In just a short week, we will be packing our things and headed to Phoenix for some education, networking and some good ol’ sunshine! This past week has shown us what can happen when the weather turns and airlines scramble to get their flights off the ground. Here are a few tips you can employ to make your journey as easy as possible:

• Utilize your technology: Be sure to download your airline’s app so you can get the most recent updates as they occur. You will normally see delays on your phone before they put it up on the monitor. If you do have a cancellation, don’t just wait in the customer service line, call them as well and remain on hold and get help with whichever comes first.
• Two additional apps to download: My TSA and Flight Aware are two great apps that will give you a heads-up on what to expect at the airport. My TSA will give you the wait time at the security line of the airport you are departing and you can use Flight Aware to track your incoming flight in case there is a delay getting to your gate. I also like Flightradar24. If you log on to your airplane Wi-Fi, you can track your flight across the country and identify landmarks.

• Charge devices: Ensure that your electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are fully charged before your flight. Delays may occur, and having a charged device can keep you entertained. A battery pack is also a good idea in case an outlet isn’t available.
• Check the weather forecast: Stay updated on the weather conditions for both your departure and destination airports. This will help you anticipate any delays or disruptions before you leave your home.
• Give yourself plenty of time: I normally leave home two hours before my flight. But in the winter, I would recommend two and a half to three hours at least, just in case there are any disruptions along the way.
• Pack accordingly: Arizona can also be cold in the mornings and evenings. Bring a good light jacket and some sweaters.
• Carry essentials in your carry-on: Pack important items, such as medications, travel documents, and an extra change of clothes, in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is delayed. You can also check your My TSA app for items that are not allowed to be carried on.
• Keep snacks and water: Pack snacks and an empty water bottle to stay hydrated during the flight. Airports are also notorious for charging high prices for food and water bottles.
• Be patient and flexible: This can be difficult but just know you will get through this one way or another. Winter weather can be unpredictable, leading to changes in schedules. Stay patient, be flexible with your plans, and have a backup plan in case of disruptions.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on airline announcements, social media and news updates for any changes or important information related to your flight.

And finally, what you should know if you get bumped from your flight. For domestic flights in the U.S., airlines have to pay you 200% of the value of your one-way ticket up to $775 if you arrive at your destination one to two hours past your originally scheduled itinerary or 400% of the one-way ticket price, up to $1,550 if your arrival delay is longer than two hours. This doesn’t pertain to weather delays but only if they overbooked their flight and gave your seat to someone else. 

Safe travels and enjoy your time in Phoenix!