Delayed flights, bad weather, clogged airports — and once you make it through the winter travel obstacle course, you may have to sit next to someone with a nasty cold. Save yourself some time and energy and cut back on your stress with these tips.
* Pick a morning flight. If your flight is canceled because of bad weather, you're more likely to find another flight on the same day.
* Try to find a non-stop flight. If that isn't an option, look for connecting flights out of airports that aren't in severe winter weather areas. In other words, skip that layover in Buffalo.
* Charge your devices and have your cables handy. You may not be able to find replacements at the airport, and if you do, they're often wildly overpriced. A portable charger can also come in handy if you get stuck and outlets are occupied.
* Book a window seat. People in middle or aisle seats are more likely to catch colds from other passengers and flight crew.
* Don't forget hand sanitizer. Keep your hands clean and away from your face to further reduce your risk of illness.
* Dress in layers. Think jackets, hoodies, and cardigans. You'll stay warm wherever you are and it can free up space in your luggage.
* Have a plan B. You can't control the weather, so make sure you know what to do if your first plan doesn't go your way.
