14 Travel Tips for Flight Delays, From a Former Gate Agent

As a former gate agent, I’ve witnessed every possible reaction to a flight delay, from calm acceptance to full-blown panic at the podium. Delays are rarely what travelers plan for, yet they’re one of the most predictable parts of air travel. Weather, mechanical checks, crew timing, and air traffic control all play a role, and while passengers can’t control those factors, they can control how prepared they are when plans suddenly go sideways.

The truth is, a delay doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. With a little foresight and a few affordable travel accessories, it can become far more manageable. Whether it’s packing a portable charger to prevent your phone from dying or arriving equipped with an e-reader, book, tablet, or other way to stave off boredom, there are plenty of ways to prevent a delayed flight from ruining your sanity. 

Below, I’m breaking down the most common mistakes travelers make during flight delays, along with practical, budget-friendly solutions that can help turn an unexpected wait into a much smoother experience.

A Former Gate Agent’s Essentials for Flight Delays

Mistake: Carrying uncomfortable bags

Solution: Using a luggage strap

I’ve seen travelers struggling with heavy or awkward bags during long delays, often juggling multiple items while trying to stay near the gate. A luggage strap is a simple, affordable hack that lets you secure a smaller bag to your rolling suitcase, keeping everything together and making it easier to move around. It reduces shoulder strain, frees your hands, and makes navigating crowded terminals far less stressful.

Mistake: Relying on airport power outlets

Solution: Pack a portable charger

Outlets near the gate fill up fast and can be very unreliable, and I’ve seen people scramble when their phones die. A portable power bank is a must-have: it keeps your devices charged so you can check updates, access your boarding pass, and stay entertained without relying on unpredictable or unavailable airport plugs. Just make sure your power bank meets airline capacity limits and is travel-friendly.

Mistake: Not protecting personal belongings

Solution: Take measures against theft 

I can’t count how many travelers came up frantic after realizing their bags were open or misplaced while waiting at the airport during a delay. Protect your belongings with gear like a sling backpack with anti-theft features to keep your most important items close to you or simple luggage locks to secure your carry-on. You can relax or even nap without constantly worrying about your belongings. Remember to always keep them within arm’s reach to avoid potential issues.

Mistake: Sitting still for too long

Solution: Stretching your stiff body

Waiting for a delayed flight can leave your body stiff and achy. I often watched passengers shift uncomfortably in their seats for hours before even getting on the plane. A small massage ball or a stretch strap can help loosen tight muscles and improve circulation without having to wander around the terminal with all your belongings. It’s an easy, packable way to stay comfortable while waiting.

Mistake: Misplacing travel documents

Solution: Keep everything in one place

During hectic delays, I’ve watched passengers dig frantically through their bags for boarding passes or passports. A dedicated holder keeps everything in one spot, making boarding smoother and reducing unnecessary stress, especially when announcements and changes are happening rapidly.

Mistake: Putting your toiletry bag in your checked luggage

Solution: Keeping basic personal hygiene items in your carry-on

Long delays can make even short waits feel uncomfortable. I always recommend keeping a small toiletry kit with wipes, deodorant, and toothpaste in your carry-on or personal item. Freshening up at the gate can dramatically improve your mood and energy levels; trust me, it’s worth carrying a tiny bag of essentials. Also, packing a change of clothing in your carry-on can make a world of difference. I do this all the time when traveling, and it has saved me more than once.

Mistake: Not keeping kids occupied

Solution: Arrive prepared with activities

I’ve seen parents struggle the most when kids get restless during delays. Keeping little travelers engaged can make a huge difference. Portable activity books, art sets, or simple card games are analog lifesavers. They’re lightweight, mess-free, and can keep children entertained for hours, which, in turn, keeps parents calmer too, and everyone around you sane. Kid-friendly tablets are also popular choices among parents to put on a show or game.

Mistake: Letting airport anxiety take over

Solution: Blocking out the noise/chaos

Airport terminals can be overwhelming. Noise, announcements, and crowds often increase stress levels. I’ve seen travelers completely calm down with just a pair of inexpensive noise-canceling headphones and a meditation app, like Calm or Headspace. Even a few minutes of guided breathing or soothing music can reset your nerves and help you think more clearly.

Mistake: Getting cold or uncomfortable in chilly terminals

Solution: Packing a cozy portable blanket

Air conditioning can make terminals uncomfortably cold, especially if your flight is delayed for hours. A lightweight, packable blanket and small travel pillow can make all the difference: you’ll stay cozy and supported whether you’re seated or trying to catch a short nap.

Mistake: Standing in line too early

Solution: Keep yourself occupied

I often see passengers line up too early, only to wait unnecessarily, which will only make you more stressed out. While you should stay close to the gate and listen for announcements, keep yourself occupied with a small deck of cards or an e-reader to stave off boredom and restlessness. You can also download an app like FlightAware on your phone or device to stay up-to-date on flight information, which helps a lot of travelers feel less stressed.

Mistake: Fumbling with tangled cords and gadgets

Solution: Stay organized

Chargers, earbuds, and cables often end up in a tangled mess in your bag. I always recommend a small tech organizer to keep everything neat and accessible. When your devices and the cables needed to charge them are easy to reach, you can focus on staying comfortable and entertained instead of digging through your bag in frustration.

Mistake: Trying to sleep in the bright terminal

Solution: Block the light out

Terminals are rarely dark or quiet, and I’ve seen exhausted travelers unable to rest, especially during an extended delay. A contoured blackout mask blocks out all light—including the bright overhead lights—and lets you catch a nap just about anywhere. It’s small, portable, and makes a huge difference for anyone needing rest during a delay.

Mistake: Getting dehydrated

Solution: A packable reusable water bottle

Not only should you have a water bottle with you for flights, which are dry and can leave you dehydrated, but you should also stay hydrated before your flight. This collapsible bottle weighs almost nothing and takes up hardly any space, yet when filled, it can hold up to one liter of water. Avoid expensive airport water bottles and pack this one to ensure you’re hydrated and alert during a delay.

Mistake: Getting “hangry”

Solution: Pack plenty of snacks

Hunger quickly escalates stress levels during delays. A small reusable snack pouch or snack organizer (often referred to as a “snackle box”) keeps protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit handy. Having snacks on hand can stabilize energy, improve your mood, and make waiting far more tolerable.

Final reminder: Please be kind to airport staff, especially during a flight delay. They are simply the messengers, doing their best to keep everyone informed and safe.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.