In this episode of Life Kit, aviation journalist Benét Wilson, who has written for The Points Guy, MSN and CNN, shares tips on how to deal with the stress of holiday travel. She says she flies up to 50 times a year – and “I’ve learned that the absolute worst time to travel is during the holidays.”
Be patient. “The lines can be long. the TSA can get a little crazy. [Airlines] might run out of seats. I always tell people to be patient,” Wilson said.
Be prepared for high airfares. “If you’re looking for the lowest-priced bargains, you’re not going to find those this holiday season,” she says.
To get the best deals, buy your tickets early and keep an eye out for Tuesday and Wednesday – “that’s when airlines introduce new fares,” she adds.
If your flight is canceled, reschedule as soon as you find out. “I tell people to make sure they have the airline app on their phone because sometimes you can get information there faster than the gate agent. Whatever you do, don’t wait in long lines. Either use the app [to reschedule your flight] or call the airline directly,” she says.
If your flight is oversold, check your options. Airlines often ask passengers with flexible schedules to voluntarily choose another time to take their flight. When that happens, the airline may offer travel vouchers and allowances, Wilson said. Negotiate “a first class seat or at least premium economy class,” she said. And “ask for food vouchers and access to the airline lounge.”
If you are involuntarily bumped, remember you have rights. “First, you can get your money back. You don’t have to take the voucher – [the airline must] arrange for you to get on the next available flight.”
Take action as soon as you know you will miss your flight. “Things happen,” she says. “If you’re in your car and you know you’re going to miss your flight, call the airline while you’re still driving so you can get other arrangements.”
If your flight is canceled or delayed, don’t yell at ticket agents and gates. “They have no control over the weather, the mechanics of the plane or the situation. All they can do is try to help you. When you’re nice to them, they’re more likely to help you,” Wilson said. You can also show your appreciation by bringing candy in your bag.
Pack the essentials to make the trip more enjoyable. “I call it my little travel bag,” Wilson says. “I always bring my Bose noise-canceling headphones. I carry two chargers. I have my Kindle and I have snacks. Download movies because you never know if the Wi-Fi is going to go down.” Check out the table below for more highlights:
Keep the essentials handy in case of delays, says travel journalist Benet Wilson. Clockwise from left: backpack, ID, hygiene, food and drink, electronics, clothing, medicine.
NPR’s Lindsey Balbierz
More travel tips from Life Kit
Pack like a pro. We asked three road warriors to share their tips on how to pack light.
Stay quiet when traveling with a group. The stress of travel and differences in people’s personalities can make traveling with friends difficult. This is a way to have a great time while deepening your connections.
Make the most of your trip. This episode explores the mystery of why we leave home and get away from everyday life and asks: what is the real purpose of travel?
Coping with the fear of flying. If flying gives you anxiety, here are 6 ways to distract yourself, deal with your emotions and face your fears.
