Winter weather can often disrupt air travel (remember what happened over the holidays with airline cancellations and delays). Some disruptions are out of a traveler’s control, but there are steps that you can take proactively to help ensure a smooth travel experience.

AAA offers these tips for travelers:

• Check your airline’s website or download their app to keep up-to-date on your flight status, including one last time right before you leave for the airport. Sign up for text alerts for your individual flight. Check these options before calling their customer service number, which may result in a long wait time.
• Travelers should always check their flight status before heading to the airport.
• Work with a knowledgeable travel advisor when booking your trip. They’ll serve as your advocate in case your flight is delayed or canceled, and they can help with any last-minute travel plans. They may be able to help find an alternate flight to avoid disruption of your travel plans. AAA experts are on standby to assist.
• Consider flight travel insurance but read the fine print in advance to understand what it covers. 
• Know your rights as an air passenger and review your airline’s contract of carriage for information on their policies for flight delays, cancellations, and rebooking. By law, travelers are entitled to a refund when an airline cancels their flight.
• Don’t book more than one flight. Duplicate bookings will not only cost the consumer a non-refundable ticket, but also could cause both flights to cancel. Many carriers have algorithms in place to spot dupes and cancel both itineraries which could leave them with no flights at all.
• Be sure to include all medications, snacks, and a change of clothes in a carry-on bag in case your flight is canceled after you’ve already checked your baggage. If possible, pack lightly and avoid checking a bag – that way if your flight is changed, you’ll have your belongings with you.
• If travelers encounter a problem that cannot be resolved by their airline, they may wish to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation or FAA. For more information, click here. 

Remember, AAA is here for you before, during, and after your trip! To learn more, visit:

AAA Travel