As travellers passing through Denver and London airports these days know all too well, flights during this busy holiday season can be delayed by blizzards, fog and a host of other snafus. The Boy Scout mantra -- "Be Prepared" -- is invaluable for making the best of an uncomfortable airport situation. Here, then, are some flight-delay tips from Access America, a travel insurance provider:
1. Get to the airport with plenty of time to check in and get through security.
2. Pack snacks, diapers and entertainment for your children. Their initial excitement about being in the airport will wear off quickly.
3. Carry phone numbers of hotels, pet sitters and house sitters. Fido shouldn't have to suffer because you're flight home has been delayed for eight hours.
4. Don't pack your valuables, or must-have items like medication, in checked baggage. Try not to check luggage at all.
5. Leave your pocket knife, lighter and giant belt buckle at home. And before you reach the front of the security line, take off coats, remove computers from their cases and have boarding pass and photo ID ready.
6. Most luggage looks the same. In case a luggage tag becomes separated from your bag, place identification information inside your bag.
7. Consider taking out travel insurance with travel-delay and baggage-related benefits. Most policies also include a 24-hour assistance hotline for emergency travel problems.