What occurs when a vacation experiences a missed flight or cancellation? Allow me to describe the scenario. In early summer, my family spent an enjoyable week at Disney World in Orlando. Exhausted and eager to return home, we boarded our flight, which had been delayed slightly due to runway traffic. As we settled in, a massive storm rolled in and lingered over the airport, moving very slowly.
The airline deemed it unsafe to take off and instructed us to wait on the plane. The storm persisted for two hours, adding to the half-hour delay we already had for our connecting flight, which had a two-hour layover. We already knew we would miss it.
As we arrived at our connecting airport, my husband checked his phone and discovered that the next flight to our destination would not depart for another 24 hours. This put a damper on our spirits since we were already exhausted from the trip and eager to return home. Moreover, we had two kids who were old enough to understand the situation and wanted to sleep in their own beds.
We panicked at the prospect of staying overnight in a large city without any plans. We explored different options, such as renting a car (which would have entailed a six-hour drive and it was already late) or taking a bus. After researching, we concluded that the best course of action was to spend the night and wait for the next flight. Here’s how we managed to turn the situation into a happier memory and another adventure.
Don’t yell at the ticket counter with a missed flight
Take some deep breaths and talk to the attendant about any possible solutions. This is frustrating for many people, but they honestly would like to help you, especially if you are not being rude.
As soon as your flight change/cancellation occurs, contact the airline or desk attendant. Keep in mind the change does not effect just you, but many other people as well. Find out your options and regroup. You will get to your destination eventually and there is a solution. I personally would rather remember a situation where I didn’t cause a huge headache for someone else.
Book Using the Chase Credit Card
When researching for our Disney trip, we were trying to figure out ways to save money and came across the Chase Credit Card. This card allowed us to book our flights with credits we earned from meeting a spending limit when we first got the card.
Because we used the card to book the flight, we got insurance for our trip. The credit card company paid for our expenses while we were stuck including a hotel room and food as long as we kept the receipts.
We ended up finding a hotel nearby that had free shuttles to the airport and room for us that night with short notice. They also allowed us to have a late check out and hang out in the lobby until our flight the next day. I cannot recommend this card enough as it was a lifesaver.
Explore the area
Oddly, our connecting flight from Orlando was in Philadelphia on the way to Virginia (airlines are weird). My husband and I have been to Philadelphia a few times but our kids had never been there.
If you are not completely exhausted, this is a great chance to check out a new area! Check out the local scene and historical attractions if you have a chance and it’s almost like getting another vacation.
Find a hotel that understands a missed flight
The hotel we found clearly dealt with this situation all the time. We decided to leave our bags with the airport and just take our carry on luggage with us to the hotel. There were no toothbrushes or toothpaste on us, but the hotel had plenty for us to have for free.
This hotel allowed a late checkout and we were able to hang around the lobby until our shuttle to the flight. We were able to just relax in the lounge area downstairs and watch television with the kids.
There were also tables in the lobby so we were even able to order a pizza before our flight. It was an ideal situation and we were never stranded.
Make small things fun
To get out of the hotel, my husband saw that there was a Wawa gas station about a quarter of a mile away. We decided to go there and get the kids a special treat and get a little sunshine.
As we walked, we got a little Vitamin D and were able to see the Philadelphia skyline. The kids enjoyed getting out of the hotel as much as we did and didn’t seem to mind a walk. We took pictures on the way and some when we were in the store.
Explore the airport
When it was closer to our flight, we took the free shuttle back to the airport to make sure we were there in time. That meant we had about two hours to kill when we got inside. I have a hard time sitting that long, so I walked around the airport and got some steps in.
As I walked I saw a kids play area, a mural and even a member of the Philadelphia Eagles! But I could tell he didn’t want to be bothered. I even checked out a pretzel stand and the food court. It was enough to keep me busy and I was able to get some movement in. All airports are so different, so it’s nice to be able to explore when you can.
Embrace a missed flight as a memorable experience
Life often presents us with circumstances beyond our control. When we fly, our itinerary is no longer under our control. I’ve discovered that becoming agitated accomplishes nothing and only results in an unpleasant experience.
Instead, attempt to view this alteration of plans as an opportunity for an adventure! Discover something novel and relinquish the desire to be in control. My family has created cherished memories of this unplanned layover, and that is what we truly want to achieve during a vacation.
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