Travel Time Etiquette

​Now is the season for travel.  That means a lot of opportunities for things to get a little hairy, particularly when bad weather or airplane/train malfunctions slow down travel.  So how do I keep my cool when travel slows behind my anticipated pace?

One of the most important things I have found to help at lease keep me up to the minute in air travel is using an app.  For example, United's travel updates can be sent by text or by email (www.united.com for details).  They are very helpful to let me know the status of my flights. Amtrak also does a nice job of alerting me to train delays (www.amtrak.com).  Updates to apps come fast (often faster than to gate agents) and really will keep you informed of any travel hiccups and as we know information is power so you can plan. 

Additionally, I always have work to do. We treat waiting as a bad thing these days. To combat the feeling of idling, I always have a book or something to work on when I travel (both things in hard copy and electronic just in case power supply is limited). That means even delays don't derail me too badly. I also always have extra batteries for all my electronics.  Airports are better now about plugs but it's nice to have additional batteries so you are not frazzled about losing contact with folks who you need to keep updated.  Other extras you may like are headphones, glasses, gum, and toiletries.  I keep all these items in one place in my carryon so I do not lose them or have to go through a big suitcase to get them.

When finally on the plane or bus, my husband likes to turn on the air vent on high. I like that because the cooling effect can literally calm you down if you have been through a harried travel delay.  Just try it - it's hard to be steamed when you have a cool breeze on you.

Lastly, I always travel comfortably. I try to plan layers of clothes so it's not too hot or too cold.  I also like comfortable clothes so it's not my too tight collar or high heels that makes me irritable.  I have put a few pictures here of some of my favorite travel fashion and accessories.  Just click on the pictures to be taken to the products directly. 

Why do these things even matter for travel etiquette?  It's important not to be late to events where your host has spent a lot of time preparing their home and often big meals.  We want to be as courteous as possible to those that are graciously hosting us and alert them as soon as we can to delays.  Thus it's important to have cell phones at the ready.  Additionally, these little website tricks will help you stay away from the ticket counters that are often filled with folks that really are facing some really bad travel crises. When I get the alerts I can update my hosts or hotel. Information at my fingertips makes me more calm about the travel and I generally have a better disposition when I am informed. Also, travel delays are not usually the fault of anyone - most often it's weather - so keeping calm is really the best way to address tough travel delays. It makes others want to help you when you are the calm one rather than the screaming one in the line.

Wishing you a fantastic travel season and may your planes, trains, and automobiles be on time!

​Click on the pictures below to be taken directly to my favorite travel looks and products!