The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for air travel, and with increased demand comes the inevitable risk of flight delays. Whether due to weather conditions, overcrowded airports, or last-minute schedule changes, flight delays can disrupt your plans and cause unnecessary stress. However, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of delays and enjoy a smoother travel experience. Here are the top 10 tips to help you avoid flight delays this holiday season.
1. Book Early Morning Flights
One of the best ways to reduce the risk of delays is to book early morning flights. Flights departing between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. are less likely to experience delays because the day’s schedule hasn’t had time to back up. As the day progresses, flights tend to be delayed due to accumulated issues, such as late arrivals or weather changes.
2. Avoid Peak Travel Days
The holiday season is known for certain peak travel days that are notorious for long lines and crowded airports. Avoid flying on the busiest days, such as the day before Thanksgiving, December 23, and January 2. Instead, try to book flights on less popular days, like two or three days before major holidays, to dodge the chaos.
For more details on peak travel days, check out Travel + Leisure’s guide to the best and worst times to fly.
3. Choose Nonstop Flights
When booking your flight, opt for nonstop routes whenever possible. Connecting flights increase the risk of delays because any disruption at your layover airport could affect your entire journey. Nonstop flights reduce this risk and get you to your destination faster, even if they may be slightly more expensive.
4. Fly Into Secondary Airports
Major airports are often more crowded during the holidays, increasing the chances of delays. Consider flying into secondary airports that serve your destination but experience lower traffic. For example, if you’re flying to New York, try LaGuardia (LGA) instead of JFK, or choose Oakland (OAK) over San Francisco (SFO).
Smaller airports generally have shorter security lines and fewer delays, making your overall travel experience smoother.
5. Check the Weather in Advance
Weather is one of the most common causes of flight delays, especially during winter holidays. Before you travel, check the weather forecast for both your departure city and arrival destination. If there’s a significant storm expected, consider changing your travel plans to avoid delays.
Airlines often allow passengers to change flights free of charge when weather disruptions are likely. Keeping an eye on weather forecasts can help you adjust your schedule proactively.
6. Arrive Early at the Airport
Holiday travel comes with longer lines at security checkpoints, check-in counters, and boarding gates. To avoid last-minute stress and potential delays, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international flights. This will give you enough time to handle unexpected situations like long lines or gate changes.
7. Download the Airline’s Mobile App
Most airlines offer mobile apps that provide real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and delays. Download your airline’s app before your trip and enable notifications to stay informed throughout your journey. This way, you can quickly react to any changes and avoid unnecessary waiting at the airport.
For example, apps from Delta, American Airlines, and United all offer push notifications for delays and gate changes, helping you stay on top of things.
8. Consider Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can be a lifesaver if your flight gets delayed or canceled. Many travel insurance policies cover the costs of flight delays, accommodation, and rebooking fees. This can provide peace of mind, especially during the holiday season when flight disruptions are more common.
Consider purchasing a policy from a trusted provider like Allianz or Travel Guard before your trip. Some credit card companies also offer built-in travel insurance, so check with your card provider to see if you’re already covered.
9. Take Advantage of Airport Lounges
If your flight does get delayed, having access to an airport lounge can make your wait more comfortable. Many lounges offer free Wi-Fi, snacks, and comfortable seating, allowing you to relax while waiting for updates. You can gain access to lounges through membership programs, day passes, or by using premium credit cards like the American Express Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve.
For frequent travelers, a lounge membership is a great investment, particularly during the hectic holiday season.
10. Know Your Passenger Rights
In case your flight is delayed or canceled, it’s important to know your passenger rights. Under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s rules, airlines must offer assistance in certain situations, such as providing food vouchers or hotel accommodations for significant delays or cancellations that are within the airline’s control.
For international flights, European Union regulations (EU261) offer even more robust protections, including compensation for long delays. Familiarizing yourself with these rules can help you negotiate better solutions with airlines if you encounter delays.
Conclusion
While flight delays can be frustrating, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the risk and stay prepared during the holiday season. By booking early morning flights, avoiding peak travel days, and staying informed with airline apps, you can ensure a smoother, more stress-free journey. Follow these tips to minimize the chances of a delay and enjoy a more relaxing holiday travel experience.