Holiday travel: Handling flight delays & cancellations

Nov 28 2024 MFR travel team

Traveling during the holidays can bring a mix of excitement and tension with it! Increased crowds, at airports and the changing winter weather can lead to flight delays and flight cancellations during this time of year.. However with some planning you can reduce the stress of these changes. Here's a helpful guide to get ready, for holiday travel and make your journey smoother!

Book flights with care

The timing and choice of your flight can make a big difference during the holiday rush:

• Choose early morning flights: Early flights are less likely to be delayed since the day’s schedule hasn’t had time to back up. Aim for flights departing before 10 a.m. to increase your chances of an on-time takeoff.
• Avoid peak travel days: If possible, avoid flying on peak days like the Friday before Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Mid-week flights tend to be less crowded, and fewer passengers often mean fewer delays.
• Consider non-stop flights: With layovers, the chances of missing a connection due to delays increase, especially in winter. Non-stop flights reduce this risk and keep your travel plans simpler.

Track your flight regularly

Airlines often make last-minute schedule changes during the holiday season, so it’s crucial to stay on top of your flight status. Here’s how:

• Sign up for alerts: Register, for notifications. Many airlines offer the option to receive alerts via text or email regarding any modifications, to your flight schedule.
• Use flight tracking apps: Apps like FlightAware or the airline’s own app can help you monitor your flight in real time, letting you know about delays or gate changes early on.
• Check the weather: Bad weather is one of the main causes of holiday delays, so keeping an eye on weather forecasts, especially if you’re traveling through areas prone to snowstorms or icy conditions, can help you plan ahead.

Pack essentials in your carry-on

When flights are delayed or canceled, having your essentials within reach can make waiting at the airport a little more bearable. Pack the following in your carry-on bag:

• Toiletries and medications: Include essential items like toothpaste, face wipes, and any medications you may need in case you’re delayed overnight.
• Snacks and water: While airports usually have food options, long lines or limited availability during busy periods can be an issue. Bringing a few snacks can save you from waiting in crowded areas.
• Entertainment: Bring a book, download movies, or load up your tablet with games and other offline content to pass the time in case of delays.
• Power bank: With everyone crowding around charging stations, a fully charged power bank ensures your devices stay powered.

Know your rights as a passenger

If your flight is delayed or canceled, it’s essential to understand your rights. Many travellers don’t realize they may be entitled to compensation or alternative options.

• EU261 Regulation: If you’re flying within, from, or to the EU, and your flight is significantly delayed or canceled, you may be entitled to compensation. For delays over 3 hours, the compensation can range from 250 € to 600 €, depending on the flight distance.
• Rebooking and refund options: Airlines are typically required to rebook you on the next available flight or offer a ticket refund if your flight is canceled. If a major delay or cancellation occurs, you may also have the right to request a rebooking on another airline if it can get you to your destination sooner.

Consider travel insurance

Holiday travel insurance can be a lifesaver when dealing with delays, cancellations, or even lost luggage. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Delay and cancellation coverage: Many travel insurance plans cover expenses related to extended delays or cancellations, such as food and hotel costs if you’re stranded overnight.
• Trip interruption and cancellation benefits: These policies can reimburse you if your plans change last minute due to sickness, weather, or other unforeseen events.

• Lost luggage protection: During the holiday season it's common, for luggage to get delayed or lost at bustling airports, which can be quite inconvenient. It's an idea to have insurance that can help cover the expenses for items, in case your bags don't make it with you on time.

Plan for backup options

Having a contingency plan can reduce stress if you run into delays or cancellations:

• Know nearby airports: If you’re flying to a major city, check for nearby airports where flights may be redirected. Sometimes, alternative airports are less crowded and have more flexible scheduling.
• Keep emergency contacts and reservations handy: Having hotel, rental car, and emergency contact numbers easily accessible will help you make quick arrangements if needed.
• Prepare for ground travel: For shorter distances, consider if taking a train, bus, or renting a car is feasible. This is especially helpful if multiple flights are canceled or delayed due to weather.

How MYFLYRGHT can help you with flight issues

If your vacation arrangements get messed up due, to a flight delay or cancellation worries you surely need MYFLYRIGHT by your side in times of trouble! We specialize in managing flight claims. Be it seeking compensation for delays or securing refunds for cancellations effectively and efficiently. With an understanding of passenger rights as per EU261 and other pertinent rules and regulations governing air travel disruptions. MYFLYRIGHT will take charge of the entire claim process for you with our "no win no fee" policy, in place. This way you can enjoy your holiday while letting us handle all the paperwork and negotiations to ensure that you receive the rightful compensation you are entitled to.

Traveling during the holidays can sometimes be tricky; with preparation and planning ahead of time to account for potential delays and cancellations can help reduce stress levels significantly.The key, to a travel experience lies in making bookings keeping yourself updated with relevant information and being aware of your entitlements should any issues arise.. In case things don't go according to plan remember that MYFLYRIGHT is there, for you offering assistance to transform a holiday hiccup into an outcome.