What to Take on a Flight to Make Sure You're Prepared if Stranded

Some of you may remember the nightmare flight I had a few months ago. Combine that with the fact that we'll soon be jetting to Disney, I found Smart Money's piece on surviving flight delays interesting. In particular, I liked their list of items we should take in carry-on bags assuming we'd be separated from our regular bags for 24 hours. Their list:

• List of important numbers. Include the toll-free reservations line of the airlines you're traveling — and their competitors that fly to your destination. Having rebooking options for the gate agent can only smooth the process, says Trippler.
• Copy of your airline's contract of carriage. Stressed-out gate agents won't always volunteer everything that you're entitled to when a problem strikes, says Abrams. This document outlines your rights in case of an involuntary bump or cancelled flight, including the almighty Rule 240, which requires the airline to book you on the next available flight, regardless of class or airline.
• Cellphone charger
• Medications
• Basic toiletries
• Items to pass the time, including a blanket, snacks and entertainment.

I printed out a copy of the article for my wife. She's all over stuff like this -- and usually thinks of several other useful items we'll need. Needless to say, we'll be well-stocked in case of delay (though I hope we don't have to test that opinion.) ;-)

Comments

[Megan]

We were recently laid over in Atlanta and had to stay over-night. It was horrible because we didn't plan enough ahead - the airport was freezing and we were in shorts/t-shirts - so small pillows (our laptop bag had to do) and blankets would've been nice. We did think of extra clothes and books though. I'm surprised they didn't add clothes to the list above. We just took new shirts/underwear and just wore our jeans again.

We did think about toiletries - but they have to be 3 oz. or smaller (even my mascara was "flagged") and in a ziploc bag - so we had to put out deodorant/toothpaste back into our regular luggage.

Good luck! It's no fun being stranded.

[plonkee]

I was just about to say, be careful of the amounts of liquids you try to take on a plane.

I too would suggest taking some clothes especially underwear if there is any possibility at all that you might be stranded.