How to Tackle Frequent Flier Pitfalls

As business travelers, all of us would like to get to our destinations as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Via Her has identified the most common complaints of women business travelers and suggests ways and means to either avoid or tackle them.

Complaint 1: The Airline Lost/Damaged My Luggage

Airlines sometimes misplace your checked-in baggage. This often happens when you have to take connecting flights to your destination. While in most cases, the airline locates your luggage and returns it to you, managing with the few clothes and essentials you may have in your carry-on is a bother.

• Avoid checking in luggage if you can manage with just a carry-on.
• Ensure your luggage is clearly marked and easily identifiable.
• Place luggage tags not only outside, but inside the suitcase as well.
• Use TSA-approved luggage locks.
• Remove old airline tags and labels to avoid any confusion.
• Use sturdy, durable luggage that will not sag or rip in transit.
• Avoid flights with short connection times.
• Ensure that your carry-on has essentials (medicines and a few clothes).

Tackle it:

• Inquire about your rights with the airlines and your travel insurance. In most cases, you will be compensated for the delay in getting your luggage.

Complaint 2: My Flight Has Been Delayed/Canceled

Flights are often canceled or delayed for a number of reasons—weather, air traffic congestion, technical problems etc.

• Find out about the status of your flight before you leave for the airport. This could save you an unnecessary wait.
• Subscribe to receive your flight status by email or text message.

Tackle it:

• Check with the airline immediately about rescheduling you on the next flight, while at the same time, calling your travel reservation center (it might save you time instead of standing in line).
• Inquire about compensation from the airline. Note that circumstances outside of the airline’s control (weather, etc) are usually not covered.
• Reschedule your business meetings.

Complaint 3: My Car Service is Not Waiting for Me at the Airport as Expected

If your flight has been delayed, the car serviced you arranged may not be waiting for you at the airport.

• Ensure that you give the car reservation center or hotel your flight information at the time of booking so they can keep track of any delays.
• Call the reservation center prior to takeoff if you know that your flight will be late.

Tackle it:

• Make use of the pre-paid cab services that are available at most airports.

Complaint 4: My Hotel/Flight Has Been Overbooked

Airlines often overbook flights. According to D.O.T. statistics, last year, 1.16 of every 10,000 passengers lost their seats due to overbooking. Although the number may appear small, it can happen to any of us.

• Use online check-in whenever possible.
• Ensure that you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight for an international flight or 2 hours for a domestic flight.
• Try to obtain a seat number at the time of booking.

Tackle it:

• If you cannot board your flight, immediately secure a seat on the next flight by checking with the airline personnel at the airport and at the same time, calling your travel reservation desk to see if they can book you on another airline.
• Reschedule your meetings.

Complaint 5: There is a Problem with My Passport

To avoid hassles related to travel documentation or customs that could jeopardize your entire schedule:

• Always check beforehand about necessary travel documentation and ensure you are carrying all required documents (passport, visa, travel vaccinations etc.)
• Check the country’s consulate for customs restrictions and regulations. Also, check with your country’s government website for travel warnings.
• Verify your passport validity dates and make sure that you have enough pages for additional visas or stamps.
• Resist the temptation to pick up souvenirs that might cause a problem with customs when you return.

Complaint 6: Jet Lag is Such a Nag

Jet lag is a problem for most travelers who traverse the globe. Although you may not be able to beat it entirely, there are still a few things you can do:

• During your flight, stretch your legs frequently.
• Keep well hydrated during your flight by drinking a lot of water. Avoid alcohol or caffeine.
• Try to pick a flight that arrives early in the evening and stay up until 10 pm at least.
• Set your watch to your destination’s time as soon as possible (when you board your flight).
• Catch up on your sleep but avoid sleep medication as it does not allow your body to adjust to a new sleeping pattern.
• Try to give yourself some recovery time by flying a day ahead of your meeting.
• Expose yourself to sunlight and social interaction as soon as you arrive rather than hide away in a dimly lit hotel room right away.

Complaint 7: Clearing Security Really Tests my Patience

Airport security is growing tighter everyday. In addition, security measures and procedures differ from country to country. Here’s how you can clear security quicker:

• Ensure that your carry-on luggage is TSA compliant (check the website for regulations).
• Pack efficiently so that you have easy access to your laptop and make sure all liquid items are in 3 oz bottles in see-through (Ziploc) bags.
• Check in your scissors, razors, pen knives, or any other sharp items.
• If you are traveling through the US, the Clear Card is a good idea to help you breeze through security.

While it may not be possible to completely avoid travel hiccups, remember that simple precautions can go a long way in avoiding a potential travel nightmare.