Holiday Travelers Should Prepare for Delays and Costs; Insurance Can Help
Holiday Travelers Should Prepare for Delays and Costs; Insurance Can Help
As the holiday season approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for travel. However, with increasing airport delays and unexpected expenses, the travel experience can quickly turn stressful. Recent data indicates that airport operations are being adversely affected, leading to flight disruptions that can wreak havoc on holiday plans.
The Reality of Travel Delays
According to a report from InsureMyTrip, ongoing issues stemming from previous government shutdowns have exacerbated existing strains on airport management. This has resulted in a marked increase in flight delays across the nation. Some airports are particularly notorious for their extended wait times. For instance, during the first half of 2025, research highlighted that the following airports had the highest rates of delayed flights:
- - Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- - Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
- - Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- - McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
- - Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- - Norfolk International Airport (ORF)
- - Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
- - Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
- - Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- - Memphis International Airport (MEM)
Travelers passing through these airports must be prepared for potential disruptions, and taking proactive steps along with proper insurance coverage can help safeguard one’s holiday plans.
Financial Implications of Delays
The ripple effects of flight delays are more than just time lost; they can also incur substantial financial burdens. With terminals crowded and winter weather looming, travelers may find themselves forking out a significant sum due to unforeseen delays. A six-hour delay could result in costs surpassing $250 for food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses, while an overnight delay could escalate costs to over $600, particularly during the busy holiday rush.
Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip, emphasizes the importance of travel insurance in mitigating these unscheduled costs. She notes, “Many travelers are unaware that comprehensive trip protection typically costs between 4-10% of the total trip, which is often less than what might be spent on meals at the airport during such delays.”
How Travel Insurance Makes a Difference
Having travel insurance can significantly soften the financial blow from unexpected delays or cancellations. Here’s how:
- - Reimbursement for Meals and Accommodation: Insurance can cover expenses incurred during overnight delays or cancellations.
- - Ground Transportation: Coverage can also extend to transport solutions needed to reach your accommodation.
- - Missed Connections: Insurance policies often include protections against missed tours or cruise departures due to flight delays.
- - Trip Interruption: Should one miss reservations or planned activities due to delays, trip interruption benefits can provide financial relief.
- - 24-Hour Assistance: Many insurance providers offer around-the-clock assistance to help rebook flights, find appropriate lodging, or arrange alternate transport during chaotic situations.
Conclusion
As holiday travel gears up, the realities of delayed flights and subsequent costs are becoming increasingly apparent. This year, travelers are encouraged to consider travel insurance not only as an expense but as a safeguard against uncertain circumstances. Being prepared can mean the difference between a magical holiday season and a season filled with frustrations. With proper planning and coverage, travelers can enjoy peace of mind, allowing them to focus on creating lasting memories with loved ones this holiday season.
Topics Travel）
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