With the airlines a bit of a mess right now, here are a few pro tips that will help keep your adventure on track and relieve unnecessary stress. Airlines and airports are facing labor shortages much the same as other sectors of the economy. This is resulting in longer lines, higher than normal delays, and flight cancellations which can be stressful. Savvy travelers always keep the following advice in mind which will help set you up for the best chance of seamless travel:
1) Don’t check your bags
Resist the urge to check bags, even for longer trips. This will help you avoid needing to stand in long check-in queues and lessens the chance of a bag going missing if there is an unexpected change in your connections. The secret to this is to pack as light as possible. If you do lose a checked bag, report it right away to the airline so that you can get a claim in process. Save all of your claim tickets and if you have a picture of your luggage that can help too. Most lost bags will catch up to guests within a few days - even if you are in the middle of the Kalahari Desert in Namibia.
2) Get travel insurance
Protecting yourself with travel insurance is a must. Policies can cover trip delay, trip interruption, lost baggage, and even medical evacuation. Like all insurance, nobody expects to have to need it, but those that get it sure are glad they have it when the unexpected happens. No matter what policy you get, read it carefully so you know what it covers and how to file a claim should something go sideways. Claims can take some time to process and will always require documentation so be sure to save all receipts if it looks like you are going to need to file a claim. We recommend Arch RoamRights Pro Plus policy.
3) Give yourself time
When you are booking your itinerary, consider adding an extra day on the front end of it just to relieve any stress with getting to a destination. This is especially true if you are booking a cruise in the Galapagos or in the Antarctic. Opt for longer connection times wherever possible. Shorter connections are manageable if you only have carry-on luggage (see #1) but building in some extra margin is always a good idea. Traffic, parking, check-in lines, and security lines can all add up and be unexpected. Plan to get to the airport extra early, especially larger airports.
4) Get your airline’s app
Most airlines have their own app that you can download to your phone. These apps are really useful for airlines to push out changing information like delays, and flight changes. It’s always a good idea to have the app on your phone and use it to check in ahead of your flight. This helps you stay in the know since some messages from airlines can wind up in your email’s spam/junk folder.
5) Double-check your flights leading up to the trip
Starting a few weeks out from your trip, keep checking in on your flights. Typically, airlines will notify you of any changes but check anyway. This will help you stay prepared to make adjustments if something changes with your flights or connections. Don’t wait until the day before to find out that your flight to Tanzania leaves 3 hours earlier than planned.
6) Expect hiccups and speedbumps
Change happens! Expect the unexpected! Despite the best-laid plans and preparation, flights can still be delayed or canceled. When this happens, work with the airline to get on the next available flight to your destination. Always work with the airline first before resorting to calling a booking service (like Exito Travel who many of our guests book with). If there are any change fees or re-booking costs, be sure to save your receipts and document everything in case you need to file a travel insurance claim (see #2). If you expect there to be challenges, then you’ll be better prepared for them or pleasantly surprised when everything goes smoothly. After all, the vast majority of flights and passengers don’t encounter flight issues.
7) Be kind, be flexible, and don’t worry (be happy)!
Pro travelers already are, but it’s worth being reminded. While we may not have control over some things, we can always choose how we react when life throws us a curve ball. Empathize with the workers who are showing up and shouldering extra work right now - they are just trying to help you get to where you are going. Smile, have a snack, relax, be patient and trust that you will (eventually) get to your destination, even if it is on the other side of the planet I’m looking at you, Madagascar!
Reach out if you have questions!
Your friendly safari expert,
