Sometimes problems can crop up, delays happen and flights can be completely cancelled.
Travel isn’t always predictable, especially when weather, staffing issues and unreliable technology comes into play.
But one expert has shared what items she makes sure to always pack to make things as smooth as possible if her flight is cancelled.
For New York based travel writer Meagan Drillinger, her laptop is the number one thing she brings along on her travels, she reveals in Business Insider.
The piece of tech, equipped with a decent VPN, is essential for Meagan even if the trip is supposed to be a break from her work.
A laptop can come in handy if things go wrong and offers ‘time, flexibility, and options’, Meagan writes.
Holidaymakers who become stranded on a trip could easily work from their location, if the delays mean they won’t make it home on time.
Or the device can be useful for contacting people – family, friends, employers – if needed too.
For New York based travel writer Meagan Drillinger, her laptop is the number one thing she brings along on her travels, she reveals in Business Insider (stock)
Meagan makes sure to pack her passport, even if she’s not going abroad.
She likes to be prepared for a change in plans, however drastic they might be, and says it is one thing you ‘absolutely don’t want to be without when things stop making sense’.
Snacks are good to bring along too, especially ones that are substantial and provide some energy.
Meagan recommends protein bars because they will ‘keep you steady enough’ to deal with the travel chaos when airport restaurants might be closed.
Extra supplies of prescriptions are important to bring along in case you overstay as well as medication like painkillers.
Another item, though it might not seem like an obvious one, that the travel writer always packs is a swimsuit.
Meagan argues that going for a swim can be ‘a grounding experience’ during stress times.
If you end up stranded at a hotel with a pool or nearby beach, at least you can enjoy it while you wait for your flight.
Meagan also makes sure to pack her passport, even if she’s not going abroad (stock)
Smaller items, like battery power banks, an eye mask and earplugs are also on Meagan’s must-pack list.
Power banks that are strong enough to charge larger devices are vital when travelling, especially if you end up stranded in an airport with minimal plug sockets.
Meanwhile, eye masks and earplugs will allow you to get much-needed rest while you wait for your next flight.
Spare socks and underwear are also important, as sometimes cancellation issues can stretch out for days.
