of the pandemic still applies: the importance of purchasing travel insurance. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation (a scenario that’s becoming increasingly common these days), travel insurance can save the day — or at least save you from paying for hotels, non-refundable reservations, and other extra expenses.
Be sure to read the fine print before you buy to make sure you know exactly what the policy covers (emergency room, missed flights, non-refundable hotel rooms, to name a few).
Hand luggage only
There’s a simple solution to avoid your suitcase ending up in the mountains of luggage that pile up at airports around the world: no checked baggage.
Yes, packing for carry-on only can be difficult, especially on longer trips, and depending on your airline and status, you may have to pay for the privilege. But it’s worth avoiding the hassle that comes with a lost suitcase, whether at the beginning or end of your trip. There are other benefits too. You can go straight to security and skip the baggage check queue, and with carry-on baggage only, you have more options for an easier rebooking in case your flight is delayed or canceled as some airlines do not allow delayed passengers who already have a bag Fly Standby checked.
The bottom line: If you don’t already have a reliable carry-on suitcase in your travel tool kit, now is the time to buy one. Away is a popular brand loved by frequent travelers, but if you’re looking for a less expensive option, there are dozens of budget-friendly options on the market.
Invest in a Bluetooth tracker for your luggage
If carry-on only is not an option and you need to check a bag (don’t say we didn’t warn you), you’ll need to equip that bag with a Bluetooth tracking device. These nifty products, which cost around $25-27 each, can be invaluable when locating luggage if it doesn’t show up on the baggage carousel.
Apple’s AirTag is an excellent bet (the four-pack option is a great choice for families); Experienced travelers stow one of the round discs in each suitcase. Tile is the other leading option; They also come in handy packs of four, but unlike AirTags, they come in different colors (as well as a sticker version).
Choose your clothes and shoes wisely
When you have to wait for hours—whether it’s in line, on the tarmac before your flight even takes off, or while you’re scanning the baggage carousel—it’s crucial to choose clothing that’s as functional as it is comfortable. Opt for cosy, versatile fabrics that regulate body temperature (especially ideal for stuffy or chilly airplane cabins), and always opt for layers so you can change clothes off and on as needed.
The just-launched Nomad Joggers from Ibex are the ideal choice no matter what chaos your travel day throws at you. A lighter, more travel-friendly version of the brand’s popular Hero Joggers, they’re made from French merino terry that wicks moisture and resists odor. For footwear, Vionic offers a wide range of stylish slip-on sneakers and flats that are easy to slip off at security – and go straight from the airport to a full day (or night) of activity.
Don’t forget the snacks
What’s worse than the agony of a seemingly never-ending line at the airport? Be hungry while navigating. Stashing a few easily stowable snacks and drinks will go a long way in relieving the frustration of waiting, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Perfect for packaging your favorite treats, Stojo’s collapsible, reusable containers come in bowls, boxes and cups that take up minimal space when compacted (they’re also eco-friendly by eliminating single-use waste). The brand also has its own kid-centric line, Stojo Jr. (bonus: When empty, these nifty products double as toys too—little ones love folding and expanding.)
Another plus for bringing your own treats: They avoid paying exorbitant prices at airport vendors (if they haven’t run out of food).
Bring a charger
Einova by Eggtronic
amazon.com
$59.99
Another staple for any trip: A powerful, portable power bank that keeps your devices going when power outlets are tight (like at crowded airport gates or, you guessed it, in those ubiquitous lines). Einova’s ultra-fast power bank offers 63 watts of juice across three ports, covering all your charging needs in a sleek, stylish design. Einova’s power bank weighs about a pound and is covered in gray fabric – a nice touch compared to most other products on the market that don’t go beyond the plastic body. A small display on the top shows the exact battery percentage so you can easily see how much juice you have left, and it takes less than three hours to fully charge the bank at its maximum 30W charging speed. (One downside, however, is that it doesn’t include a power adapter, so you’ll have to buy one separately.)