Things can and do go wrong while traveling. So, what should you do when they do? What if you miss your flight? Your tour is canceled? The hotel can’t find your reservation? You get hurt or your wallet is stolen? Take a breath—let’s walk through some common situations and how to handle them.
Missed Flight
If the airline is at fault, they’re usually willing to work with you to find the best alternative.
For example, my son and I were flying to Poland when our first flight was delayed, which meant we would miss our connection. We found out on the way to the airport, pulled into the cell phone lot, and called the airline right away. They tried every option to get us to our connecting flight, but it was Spring Break and nothing was available that day. We ended up going home and flying out the next day instead.
The airline moved our departure by one day with no penalty and even gave us flight credits for future travel. They also checked options on other airlines.
A few tips:
- Always have the airline’s phone number handy.
- You can also go to the check-in desk at the airport, but I like calling—phone agents are often calmer and less rushed. You can also get in line and call at the same time, then take whichever is available first.
- Ask: what your options are to get you to your destination, rebooking fees/fare differences, partner airlines or alternate routes, free rebooking and possible a hotel if it’s an overnight.
- Remember, the person helping you didn’t cause the problem. Be kind and patient; agents usually work much harder for travelers who are polite and understanding.
Cancelled tour
Tours do get canceled, sometimes at the last minute. If the tour operator cancels, you should receive a refund.
From there, you still have several good options:
- Contact your travel agent and let them find an alternative tour.
- Check platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide for last-minute availability.
- Call the tour company that canceled; they may be able to recommend another operator.
- Or simply explore on your own. You might end up loving it more!
On our trip to Poland, one of our tours was canceled and we decided to just wander on our own. It turned out to be one of the best days of the entire trip!
Reservation troubles
Reservation issues happen, even at great resorts and hotels.
One of my clients ran into a problem at check-in. She texted me, and I called the resort directly to sort it out. While I worked with the staff, she went on enjoying her vacation without having to stress.
Travel agents often have direct contacts and Business Development Managers (BDMs) that guests can’t easily reach on their own. That extra access can make resolving mix-ups much faster and smoother.
Tips
-Have your confirmation email, booking number and proof of payment.
-Ask: can they honor the rate and check you in any; help you find a room at a nearby property if they are full.
-Keep your receipts if you have to pay for another room in case you seek reimbursement from your travel insurance.
Injuries or a stolen wallet
This is where travel insurance and preparation really matter.
- Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and theft. Then call their emergency line. Before you travel, check if your health insurance covers you internationally.
- Call the local emergency number, it is not always 911, look it up before you travel.
- Save all medical reports, receipts and prescriptions for insurance claims.
- Keep the phone number and address of the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate with you. Especially for serious injury or if you need help contacting family or arranging medical evacuation.
- Don’t panic! Lost or stolen passports can be replaced. You can get an emergency passport from the U.S. Embassy. Bring your police report and ID copies.
-Call your bank and credit card companies to freeze or cancel cards; use their apps if you can’t call.
- File a police report; you’ll need it for insurance and sometimes for the embassy.
- Have a secondary, backup credit card kept in a different location.
While traveling in Spain with friends, our van was broken into, and all our luggage was stolen. We went straight to the police station to file a report. We never got our bags back, but it turned out okay. I went shopping in Spain to replace what I needed, which was actually fun. And visiting a Spanish police station became its own little adventure and story.
Conclusion
Most problems on a trip are solvable. The keys are:
- Stay calm.
- Keep important phone numbers handy (airline, hotel, tour operator, travel agent, insurance, and embassy).
- Build a good relationship with a travel agent who can advocate for you.
Often, the moments when things don’t go according to plan become the stories you tell the most when you get home. With the right mindset, even mishaps can turn into part of the adventure.
About Me
Hi! I am Amber Johnson, a travel advisor based in Ottawa, Kansas, specializing in European getaways, family vacations, domestic travel, and all-inclusive packages. What began as planning trips for my own family and friends has grown into a career I love, helping clients design stress-free, memorable adventures all over the world.
