5 TIPS TO KEEP YOU FROM BEING A WEATHER TRAVEL CASUALTY

Extreme winter weather has already been creating travel chaos across the country, and the increased numbers of upcoming holiday travelers may find themselves in difficult circumstances.

So, what can you do to avoid becoming a weather victim stretched out on the floor of an airport for several days hoping to finally board a flight to your destination?

1. Pay close attention to the weather forecasts, not only for your departure airport but also for any connecting airports, as well as your final destination. If the airlines are waiving the cancellation fees for passengers to rebook their flights on your travel dates and routes, it is very likely that many flights will be canceled at that airport.

In that case, you can look for a different routing if you are scheduled to connect through a city in the path of a storm or change your travel dates to avoid getting stuck someplace without a flight option out.

However, if you absolutely must try to get to a destination where the airport may be closed, consider flying into the closest area outside the immediate storm system and rent a car to drive the rest of the way. This solution is only for the truly desperate, and you will need to reserve a rental car in advance since other people will probably be trying to arrive the same way.

2. Before you fly, look up other flights departing after yours, in case you are delayed and need to ask for the next best flight departure.

3. Carry your airline’s main reservation number with you, so you can call immediately for assistance instead of waiting in a long airport line to get help.

4. Be sure that your cell phone is fully charged, so you can make alternate arrangements as quickly as possible. Keep your charger in your hand luggage also.

5. Know which airport hotels are close by and carry their phone numbers with you. If you are likely to be stuck at an airport overnight with hundreds of other travelers, be prepared to contact the hotels as soon as this possibility arises and reserve a room for at least one night. You can always get back to the terminal quickly when the flights resume and still get some rest in the meantime.

These are just a few tips to make your travel as smooth as possible during the winter months.

Safe travels!