Let’s face it: travel is a grand adventure, but it’s not always smooth sailing (or flying, as the case may be). One minute you’re sipping a flat white at the airport, dreaming of your destination, and the next you’re staring at a departure board flashing the dreaded word: CANCELLED. Whether it’s wild weather, staff shortages, or a computer system having a meltdown, flight cancellations are a fact of modern travel, especially for those who often have to cross continents just to visit family or take a well-earned holiday.
But what if you could turn a travel disaster into a minor inconvenience or even a mini-holiday? That’s exactly what seasoned travel experts do, and today we’re sharing their best-kept secrets for packing smart and staying comfortable, no matter what the airline throws your way.
According to New York-based travel writer Meagan Drillinger, the secret is all in the packing. Meagan’s been around the globe, and she’s shared her must-pack items to help you stay comfortable, connected, and even a little bit cheerful if your travel plans go pear-shaped.
Install A VPN (If You Can)
If you like to keep in touch with loved ones while you’re away, make sure you keep your phones or tablets fully charged! Also, consider installing a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) on your devices to keep your data safe, especially when using public Wi-Fi at airports or hotels.
Bring Your Passport (Even for Domestic Trips)
This one might sound odd, but Meagan advises always packing your passport, even if it’s only for domestic trips. Why? Because you never know when plans might change.
Maybe you’ll need to reroute through another country, or perhaps you’ll need extra ID for a hotel stay. It’s the one thing you absolutely don’t want to be without when things get confusing.
Snacks That Pack a Punch
Airport food can be expensive, uninspiring, or simply unavailable if you’re stuck after hours. Meagan recommends packing protein bars because they’re filling, easy to pack, and will keep your energy up when you need it most. We’d add a few Aussie classics to the list: a packet of nuts, a muesli bar, or even a sneaky Tim Tam for comfort!
That said, we recommend asking your GP about which foods are safe for you to eat to ensure your safety and well-being while you travel.
Medications: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Always bring extra prescription meds, just in case your trip is extended. Don’t forget over-the-counter essentials like painkillers, antihistamines, or anything else you might need.
It’s much easier to have them on hand than to try to track down a pharmacy in a strange city, or worse, a closed airport.
Power Banks: Stay Charged, Stay Connected
A good power bank is worth its weight in gold when you’re travelling. Airports are notorious for having too few power points, and you don’t want your phone or tablet dying when you need to rebook flights or contact loved ones.
Choose one that’s powerful enough to charge your devices multiple times.
Rest Easy, Anywhere
Delays can mean long hours in noisy, bright terminals. An eye mask and earplugs can help you catch some much-needed shut-eye, so you’re refreshed and ready to go when your flight finally boards.
Also, pack a spare set (or two) of socks and underwear in your carry-on, just in case your delay turns into an overnight stay.
Key Takeaways
- Travel expert Meagan Drillinger recommends bringing your passport on every trip, even for domestic journeys, to be prepared for unexpected changes in travel plans.
- Packing substantial snacks like protein bars and extra prescription medication can help you stay healthy if you get stranded.
- Essential extras such as a power bank, eye mask, earplugs, and spare socks and underwear will help you stay comfortable and make the most of unexpected delays.
Have you ever been stranded by a cancelled flight? What’s your must-have item for travel emergencies? Share your tips and stories in the comments below; we’d love to hear from you!
