Expert shares how to manage flight delays and cancellations
Share
The May bank holiday is set to be a busy travel weekend, however strike action at Heathrow Airport may cause disruption for thousands of travel goers.
Experts at multi-centre holiday specialists, eShores, share their tips for five ways to deal with flight delays and cancellations in stressful situations.
1. Stay hydrated and fed
Staying hydrated is essential if stress levels are high, drinking water can be soothing and our body benefits from the added hydration.
If you have a long delay, it is also important to stay fed. Certain foods such as dark chocolate, almonds and blueberries are proven to help reduce anxiety and stress.
Depending on the amount of time you’re going to be delayed, it could be worth while paying for airport lounge access.
2. Keeping the kids entertained
Having plenty of activities to keep children entertained in the event of a delay is essential. Interactive games are a great way of keeping children engaged, so it’s beneficial to invest in some travel sized games that your child can play to keep them entertained and stimulated.
TikTok users Bri and Liz from @ourtravelingtots keep their kids entertained in airports by using an airport iSpy game. They created some flash cards featuring each letter of the alphabet and corresponding images of typical things found in an airport. To make them travel friendly, print out the images, laminate them and secure them together so they can be easily cared for and cleaned. This is a great idea for keeping children entertained whether you are delayed or not.
3. Take a moment for yourself
If you are travelling alone or with a partner, your flight delay may be a chance to just take a moment to unwind. Often travelling through an airport can be a busy and stressful experience.
It’s important to do something that feels good for you – this could be reading a book, journalling, or walking around to stretch your legs.
4. Stay comfortable
You could be sat for long periods of time so ensure you’re sat comfortably with back support, if possible. Make sure you bring layers to add on or remove as needed, as airports can typically be cold.
If you’re delayed overnight, it might be worth checking into an airport hotel so you can shower and sleep comfortably.
5. Utilise travel essentials
If you plan to catch up on sleep during your delay, travel essentials such as an eye mask, travel pillow and noise cancelling headphones can be crucial.
Having tech items such as portable chargers for your phone as well having your airline’s app can also prove to be useful should you need to access information digitally.
To discover more travel inspiration, information, or to book your next holiday, visit eShores.
