Sometimes the very things that give us travel stress can show themselves regardless of the great planning we do. We know, we know! It seems that no matter how hard you try, some sort of issue rears its ugly head just when you think you’ve got it covered. We’ve heard them all and perhaps we can give you some friendly tips to overcome those pesky problems while you are out exploring the world.
Luggage is lost…
It’s the number one concern of travelers! We understand! While you can’t control your bag once it has been sent off on the conveyor belt, you can track it independently. Our solution?
- Use airtags! We’ve solved problem after problem with airtags and a change of clothes in our carryon to get us through.
- Do not leave baggage claim without filing your lost luggage claim! Do not! Europe is very different than the US in this respect. They do not have airline specific bag counters. Instead each airport has one dedicated counter.
- After you leave with your claim number, look around the arrivals terminal and locate the phone kiosk that you need to use when retrieving your bag.
Plane is delayed…
If there is one thing you do to help yourself, please, please, please be sure to download your airline’s app and create an account to link your ticket. Please. We can not explain the benefits of linking your ticket directly with the airline. Consider it a free VIP pass only for the things that go wrong!
Trains are on strike…
The most common strike we see is the train strike. It usually comes in the middle of the week during the very high travel season to make things inconvenient but not impossible. Strikes are very organized in Europe and, often, these issues resolve themselves within a day as permitted strikes can sometimes last just a few hours. So what do you need to worry about?
- First, get rebooked. This is easiest if you are connected to the train app in the area that you are traveling. It also helps if you’ve booked directly with them to begin with. Third party apps can really limit your choices here.
- Once that’s taken care of, secure those accommodations for one extra night if you have to. It may not be exactly what you planned but, roll with it! You’ve chosen a great destination! Last, call ahead to your next destination to let them know you will be late, you may just get comp’ed for being courteous!
Venue is closed…
It happens! Rome is primping for the jubilee, Rome was under construction for the Olympics and Europe is in a constant state of renovation. The reality of travel is that Europe does not plan its renewals and refurbishments based on what people have planned. The most common issue is that outside facades are covered in scaffolding which may not be lovely to look at but it doesn’t take away from the experience inside. Most closures can be identified if you look into pre-booking on direct sites. If there is renovation that impedes your visit, take a moment and see if there are temporary hours to make up for it.
Rain is coming…
Take care of rainy days by thinking about your indoor choices. If you buy city passes or museum passes, this can make your scheduling a lot more flexible. Still stuck outside, buy a cute umbrella and go puddle jumping! Additionally, keep a cool day trip in your back pocket that can be just far enough to skirt the weather! Finally, take am moment and see if bad weather isn’t your sign to kick back and take a break! That’s okay!