Traveling in the winter months to, from or through destinations with winter weather conditions can wreak havoc on your schedule and add stress to your overall travel experience.
While we can’t eliminate the weather conditions, we can make some adjustments to minimize the stress and manage some of the factors that can cause stress and delays.
IF YOU CAN, AVOID CONNECTING THROUGH A WINTER WEATHER CITY
Most airlines have hubs that the majority of their flights connect through. You should consider choosing an airline with a hub in a non-winter city, for example, American Airlines connects in Dallas or Charlotte vs. United Airlines who connects in Chicago.
AVOID CONNECTIONS ALL TOGETHER AND BOOK A NON-STOP FLIGHT
It may be more expensive but it’s worth it. Even if you experience winter weather conditions at your origin or destination, you won’t be stuck in what I call, no man’s land. You’ll also have more options at your origin and destination.
CARRY-ON ONLY, DO NOT CHECK A BAG
Flight delays can cause bags to be delayed, rerouted and possibly lost, especially if you’re on a connecting flight. The other issue is that if you check a bag and want to change your flight, your bag will likely go on the flight your bag was originally checked on. The airlines will usually tell you that they can pull your bag but, chances are, it won’t happen.
If you must check a bag, pack essential items and, at least, a change of clothes in a carry-on bag in case your bag doesn’t arrive. This has certainly saved me in the past.
BOOK AN EARLY FLIGHT AND AVOID LATE OR ESPECIALLY THE LAST FLIGHT
Flight delays can have a domino effect for flights throughout the day making a midday flight a late evening flight. If you book the last flight of the day or even one of the latest flights, chances are an earlier delay will cause those flights to be canceled.
GET THE APP, SIGN UP FOR ALERTS
Get the app for that airline that you fly on frequently, the airlines send messages via their app before others are notified of delays and cancellations, giving you a leg up on rebooking options. You can also rebook yourself via the app, possibly before the rest of the travelers on that flight or flights are rebooked.
If you don’t get the app, at least sign up for text or email alerts. Once again, the airline system will generate and send messages quicker than contacting you by phone about a delay or cancellation.
Ja’Vonne