✨ 5 ways to expect the unexpected on your vacation
✨ 5 ways to expect the unexpected on your vacation
Also - inspired Easter Basket ideas for theme park fans
The importance of staying nimble
This week I ran into a common travel snag. My 2 hour flight was delayed by over 3 hours. Getting home at midnight was not the preferred option but that's just what was going to happen.
Luckily the airline - and my favorite travel app, TripIt - sent me notifications hours in advance. A few clicks on the airline app and I had 3 other possible flights that could get me home earlier.
No doubt, it was a hassle. We really weren't ready to get on an earlier flight, but because there was enough notice we made it work. The flight change was easy - literally just a few taps on the app & we had seats and new boarding passes. And we got home before midnight!
Travel is of course all about the unexpected. Mostly in a good way 😎 but sometimes not. A challenge, or an opportunity, can become just a minor speed bump when you stay nimble and ready to go into action.
5 ways to expect the unexpected on your next trip
Get familiar with your airline's app
Give the app permission to send you all notifications. Know your login or save your credentials in your phone, and be sure to have all the resources to purchase a new ticket through the app - even if it's just switching from one flight to another you may need to verify frequent flier numbers or pay a change fee.
The app is way more efficient than standing in line or calling a hotline. You can follow up at an airport desk, call, or email the airline later to discuss fee refunds or other issues.
Think about Plan B options, and discuss the possibility with your companions
Brainstorm with your travel buddies about what you'll do if it pours rain the whole time, or if your flight's delayed, or someone gets sick.
Build a slush-fund into your budget
Have a little wiggle room in case an opportunity presents itself. Maybe it's an amazing restaurant you found out about from the guy on the monorail. Maybe you really need to buy Genie+ today, or pay for Uber instead of waiting for the bus.
Insure your trip
Let the insurance company cover the big what-ifs. Travel insurance can reimburse you if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip, take care of emergency medical expenses, and even provide funds to buy clothes if your luggage is delayed. Ask your travel agent or local AAA office about a policy that covers all these things, or buy it directly from a carrier like TravelGuard or Allianz.
Stay healthy before you go
The week before your big vacation is probably not the best time to take up skateboarding. Be mindful of what's on the calendar before your trip so you can minimize the risk of getting sick or hurt. If you just can't help yourself, see the previous tip. 👆
Is the Easter bunny bringing a theme park vacation to your house?
Whether it's a big trip reveal, or just a fun theme related to your upcoming vacation - or you'll ACTUALLY be at the park on Easter! - I've got loads of ideas to help you fill that basket.
From Disney Parks coffee to toys and tees, check out these posts for all my theme park related Easter basket ideas:
PLUS, don't miss the sale this weekend in my TeePublic shop! You'll find Disney & Universal inspired tees, phone cases, mugs, and tons more - all up to 35% off. Click here to check it out.