Skip to main content
Personal finance

Airport delays don’t have to cost you

bigstock-United-Airlines-Airplanes-Los-129435785

One of my husband’s super powers is that no matter where we are, or how short a line may look, once he picks it, something will happen and we end up waiting. Waiting a very LONG time.

Which is ironic, because he doesn’t like to sit still.

His super power may extend to his travels.

Every other week he heads to the airport, and no matter the airline or time he selects to travel, inevitably his flights experience delays of two, sometimes even three hours.

If he’s not waiting at the gate to board, he’s stuck on the runway.

It hasn’t been all frustration. By giving up his seat for later flights, we’ve scored quite a few airline vouchers over the past year. His ability to maintain a positive attitude every time he steps foot in an airport is impressive.

There’s another problem about travel delays: they can be expensive. Whether you head to the airport bar or check out the fancy new airport shops, chances are, you’re spending money while you wait.

Here are a few of my husband’s tips on how he makes the most of delays.

Pack your own snacks: Hubby heads to Costco and buys a variety of individually wrapped dry snacks, including trail mix, pretzels, crackers, and Belvita or Milano cookies. Whatever you do, don’t fall for the airport convenience store trap, because you’ll pay dearly for that “convenience.” Make sure you also have other necessities, including gum or over-the-counter medication.

Pack an empty water bottle: Most airports have water refilling stations at water fountains. Save yourself the $5 to $7 bottle of not-so-“smart water” and refill your own.

Download early: Have your podcasts, books and Netflix movies all downloaded before you get to the airport. When they announce a delay, you are ready to dive into your favorite escape without diving into your wallet.

Negotiate vouchers: Have the flexibility to give up your seat? Prepare for a sweet deal. The secret to vouches is to never accept the first offer. That’s right, you can counteroffer, and you have nothing to lose by doing so. My husband has become so skilled at voucher negotiations, last year we scored $2,100 worth of vouchers!