Frequent travelers often experience delays with their flights. Vacationers might think it’s the worst thing to happen, and they’re often right. When all you can think about is rest and relaxation while heading to your destination, delayed flights can make even the most patient person mad.
With the help of technology, you can turn this problem into something that can benefit you and make you productive. Here are some tips so you can kill time and make the most of the situation.
Google Maps or Apple Maps
Flight delays can take up to several hours, depending on factors such as the weather, technical problems, and so forth. When you’re hit with significant downtime, chances are that you can explore nearby places and surroundings and still get back when flights resume.
For this, you’ll need the help of your phone’s navigational app to check for nearby landmarks and places of interest. We recommend considering walking distance first before commuting or taking a taxi to a spot that’s farther away from the airport.
Portable Gaming Console
Handheld video game consoles are perfect for taking with you when you’re going to a different country. Aside from the entertainment factor, games take your mind off things, and as an added upside, you can catch up on your library of ‘must play’ list.
Good examples of portable consoles include retro gaming handhelds, the Steam Deck, a Nintendo Switch, and, of course, your tablet or smartphone.
Your Laptop
When the planes are down and you can’t go anywhere, you might as well make the most of it by being productive. Locate a nearby power source in the airport lounge and plug your laptop in, then go through the day or night’s work and complete as much as you can.
Despite being bulkier than most gadgets, laptops are versatile- you can use yours to watch streaming videos, browse websites, or even learn a new skill on YouTube.
See If You Can Get Compensated
Did you know that you can get compensation for delayed or canceled flights? It’s true! Websites like airhelp.com can provide assistance when it comes to these things. Passenger rights are real, and it makes total sense that you get some form of payback or rebate when the airline doesn’t deliver as promised. Using a connected device, you can visit the website and see if you’re eligible.
A Good Pair of Headphones or Earbuds
Most of us have a pair of headphones or earbuds in our bags or pockets for a variety of uses. Whether it’s listening to your favorite tracks, catching up on an audiobook or podcast, or nature-themed relaxing sounds, you can get some privacy and peace and quiet amid the hustle and bustle in the airport.
How to Manage Downtime When Your Flight is Delayed
After expressing your frustration and calming down, you can view the delayed flight as an opportunity to do something else. Depending on your lifestyle, career, or status in life, you can choose to be more productive, relax, or simply do nothing and reset your mind.
If you’re on vacation, this could be the perfect opportunity to fill in the gaps of your itinerary. Or, when flying for business, you can catch up with colleagues or finish your report or presentation. Think of it as that you’re somewhere else, but the goal remains the same- getting to your destination.
Tips to Keep Yourself or Your Family Members Occupied
While it’s true that flight delays are a waste of time, the problem could be compounded if you have friends or family members with you. Young children tend to be impatient and whine about being bored, so you must do something about it as soon as possible.
Fortunately, technology can also help deal with young ones. Give them activities using your laptop or smartphone, or you can simply enjoy watching a streaming movie together. If there’s a restaurant nearby, you can plan a quick getaway.
