3 Travel Secrets that Will Make Any Trip More Pleasant
[Ed. Note: Here at the Daily Reckoning, we strive to bring you a unique and entertaining view of the world of finance. But we also realize that there’s more to this world than money. After all… what good is money if you don’t know how to enjoy it? So as part of our ongoing “Tip of the Day” series — brought to you by our friends at Laissez Faire Today — we’re proud to share this little actionable tip on living a happier, healthier and more enjoyable life than you ever thought possible. Enjoy!]
In a few hours from now, I’ll be heading home to Cincinnati from Baltimore.
Maybe.
There’s a storm headed our way, so my flight may get cancelled.
If it does, I’m going to play it smart.
If and when you’re bumped from a flight, the U.S. Department of Transportation says you deserve compensation.
Here are my personal travel secrets. Some of them might seem obvious, but they make a world of difference if your flight gets cancelled.
First thing I’m doing, as a precaution, is packing light.
One bag.
My laptop. Two changes of clothes. My toothbrush. A book. Some chocolates. (More on why I’m bringing chocolates in a moment.)
That’s it.
The lighter I pack, especially when going home, the better. It might sound simplistic, but it’s often hard not to overpack. We think we need way more than we really do.
I might spend more time than I’d like at the airport. And lugging around a heavy bag will only make the trip worse. And as a rule, I’m going to come home with more than I left with. So I’m leaving some room in that bag.
Second travel secret: If my flight gets cancelled, the airline is going to ask that I get in line and rebook.
Nope. That would be silly.
Instead, I’m going to call my airline immediately. That way, I can skip the herd of people also trying to rebook their flights.
Also, know your rights. If and when you’re bumped from a flight, the U.S. Department of Transportation says you deserve compensation.
Tell the airline you’re aware of this. Then quietly whisper “checkmate” to yourself in discreet congratulations.
If you’re delayed or cancelled, though, it’s a different scenario. So make a good case when you call them. And be polite. It’ll get you a long way.
As soon as their plane was settled, some First Class seats opened up. Like magic. Just for them.
Also, there’s one more travel secret you can take advantage of:
A friend told me a story about his friend’s wife who used to carry chocolates around with her to give to strangers. Maybe she was really into random acts of kindness. I dunno.
One day, they were in an airport and their flight was delayed.
Instead of becoming irate and petty complainers like the rest of the patrons, his wife walked up to the booth and said, “Thank you for trying to figure this out for us. I know you guys are doing your best.”
And she gave them some chocolate.
Can you guess what happened next?
As soon as their plane was settled, some First Class seats opened up. Like magic. Just for them.
Heed these travel secrets and make your holiday travel a little less hectic.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving.
Regards,
Chris Campbell
for The Daily Reckoning
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