No matter how carefully you plan, travel can still surprise you. A sudden storm, a cancelled flight, or luggage that never appears on the carousel can turn an exciting start into a stressful wait. The key is knowing how to respond when things go wrong. Acting quickly, staying calm, and having the right cover in place can help keep your trip on track.

Flight delays and cancellations are among the most common frustrations. The first thing to do is check for updates directly with your airline, either through their app or at the gate. Always ask for written confirmation of the reason behind the delay, as this will be useful if you later need to make a claim.

Under UK and EU regulations, you may be entitled to food vouchers, overnight accommodation, or even compensation depending on the situation. If the flight is cancelled, you should be offered a refund or a replacement flight at no extra cost.

This is also where travel insurance proves its worth. Airlines will only cover certain basics, but they are unlikely to reimburse you for additional costs such as non-refundable hotel bookings or meals during extended delays. A strong policy fills that gap, ensuring you are not left out of pocket.

If you’re flying long-haul or have a multi-stop itinerary, tight connections can be a risk, especially if one leg is delayed. If you’re facing a delay that will affect your connection, alert the airline staff when you land before you exit the delayed flight, they may be able to get a message to your connecting flight. If not, go straight to your airline’s help desk in the airport and ask to be rebooked onto the next available flight.

Lost luggage is another common problem. Always report it before leaving the airport and ask for a Property Irregularity Report. Keep receipts for essential items you buy while waiting for your bag to arrive. Many airlines provide a small allowance, but travel insurance usually extends this to cover clothing, toiletries, and other essentials. If your bag is never recovered, your policy can also provide reimbursement for lost items.

Travel disruption is sometimes unavoidable; air traffic control strikes, transport shutdowns, and extreme weather events can cause widespread disruption.

No one wants their holiday to go off course, but it’s the reality for modern travel. From weather delays to missing luggage, these situations can be stressful in the moment, but rarely ruin a trip altogether, especially if you’re prepared.

Travel insurance gives you more than just protection, it gives you peace of mind when plans change unexpectedly. With the right support behind you, even disrupted journeys can lead to memorable stories and safe arrivals.