How To Navigate The Flight And Train Strikes In Europe This Summer

If you’re feeling a bit of anxiety due to the travel disruptions in Europe this summer, your feelings are within reason. Airport or national airline strikes in Italy, Ireland, the U.K., and Turkey have hit, are in motion, or are planned. Meanwhile, public transport service delays in the Netherlands and France are scheduled.

Thankfully, the answers to quelling travel disruption worries are the same as what would answer other travel concerns. Being prepared, strategic, adaptable, and updated are behaviors that set travelers up for success. Especially when things—like worker strikes—might make it feel like your travels are out of your control. Remember that while you’re vacationing, many European transportation workers are protesting for fairer wages and rights, which everyone deserves. Compassion is a traveler’s most paramount key. Navigating their strikes with consideration is important.

What Can I Do To Best Navigate Europe’s Travel Strikes?

Although it might seem obvious, it’s worth noting that avoiding travel on strike dates is ideal. It gives travelers the highest chance of getting a refund.

That said, staying updated on alerts from your carriers about cancellations or delays will also let you know if you need to rebook or follow up about compensation. Review the terms and conditions for your carrier’s cancellations and delays before booking if you can.

Being prepared might look like making sure you have alternative modes of transportation (in case trains are unavailable) and having lodging plans in place should flights get canceled. Also, consider traveling with only a carry-on if you’re worried about airport and airline disruptions impacting your checked baggage’s transportation.

Another measure you can take is implementing “buffer times” for delays in your daily plans. The extra time to get where you need to be can be helpful—whether it’s going to the airport or your inner-city activities abroad.

Keeping receipts in case you’re asked for proof of expenses from an airline or insurance company is a safe measure. Don’t forget, travel insurance can be a saving grace.

TravelPerk, a business booking and organization platform, says, “Travel insurance may cover you for essential services such as healthcare, but it can also sometimes cover you for travel disruptions — such as lost luggage, flight cancellations, or delays.”