Few things can derail travel plans faster than a delayed flight. Whether you’re on your way to an exciting vacation or heading home after a long trip, sitting in an airport watching the clock tick by can feel frustrating and stressful. But delays don’t have to ruin your day. With the right mindset and a few smart moves, you can turn an inconvenience into just a minor bump in the journey. Here’s what to do if your flight is delayed…
Confirm the Delay
The first step is to make sure the delay is real and not just a temporary change. Airlines sometimes update their schedules multiple times within an hour, so it’s worth checking more than one source. Look at the airport departure board, refresh the airline’s website or app, and check a flight-tracking app. Once you know the actual timeline, you can decide how best to handle the situation.
Understand Your Rights
Knowing what you’re entitled to can take some of the stress out of a delay. In the United States, airlines are not required by law to offer compensation, but many will provide meal vouchers or the option to rebook if the wait is long. In Europe, compensation laws are stricter, with travelers eligible for a flight refund if their flight is delayed more than three hours, unless the delay is caused by extraordinary circumstances. Other countries may have their own passenger protection rules, so it’s always worth asking the staff at your gate, calling customer service, or checking sites like AirHelp to see what support is available.
Stay in Contact with the Airline
When dozens of passengers are scrambling for answers at the same time, standing in line at the gate may not be your best option. Try to reach the airline through several channels at once. Calling customer service while you wait in line, using the chat feature in the airline’s app, or even sending a quick message on social media can sometimes get you faster results. Being proactive and exploring multiple avenues increases your chances of being rebooked quickly.
Explore Alternative Flights
If your delay looks significant, ask about switching to another route. Airlines may be able to reroute you through a different city to help you reach your destination faster. On international trips, it’s also worth checking if a partner airline can get you there sooner. Flexibility in your travel plans can save hours of waiting and help you salvage your itinerary.
Make Yourself Comfortable
Sometimes delays are unavoidable, so the best thing you can do is settle in. Grab a snack or a meal, and keep the receipt in case you can be reimbursed. Look for a quiet area of the airport where you can relax, read, or catch up on a show. If the delay stretches overnight, ask if the airline offers hotel vouchers or discounts on nearby accommodations. A little preparation can make the experience less stressful. As someone who has spent long layovers in airports, it’s always good to have a couple of shows, movies, and music playlists downloaded on your phone in case the Wi-Fi is slow.
Take Care of Yourself
Long delays can take a toll physically and mentally. Drink plenty of water, stretch your legs, and give yourself mental breaks to keep your energy up. Download a podcast, start a journal entry, or call a friend. Taking care of yourself during the wait can keep frustration at bay and help the hours pass more easily.
Review Your Travel Insurance
If you purchased travel insurance, now is the time to pull out your policy. Many plans cover extra expenses like meals, hotels, or even missed connections caused by delays. Be sure to save all your boarding passes, receipts, and any written confirmation of the delay so you have the documentation needed to file a claim. It’s always good to read the travel insurance ahead of time so you know exactly what is needed to file a claim.
Reframe the Experience
Although it’s easy to dwell on the inconvenience, shifting your mindset can make a big difference. Some airports have lounges, art exhibits, transit tours, or even spas where you can spend time. Others offer cultural displays, play areas for kids, or quiet zones for resting. Instead of focusing on the lost time, think of it as a pause in your trip where you can reset, catch your breath, or even discover a hidden corner of the airport you would have otherwise missed. During a long layover in Qatar, I got to explore their indoor park which is full of trees and a waterfall!
Final Thoughts
Flight delays are never ideal, but with patience, preparation, and a little creativity, they don’t have to derail your journey. By confirming the delay, knowing your rights, staying proactive, and caring for yourself while you wait, you can keep a frustrating situation from taking over your trip. Travel will always come with surprises, but delays are just detours—the adventure is still waiting when you land.
Do you have any tips on what to do if your flight is delayed? Share in the comments.
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Michelle Della Giovanna
Writer at Full Time Explorer
I’m just your average New Yorker who quit her job in the fashion industry to explore the world. Come find out what it’s like to trade in five-inch heels for squat toilets.
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