When you travel a lot, it’s inevitable you’ll run into difficulties – especially when you fly. So many things can go wrong and when you have hours – or even a whole night – to wait until you take off, it’s easy to feel all is lost and your trip is ruined. But what can you do to deal with this? How can you make sure that when you’re stuck in the airport, you’re comfortable?
Here are a few tips to help you cope:
Check out your rights
The most common things that result in passengers having to wait in the airport are when their flight’s cancelled or delayed, or if they’re denied boarding. All three of these are rough and, as it’s beyond your control, it can feel like you’re totally helpless. However, in many cases you are actually entitled to compensation and, depending on the flight distance, route and the airline, this can be up to € 600! You can easily calculate how much you can claim online with companies like MYFLYRIGHT and they’ll even pursue your case for you. So, while you’re waiting in the airport, it may help alleviate some stress to be proactive and start getting the ball rolling on your compensation!
Packing prep
Even on short flights, it pays to pack your carry-on with (travel size!) toiletries, some snacks, a change of underwear and socks and some comfy clothes – it may seem like overkill, but you know flight cancellations and delays are unfortunately common – as too is overbooking of the plane. It’s worth it to take a slightly larger carry-on bag so you can guarantee comfort while in the airport – you’ll be so thankful you thought ahead, and it makes all the difference.
Explore
Most airports have plenty of shops you can check out – and now more than ever, you deserve a treat! Why not splurge on some decent noise-cancelling headphones, or a luxurious neck pillow to make your journey more comfortable? You can also see if your airport has something unusual to help pass the time – some these days have art galleries, swimming pools, aquariums, ice skating rinks and even wedding chapels! Failing that, a stroll round the Duty Free and finding a bargain can also do the trick!
Eat, drink, relax!
The moment you accept the situation is when you realise you can actually turn this around and make it an enjoyable experience. No, really! Just like treating yourself in the shops, you can also get a tasty bite while you wait. A lot of airports have stepped up their game in terms of cuisine and, as well as the local fayre, you can try food from all over the world. You can even have a little caviar and champagne if you’re feeling fancy. If you’re looking for a cosy corner, head to a café, get yourself a nice cup of coffee and a slice of cake, sit back and relax.
So, even when you have a day-long wait at the airport, it doesn’t have to be the experience from hell – by preparing for the worst, you can actually make the best of your situation!
