There are plenty of things to worry about when flying, from lost luggage to missing a connecting flight to cramped seating on board. And while it may seem like people have been complaining about air travel for ages, it’s safe to say that flying has never been more stressful than it is now. Enter: “gatexiety,” a term that hit the headlines in 2024 and has since gained traction as a realistic response to the stressful situation of traveling by air. Here’s what it means — along with a few helpful tips to reduce your cortisol levels the next time you’re in an airport.

What Is “Gatexiety”?

As travelers on social media began commiserating about the anxiety of getting to one’s airport gate and described compulsively (and repetitively) checking departure boards and boarding passes, the term “gatexiety” was born. (Gate + anxiety = gatexiety.) 

Being anxious about missing a flight is nothing new. Wait times to get through security can sometimes exceed an hour. Airports are bigger and busier than ever, so reaching your gate can boost your daily step count — and eat up a lot of time. And flights do change their originally assigned gates (and sometimes even terminals!) frequently and at the last minute, for a variety of reasons.

Dr. Johanna Wood, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, understands the angst. “There are a lot of aspects of airports that may elicit anxiety,” she says. “One of the biggest reasons people feel anxious is the fear of the unknown. It’s often helpful to look at maps of the airport, [and] review your route to the right terminal and to the gate. Look up rules on flying and how to go through TSA beforehand. Finding out more information can make us feel more in control. Getting to the airport with plenty of time before boarding will help avoid anxiety about missing the flight and reduce the feeling of being rushed, which can make the whole process feel calmer.”

Below are six other tips for reducing “gatexiety” and airport anxiety in general. 

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

This is the one piece of advice that Dr. Wood and pretty much everyone else agree on: Being rushed will only make anxiety worse. Give yourself a generous cushion of time to deal with traffic, long TSA lines, a gate assignment that suddenly changes from one end of a concourse to the other, or any of the myriad issues that can get your travel off to a stressful start. Experts recommend arriving no later than two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international itinerary, or even earlier in some circumstances. Being early costs nothing except time and allows you to relax at (or near) your gate with a beverage or a book.

Download the Apps

All airlines have their own apps, as do most major airports and the TSA. These apps are helpful for checking TSA wait times and displaying maps that show where (and how) to get to your gate. Enable the push notifications on your airline app to get mobile boarding passes, up-to-the-minute info on delays and cancellations, and alerts for those dreaded last-minute gate changes. The free FlightAware app also gives real-time status updates and can sometimes notify even faster than the airline’s own product.

If You Fly Frequently, Splurge for a Service

Getting through airport security can be both slow and stressful. For frequent flyers, a service to expedite that makes sense. People who are in and out of the country on a regular basis will want to check out Global Entry, a Trusted Traveler Program that expedites passing through border control upon return to the U.S. A five-year membership is $120 and requires an in-person interview. 

Membership in Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, a domestic program that offers dedicated security lanes where flyers can leave electronics and 3-1-1 liquids in their bags, and not have to take off belts and light jackets. Five years of TSA PreCheck membership without Global Entry costs $85, but check to see if your travel credit card offers a credit.

Scope Out the Territory

Once you’ve sailed through security, there’s nothing wrong with checking the electronic departure displays. But compulsively checking over and over will only make you more anxious. Locate the gate your plane is currently scheduled to depart from, and make sure the destination display matches your flight plans. Then, you can make yourself comfortable or locate the nearest restaurant or lounge — but make sure to give yourself time before the start of boarding to ensure that the gate hasn’t changed. (Those airline app push notifications still aren’t perfect.) 

Take Out the Earbuds

I once very nearly missed a flight because I got engrossed in a playlist and didn’t hear a gate change announcement. Those announcements can be hard to hear over the intercom at the best of times and sometimes aren’t announced at all. It’s always a good idea to turn off the tunes well in advance of your boarding time and take one last look at the display above your gate.

Take It Easy on the Alcohol

Every airport bartender has multiple stories of passengers looking up during their third cocktail only to realize that — oops — their flight has departed, leaving them soused and stranded. While one bloody mary might ease preflight jitters, more than that can lead you to lose track of time. Plus, alcohol affects your body differently once you’re at cruising altitude, and airplane cabins tend to be dehydrating, so you may want to skip that second round and refill your water bottle instead.

Every culture has its do’s and don’ts for eating. When you’re traveling abroad, certain actions that are considered polite or customary in the U.S. can quickly brand you as an uncouth foreigner in another country. From tipping culture to asking for tap water, here are some of the most common etiquette mistakes to avoid.

Asking for a “Doggie Bag”

Although the practice allegedly originated in Rome, asking for takeout containers (aka “doggie bags”) was considered extremely gauche in Italy — and throughout most of Europe — 20 or so years ago. Today, a focus on food waste has made carrying home leftovers more acceptable, but ordering smaller portions is the more Italian way. 

In Italy, other faux pas include combining seafood and cheese (though there are exceptions), ordering cappuccinos in the afternoon, dipping your bread in oil and vinegar (strictly for tourists), and drinking tap water instead of naturale (still) or frizzante (sparkling). In fact, according to a new court ruling, Italian restaurants are within their rights to refuse to provide tap water at all.

Using Your Left Hand

In the Muslim world, the left hand is used for activities that are considered unclean, such as washing after using the restroom. Therefore, when traveling in the Middle East and other regions with a strong Muslim influence, you should use only the right hand for eating, drinking, taking or offering things, and shaking hands. That said, if there’s a reason that prevents you from eating and drinking with the right hand, such as sickness or injury, using the left hand should not cause offense if you politely explain your situation.

Eating All Your Food — Or Not Eating Enough

Scrupulously cleaning your plate in China signifies that the host has not served you sufficient food, and it’s likely that you will be fed until you leave at least a couple of bites. The custom is the exact opposite in India, where wasting food is considered quite impolite, and visitors should always attempt to finish a meal with a clean plate.

Tallying the Tips

While Americans are accustomed to tipping 20% for everything from a restaurant meal to a taxi ride, that’s considered bizarre — and even rude — in many other destinations. Even if you’re feeling generous, grandiose tipping can disrupt the local economy and have an overall negative effect on the locals who live there. Read up and tip in line with local customs — in many cases, this often means just leaving any small change that’s returned with the check or rounding up to the nearest even denomination.

Eating on the Street

While you should definitely sample the local delicacies available from street carts, chowing down while walking is frowned upon in many places. It’s generally not banned — no one will arrest or fine you — but particularly in Japan and France, eating and drinking while walking on the street is often seen as uncouth. And although Singapore is legendary for its hawker outdoor food stalls, make sure to properly discard your food wrappers, as even a first offense for littering will earn you a hefty fine. 

Using a Fork

Per traditional Thai etiquette, forks are used to guide food onto a spoon, and the spoon is then placed in the mouth. The people of Thailand are usually extremely polite to farang (foreigners) and will almost never correct someone; however, seeing a fork placed in someone’s mouth might give them the sort of “ick” Westerners feel while watching someone lick food from a butter knife.

Yucking Someone’s Yum

Lastly, this should go without saying, but avoid disparaging another country’s local delicacies. If you don’t want to try crispy fried grasshoppers, fresh durian, or stinky tofu, you’re missing out, but no one is going to force you. Insulting someone’s food is extremely poor manners, so always try to be polite when you encounter other cultures’ dining traditions. 

Travelers have long obsessed over ways to keep the middle seat empty, from strategically choosing their row to changing assignments at the last minute. But in today’s era of overbooked flights and sophisticated seating algorithms, there’s really only one guaranteed method: paying for the extra space. Some carriers allow travelers to purchase adjacent seats outright, while others offer “neighbor-free” upgrades and bidding options shortly before departure. Here’s how to secure an empty middle seat on your next flight.

Booking an Extra Seat on U.S. Airlines

Currently, the only way to guarantee an empty middle seat on a U.S. airline is to purchase an extra seat next to yours for the full fare in advance. Most major airlines allow passengers to do so for comfort, privacy, medical needs, or while traveling with instruments or equipment. To ensure the seat remains empty, travelers must check in and obtain both boarding passes. Otherwise, gate agents might mark the seat as unoccupied and assign it to a standby passenger.

Specific policies vary by airline. United Airlines and JetBlue allow travelers to reserve an adjacent seat during online booking by identifying the second passenger as an “extra seat.” American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Alaska Airlines also permit extra seat purchases at the time of booking, though travelers must call reservations directly to reserve one.

Popular budget carrier Frontier Airlines, meanwhile, allows economy passengers to purchase an empty seat next to them via the online chat feature. In 2024, the airline also introduced “UpFront Plus,” an upgraded seating option in the first two rows that guarantees a window or aisle seat with an empty middle seat and extra legroom.

Southwest Airlines is more restrictive. It permits extra-seat bookings only under its “customers of size” policy and does not allow travelers to purchase an adjacent seat solely for additional comfort or convenience.

International Carriers Have Different Policies

While many international carriers offer options similar to those on U.S. airlines, in which passengers can pay full price in advance for an empty adjacent seat, others allow passengers to purchase or bid on empty neighboring seats closer to departure, often at a discounted rate. This model benefits airlines by turning unsold seats into additional revenue rather than letting them go empty.

These discounted, last-minute empty seats are subject to availability and aren’t guaranteed until shortly before departure. If the airline can sell the ticket to another passenger at full fare, the seat will be taken, and the passenger who tried to purchase it as an extra seat will be refunded.

One example of this comes from Qantas, Australia’s largest airline, which offers “Neighbour Free” seating in economy class on eligible flights. Passengers may receive an email up to 48 hours before departure, inviting them to purchase the empty adjacent seat. Pricing varies based on route and demand. Some customers have reported prices as low as $50 — a steep discount compared to a full-fare ticket.

Another carrier, Philippine Airlines, allows passengers to purchase up to three adjacent seats through their “myPal Seat Select Neighbor-Free” program, with fees starting at $30 per seat. Fiji Airways has a similar policy called “”My Bubble,” in which a neighbor-free seat can be booked between 72 and four hours before departure. And with Air France, passengers can reserve up to three extra seats with the “My Extra Space” program, but only after check-in, so availability is often limited.

Those flying on Virgin Australia, meanwhile, can bid on an empty neighboring seat. Economy travelers submit the amount they’re willing to pay, and their card is charged only if the bid is accepted. Sometimes this doesn’t happen until two hours before departure, however, and there is no guarantee your bid will be accepted. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has a similar bidding system, allowing travelers to bid on up to three adjacent empty seats up to 72 hours before departure.

Other Ways To Improve Your Odds — And What To Avoid

Paying for a second seat is the only guaranteed way to secure an empty middle seat, but if this isn’t in the budget, there are still ways to improve your odds of flying without a neighbor. For example, strategically choosing less-crowded flights and avoiding peak travel times may help. Try midweek departures and early morning or late-night flights, and avoid holidays. And be strategic when selecting a seat, as seats toward the front tend to fill up before those at the back of the cabin.

Keep in mind, however, that many hacks that were popular in the past have become far less effective as airline technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Waiting until the last minute to select your seat (in hopes of picking one next to an empty seat) doesn’t work as well now because the airline’s online seat map can be misleading. A half-empty seating chart doesn’t necessarily mean half the plane is unsold; it just reflects passengers who haven’t selected or been assigned seats yet. Airlines fill many of those seats with basic-economy passengers, standby passengers, airline employees, and last-minute bookings.

Many hotel reservations allow you to cancel the booking in the event that something comes up. For example, you may need to cancel due to an emergency or a change of plans, or even because you found a better deal elsewhere. But don’t assume you can back out at any time or get a full refund if you do — the terms of each booking dictate just how much flexibility you have. Here’s what you need to know before canceling a hotel reservation to avoid fines or penalties.

Always Check the Fine Print

There’s no uniform rule when it comes to hotel cancellation policies. Instead, specific properties set their own policies. Even hotels under the same brand umbrella might have different terms. For instance, a Marriott in one location may impose a 24-hour cancellation window, while a Marriott hundreds of miles away may have a 72-hour deadline. So, even if you always stay at the same hotel chain and think you know the rules by heart, it’s a good idea to check each time.

Some reservation types may prevent free cancellation altogether. But if you’re allowed to cancel, the good news is that hotels explicitly state the cancellation deadline before you book and in your reservation details, so it’ll never be sprung on you after it’s too late.

Hotels typically list the date, the time of day (often in local time, which is important to note if you’re traveling to a different time zone), and whether the booking is partially refundable or nonrefundable after the deadline passes.

Types of Cancellation Policies

One of the most common cancellation policies you’ll encounter is flexible cancellation, which typically permits free cancellation up to a certain time before check-in (often 72 to 24 hours). Any cancellations beyond that window often result in a forfeiture equivalent to one night’s stay or the cost of the entire booking. Some hotels, such as Motel 6, are more flexible and offer same-day cancellation, though this is rare.

Many hotels offer a nonrefundable, nonchangeable booking option in which the traveler pays for the booking upfront. From the hotel’s perspective, these reservations are put in place to guarantee revenue and avoid empty rooms. To account for the lack of flexibility, nonrefundable rates are usually priced lower than refundable ones. This low cost may be appealing to many guests, especially people who have no intention of changing their plans. Just be aware that if you do need to change plans, you may be out of luck.

Know Your Grace Period

After you confirm your booking, you may be entitled to a grace period in which you’re allowed to cancel for free, even if the booking is technically nonrefundable. For instance, California mandates that all reservations made at least 72 hours in advance are granted a 24-hour free cancellation window after the booking is confirmed. This is helpful if, say, you have second thoughts after confirming and would prefer to shop around a bit more. The exact rules vary from state to state, so be sure to consult the fine print before booking so you’re aware of what rules apply to your situation. 

Call in Case of Emergency

While nonrefundable bookings are largely set in stone, if an emergency situation arises and you’re no longer able to travel, first try calling the hotel and politely explaining the details of your emergency. They might be able to reimburse you, or at least provide you with a travel credit for a future stay. In some cases, they may even be able to postpone your booking to a later date for free. While there’s no guarantee that this will work, it may be worth trying.

What About Prepaid Deposits?

Some reservation types require a deposit at the time of booking. But if you need to cancel, will that prepaid deposit be returned to you? The answer is dependent on the cancellation policy you agreed to. If you cancel prior to the deadline, the entire deposit will be refunded. If you cancel after the deadline, then either some or all of the deposit will be withheld.

One helpful note if you decide to cancel: Make sure the form of payment you used to book the room is still valid. If it isn’t, contact the hotel and provide them with a new form of payment so they can refund your deposit to that account.

Always Get Confirmation

Whenever you cancel a hotel booking, make sure that you walk away with a confirmation number or a confirmation email for the cancellation. Let’s say you cancel a hotel reservation, but your credit card still gets charged for the stay. When you call the hotel to figure out why, they may say that nobody ever called to cancel. If you provide them with the confirmation number, however, they should be able to look it up in their system and see there was a mistake. If they still give you a difficult time, you can dispute the charges with your bank and provide the confirmation number as evidence.

Featured image credit: Credit: © Art_Photo/stock.adobe.com

Anyone who’s stayed in hotels frequently can tell you that hotel thermostats can be stubborn. The devices are often programmed so guests can set the temperature only within a narrow range, which may fail to adequately cool or heat the room to your liking. While there’s a reason that hotels do this, there’s a simple hack that can help guests override the system. Here’s how.

Why Hotels Restrict Their Air Conditioners

There are two major reasons why hotels restrict their thermostats. The first is to minimize energy costs. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that U.S. hotels average $2,200 in energy costs per room annually, and according to Travel + Leisure, HVAC-related costs make up roughly 50% of an average hotel’s annual energy bill. Hotels can lower those costs by partially limiting the use of their AC units to a more narrow temperature range.

The other reason that hotels limit temperature settings is to protect the room against damage. If an HVAC unit produces too much condensation during the cooling process, it might cause mold or mildew to grow on the walls and in fabric. And in the wintertime, hotels may want to keep the rooms warm enough to help prevent any pipes from freezing due to frigid conditions outside.

How To Bypass Hotel AC Units

The specifics of this thermostat override hack vary depending on the exact thermostat brand. But the general idea has to do with accessing what’s known as VIP or LEN (limited energy) mode, which allows you to bypass the restrictions the hotel has set.

One of the most popular thermostat brands you’ll find in hotels is Honeywell. According to this helpful YouTube video, you can access its LEN mode through the following steps:

• Press and hold the “display,” “off/auto,” and upward-pointing temperature arrow buttons at the same time for three seconds. 
• Then, release the buttons, and you should see the letters “LEN” appear on the screen — this signifies the thermostat has entered limited energy mode. 
• Now, you can raise or lower the temperature to your liking without any prior restrictions the hotel may have implemented.

That’s just one example of the many thermostat brands used at hotels across the world. For others, you can search for the brand and info about how to access LEN mode.

Word to the wise: Always be careful when you’re adjusting the equipment in your room to avoid accidental damage, which could result in an added fine of several hundred dollars on your bill when you check out. Before trying this hack, you may just consider calling the front desk to see if there’s anything they can do to adjust the temperature in your room. 

Tips for Hotels Without AC Units

While in-room AC is standard in U.S. hotels, there are certain regions — including many parts of Europe — where hotel AC units are considered a rarity. If this is the case, there are a few ways to try to stay cool.

First, you may be able to request a standing fan from the hotel desk, if one is available. You can also consider bringing a battery-powered travel fan, which easily fits into any carry-on and can be placed anywhere in the room to help circulate air.

Otherwise, open up the windows if possible to get a cross-breeze going. And be sure to close the blinds when you leave the room; this helps keep the sun’s heat out while you’re gone so you don’t return to a sweltering situation. Lastly, be sure to stay hydrated.

It’s not a widespread practice, but some travelers bring gifts to distribute to flight attendants as they board an aircraft. And while you can expect the hardworking flight attendants on the receiving end to appreciate the thoughtful gesture, cynics might argue that those handing out gifts are just attempting to curry favor and must want something in return. So, should you bring your flight attendants gifts? If so, what can you give? Let’s take a look at this practice and what airlines have to say about it.

The Pros and Cons of Gift Giving

Many of those in favor of giving gifts to cabin crew say they do so without any expectation of special treatment. Some argue that, because passengers can sometimes be unreasonable and display challenging behaviors, it’s simply a friendly gesture and a way of expressing gratitude and showing their appreciation for those who perform such a demanding job. Flight attendants also point out that airport prices can be expensive, and being gifted items helps their salary stretch further. 

Others disagree with the practice, claiming that passengers who bring gifts to distribute on board often hope for an upgrade — or at least preferential treatment. However, flight attendants who have chimed in on these online discussions say that rarely, if ever, happens.

What Airlines Say

When I asked United Airlines’ virtual assistant about the practice, the airline confirmed that passengers are “welcome to show appreciation to your flight attendant with a small, thoughtful gift like a thank-you note, snack, or treat. However, cash tips or expensive items aren’t allowed. If you’d like to give something, keep it simple and heartfelt — flight attendants really appreciate the gesture!”

A spokesperson for Southwest Airlines echoes that sentiment, telling me via email: “We don’t have a policy prohibiting gifts for crew members. It happens fairly regularly and it’s a good boost to the crew.”

Frontier Airlines also relayed that gifts were usually well received, stating, “In general, passengers are allowed to give small, appropriate gifts to cabin crew, and many crew members truly appreciate the gesture.” Similarly, American Airlines says passengers are welcome to offer cabin crew small gifts as they board.  

What Gifts Might Be Appropriate?

I also asked on Threads what my fellow travelers think. And if they do give gifts to flight attendants, what are some good ideas? As it turns out, gift cards for coffee chains that have branches at many U.S. airports are a popular option. One flight attendant even chimed in to suggest that passengers could buy cabin crew scratch-off lottery tickets but to be sure they’d be valid for the route flown.

Wellness products such as facial moisturizers, lip balms, and hand creams that help with rehydration after a long spell in the air were also mentioned, and with dry cabin air and long travel days, it’s easy to see why those would be welcome. Candy, chocolate, and mints can make suitable gifts, too. Plus, a large bag can be shared, which is useful if you’re unsure about how many flight attendants will be staffing your flight.

What Shouldn’t You Bring?

One item that isn’t wise to give as a gift is alcohol, especially if you’re traveling to parts of the world that might have a more conservative attitude toward its consumption. And while a bag of homemade cookies might seem like a thoughtful idea, commercially packaged items can be received with more confidence as they’re sealed and thus tamper-proof. 

As suggested by United’s virtual assistant, airlines also usually frown upon cash tips, and depending on the carrier, any money may be handed straight back to you. When outlier Frontier Airlines announced a change in their policy to allow passengers to add a tip for in-flight food and beverage purchases, the Association of Flight Attendants responded by issuing a press release that expressed a clear objection to the practice.

When Gifting Goes Wrong: A Cautionary Tale

On one recent British Airways flight from London’s Heathrow Airport to Los Angeles, a gift allegedly given by a passenger to the cabin crew had unexpected consequences. During the February 2026 flight, three flight attendants became unwell after consuming what they thought was normal candy. In fact, they’d eaten marijuana gummies.

The so-called candy was thought to have contained 300 milligrams of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the main psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. The airline became aware of the issue when those affected reported unusual symptoms, and a replacement crew had to be drafted in to staff the return flight to London.

While that’s surely an unusual case, at the end of the day — no matter which side of the gift-giving debate you fall on — you don’t have to overthink it. A simple “thank you” (even in the form of a handwritten note) or a smile and a greeting when boarding can go a long way — and it’s completely free.

Flight attendants we spoke to said the most meaningful thanks come from making their jobs easier by following instructions and being patient. And if you enjoyed the flight, consider writing a compliment letter to the airline in recognition of the service you received.  

Most people remember to check their passport validity before an international trip, keeping in mind the six-month rule. But there’s another passport issue that catches travelers off guard: not having enough blank pages. It sounds minor, but having too few blank pages in your passport can end your trip before it even begins. To avoid this unwanted surprise, make sure you know the facts about passport pages before heading abroad.

Why Blank Passport Pages Matter

Every country handles passport stamps and visas a little differently. Some mark the corner of a page with a small stamp, while others take up almost an entire page. If you’re hopping between multiple countries on one trip, those stamps add up fast, especially as immigration officers don’t always stamp in a way that saves space.

Unfortunately, partially empty pages throughout your passport usually don’t count as available pages — many countries require completely blank pages for an entry and exit stamp. Additionally, some countries require consecutive pages, a requirement that can be even harder to fulfill as you accumulate more stamps.  

If your passport fills up while you’re traveling, you may need to visit a U.S. embassy or consulate and apply for an emergency replacement passport. Depending on where you are, that can take anywhere from a day to over a week. It can also mean extra fees, changed flights, and unnecessary stress.

How Many Blank Pages Do You Need?

Requirements vary depending on where you’re going, but most countries stamp passports with an entry and exit stamp. Some destinations, such as the EU, are transitioning to digital entry and exit systems, eliminating the need for physical stamps, but for the time being, travelers are still required to have blank pages. You can search the U.S. State Department website to find the exact entry requirements for your destination. 

Countries requiring one blank page include Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Greece, Spain, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, and Morocco. 

Many countries in the Schengen Area of Europe require two blank pages, including Germany, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Finland, and the Netherlands. Other countries requiring two blank pages include China, Laos, Kenya, and South Africa. South Africa is one of the countries that requires two consecutive blank pages, and they’re known for being especially strict. There have been reports of travelers being denied boarding for not having two consecutive blank pages available. 

Additionally, some countries issue visas on arrival, which can take up an entire page on their own. However, they still require blank pages for entry and exit stamps, so you would need up to three blank pages.

Before traveling internationally, flip through your passport and do the following:

• Count only fully blank visa pages
• Ignore endorsement pages in the back (they don’t count)
• Check the requirements for every country you’re visiting
• Double-check long layovers, since some countries have their own entry rules even for transit passengers 

The Smarter Move: Get the Larger Passport Book

When applying for or renewing a U.S. passport, you can request the larger 52-page passport book at no extra cost. The regular passport has only 28 pages, so the larger version gives you a lot more breathing room if you travel often. You can select the large book option when filling out your application.

It’s especially worth doing if you travel internationally for work, take frequent multicountry trips, visit countries that require full-page visas, or simply tend to collect a lot of passport stamps.

Wondering if you can add extra pages to an existing U.S. passport? Unfortunately, not anymore. The U.S. Department of State stopped allowing travelers to add extra passport pages back in 2016. Once your passport fills up, you have to renew the passport book and receive a new one.

Nothing in life is without risk — even your vacation. Purchasing travel insurance is a personal choice, but many people appreciate the peace of mind that comes with having some coverage when their best-laid plans go awry. As with anything related to travel, however, it pays to do your homework — and you might be surprised to find that some insurance policies offer financial protection in categories you never expected. Here are five common things that can be covered by insurance on your next big trip.

Pets and Service Animals

Pets are always a little challenging for travelers because our four-legged friends need excellent care while we’re away. Happily, some travel insurance policies offer coverage for at-home pet care, and certain plans will also cover the added costs of kennel care should your return trip be delayed. If you travel with your animal, some specialized policies will even pay for your pet to fly without you if you are unable to return home due to hospitalization, illness, or injury.

Emergencies You Didn’t Plan For

Sure, you might expect medical coverage, but did you know that dental emergencies are often included in travel insurance policies as well? If you suffer from a cracked tooth, a loose crown, or an abscess while on your trip, you’ll need to get into a dentist’s chair as soon as possible. Travel insurance can cover the cost of an emergency visit away from home, so you don’t have to end your trip early.

If a more serious situation arises and you end up hospitalized while traveling abroad, some policies will even pay for a loved one to fly to your location to support you during your time of need. For example, plans from Atlas Travel Insurance will cover up to $100,000 for emergency reunions, including round-trip transportation, lodging, and meals for 15 days. And should you become medically unable to drive during a road trip, insurance policies can also reimburse the cost of transporting your car back to your home base.

Device and Excursion Protection

Many travel insurance providers offer an option to cover your tech, gadgets, and electronics when you travel. This can be especially useful for digital nomads, since their devices are their livelihood. In this case, insurance policies don’t just cover device theft — they can also protect travelers from cracked screens, liquid damage, and accidental drops of phones, tablets, and laptops. However, this is usually an add-on and not typically covered by standard insurance plans. You’ll also need to provide proof of ownership and damage documentation to receive a payout.

For other travelers, interruptions to recreational activities are another unexpected perk of travel insurance. The cost of ski gear, lift tickets, equipment rentals, golf clubs, and tee times certainly adds up, so it’s helpful to know that some policies cover these losses to ensure you don’t forfeit money in nonrefundable bookings in the event of a flight delay. Just note that these plans tend to come at a higher premium.

Protection on the Home Front

Sometimes, emergencies happen at home while you’re away. Luckily, many policies will cover unexpected crises that happen on your home property. Depending on the insurance plan, this can include a wide range of instances, including burglary or fire, storm damage, or death or illness of a pet. Always read the fine print to make sure you’re covered for your specific scenario.

The Miscellaneous Stuff You Didn’t See Coming

Why does jury duty always seem to pop up when you least expect it? Well, it’s even more shocking when it disrupts potential travel plans. Thankfully, some policies offer common coverage for jury duty as a cancellation reason, so you don’t lose money just because you have to be a dutiful citizen. Travel insurance can also protect you from incurring cancellation fees if you lose your job involuntarily and have to postpone your expensive trip. 

And then there are those things you really just can’t plan for. This is when a Cancel for Any Reason, or “CFAR,” policy is especially helpful. For example, the most comprehensive plan from AXA covers up to 75% of your trip costs — including airfare, a hotel, activity bookings, and nonrefundable deposits — when you cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. However, these plans are typically more expensive and will typically increase the total trip cost by 2% to 4%. 

Budget airlines are notorious for sneaky fees that often add up to more than the cost of the ticket itself. You’re probably familiar with the most common upcharges — seat selection, baggage fees, and the like — but there’s one line item that many low-cost airlines tend to bury in the fine print. And by the time you find out about it, you’re left with no choice but to pony up some extra cash. Here’s what you need to know before booking your next budget airline ticket.

Paying To Check In

The business model of low-cost airlines is to advertise a low base fare to draw customers in and then charge for nearly everything else a la carte. Surprisingly, that even applies to the airport check-in process. While legacy airlines allow you to speak with an agent, check in, and print your boarding pass at no extra charge, many budget carriers charge extra for the ability to check in at the airport with the help of a staff member. 

The reasoning is simple: The more staff that’s needed on-site, the higher the airline’s costs will be. (Budget airlines need to maintain extremely low cost structures in order to stay profitable.) By implementing an extra charge for checking in at the airport, budget airlines hope to deter travelers from needing to speak with an employee, thus keeping their overhead costs lower. If a passenger decides to pay the extra fee, the airline benefits by recouping some money.

What You Can Expect To Pay

When it comes to check-in fees, Frontier Airlines has some of the highest, including a $25 “Airport Agent Assistance Charge” if passengers require help on-site. The fee applies to tasks travelers could have done themselves online, such as checking in, printing boarding passes, and purchasing bags or seats. However, there are some exemptions, including for any flyers who require special assistance or who are active members of the U.S. military.

Frontier’s competitor Allegiant does not charge a general fee to use airport check-in services, but it does charge specifically to print your boarding pass, requiring a $5 payment to do so.

As for international low-cost airlines, Mexico’s Volaris charges up to 300 pesos (around $17 USD) for a staff member’s personal attention at the airport. In Europe, the popular Ryanair charges a fee of 55 euros (roughly $64 USD) for most destinations for in-person assistance at airport check-in.

What To Do Instead

Thankfully, the solution to avoid these junk fees is simple. When flying a low-cost airline, always check in before you arrive at the airport, on either your computer or your mobile device at no additional cost. Airlines typically open check-in 24 hours prior to departure. This is also a good time to pay for bags (if you haven’t done so already) and seat assignments.

To avoid boarding pass printing fees, use the airline’s dedicated mobile app instead or send your boarding pass to your email. From there, you can pull up your pass and scan it to board the plane. If you feel more comfortable with a physical boarding pass, you can also print one at home for no extra charge.

Junk Fees Are Big Business

To give a sense of how much low-cost airlines rely on these fees, check out this 2023 study conducted by the British website NetVoucherCodes. The company determined that the now-defunct Spirit Airlines charged ancillary fees that amounted to 736% of the cost of an average ticket. Volaris’ hidden fees raised the price by 626%, Frontier’s fees amounted to 376% of the cost of an average ticket, and other airlines ranged between a 95% increase and a 201% increase on the base fare.

Many travelers aren’t aware of the airport check-in and boarding pass printing fees and end up having to pay them as a result. Other common fees include paying extra for both checked and carry-on luggage (prepaying online is almost always cheaper than at the airport or boarding gate), seat selection, in-flight amenities such as food and drinks, and even a fee for the convenience of booking online (which you can avoid by buying your ticket at the airport).

Pickpocketing is a frequent concern for travelers, particularly in crowded tourist areas. A recent survey from Quotezone ranked Italy first in Europe for pickpocketing incidents, followed by France and Spain. Thankfully, most visits to these countries are trouble-free, but you should still be on your guard if you plan to visit high-profile attractions such as the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Take a look at seven common habits that attract pickpockets and how to make yourself less of a target.

Not Choosing the Right Gear

Some bags are easier targets for pickpockets than others. Luckily, there are a wide range of anti-theft bags on the market, such as those from PacSafe, that are designed with security in mind. These products usually feature steel mesh embedded in the fabric to deter slash thieves, specially designed zippers, lockable pockets, and/or cross-body designs. While they may come with a premium price tag, the investment could be worth it for the peace of mind that it gives you — after all, no one wants to spend hours of their precious vacation in a police station getting the necessary report to file an insurance claim.

Looking Lost in Busy Areas

If you’re lost, you might be tempted to study your phone or a map. But to avoid attracting pickpockets, you should really stay focused on what’s going on around you. When you’re visiting somewhere for the first time, particularly if it’s a crowded spot, think carefully about where you pause if you need to get your bearings. For instance, try to avoid stopping on the sidewalk and instead duck into a doorway (and keep a hand over your bag while you do so). Better still, make your plans from the comfort of a hotel room or over coffee in a café. That way, once you set off, you can do so with confidence.

Not Storing Your Luggage

If you’ve just arrived at your destination but it’s too early to check in to your accommodation, don’t make the mistake of keeping your luggage with you as you explore. Not only does cumbersome baggage make you vulnerable to thieves, but it’s also harder to keep a close eye on multiple possessions. Instead, choose a hotel with a staffed reception desk and ask to leave your belongings in their secure room. If that’s not an option, seek out a paid locker or luggage storage facility, which you’ll often find in central locations such as railway stations. 

Wearing Expensive Clothes or Jewelry

Showing off that you can afford designer labels or expensive items of jewelry turns you into a magnet for pickpockets. By doing so, you’re also suggesting that there may be other items of value inside your pockets or bags. Instead, while traveling, avoid making yourself conspicuous by aiming to blend in rather than stand out. That means leaving your most valuable jewelry at home or in the hotel safe. At the very least, cover labels or jewelry in busy areas with your sleeve or a jacket so they’re not immediately obvious to onlookers.

Riding Crowded Public Transportation

Crowded city buses, trams, and trains attract thieves. Watch out for anyone acting suspiciously — say, someone carrying a large but empty tote bag in which to hide their haul, or someone with props (such as jackets or newspapers) that could conceal ill-gotten gains. While authentic experiences are often a highlight of visiting a new place, you might feel more comfortable taking a taxi (see our tips here) or a sightseeing bus instead. If you do ride the local metro, avoid doing so at peak periods and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Standing on the Edge of the Sidewalk

In busy cities such as London, snatch-and-grab thefts are becoming more common. Would-be thieves use mopeds, scooters, or e-bikes to make a speedy getaway. If you stand on the roadside, you run the risk of losing a purse or phone as they swipe it and move on. To avoid being a victim, step away from the curb. It’s also best to keep your phone tucked out of sight in a secure place or use a case with a strap. Additionally, spread money and cards across multiple bags so that if one is taken, you haven’t lost everything — or better yet, consider wearing a money belt that can be concealed beneath your clothing.

Hanging Your Bag on the Back of the Chair

Many travelers don’t think twice before placing their purse or day pack under a café table or beside their feet. But if you do so, it’s far easier for a pickpocket to slide your belongings away from you. By the time you realize that your bag is gone, the thieves will be, too. Instead, follow travel expert Rick Steves’ advice and loop one of the straps around your ankle or the table leg. Alternatively, keep your bag on your lap and lay a hand over any zipper to prevent it from being opened.