Travel with ease this winter

Thursday, February 6, 2014, 12:42 PM -

The weather outside has been frightful this winter, but perhaps no less delightful than at the nation's airports where storm systems have forced the cancellation of sometimes thousands of flights in a single day. 

The snow, ice and freezing cold can lead to frustrated travellers trying to get from point A to point B, and frazzled airline employees trying to help them. 

But there are things travellers can do to help themselves, and perhaps stay ahead of the pack. 

GETTING AWAY?: Be sure to check your Airport Forecast before heading out!

Plan ahead 

Before heading to the airport to wait it out with the weather-stranded masses, check if airlines are offering waivers of their change fees, and re-book a flight for free. You're better off doing this as soon as the weather starts to look dicey, so you can grab a seat on a flight that will depart sooner rather than later. 

If you're already at the airport, work multiple channels, including an airline's app, Twitter feed, and phone lines. 

It may be worth it to spend the money for a one day pass to an airport lounge, both for your own comfort and for better access to customer service reps. 

Travel with a battery pack for your smartphone so you're not fighting for outlet access. 

Remember, the best travellers are those that think and prepare ahead.

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