The flight left Los Angeles International Airport about 20 minutes late. As it neared New York, John F. Kennedy Airport was experiencing dangerously strong winds of 60 mph or more and the plane was forced to divert to Stewart International Airport, about 70 miles northwest of the city.

The plane stayed on the tarmac at Stewart for more than six hours as the pilot and crew monitored the weather and seemed to promise a nearing departure again and again – and the passengers grew increasingly frustrated. (click HERE for original article)

I have traveled thousands and thousands of miles and have been stuck on the tarmac, diverted to other airports, delayed in airports…you name it. If you travel, it’s only a matter of time before something happens to delay you. Are you prepared for that? Would you be able to endure a “stranded on the tarmac for hours” nightmare? No food, no water, antsy passengers.

Whether I am traveling alone, or with my grandson or husband I ALWAYS pack non-perishable snacks in a carry-on backpack. As soon as I get on the other side of security, I buy a bottle of water for each person I am traveling with. That person keeps it in their backpack. You can also take an empty water bottle and fill it somewhere at the airport.

If you have special medication or medical needs, plan on at least a six hour flight delay. Take extra medications and food. If you have small children, plan on a six hour flight delay and make sure you have enough diapers, wet wipes, formula, water, food, medications and entertainment. Will you need any personal hygiene or feminine protection items if you are delayed?

Keep your cell phone and laptop charged.

Always carry some cash on you. At least $20 in small bills should do the trick.

Again…DO NOT put these items in your checked baggage. That will do you no good while you are stranded in an airport or on the tarmac.

Evaluate your individual needs and plan for that.

SAFETY NOTE: Normally sane people can behave totally insane when they are in a stressful situation. There are reports of people on this flight panicking, and taking rationed food that was not theirs. Pay attention to what is going on around you. Assess your situation. And if there is a food shortage I recommend you not broadcast that you had the foresight to plan ahead and are fully stocked with food and water. If you need to eat, you may want to go to the bathroom and eat something quickly.

Millions of families are going to jump in the car and hit the highways. They will be focused on one thing and one thing only…Grandmas Pumpkin Pie.

Little thought will be given to car except making sure it has fuel. It seems every year we hear of tragic incidents of motorists getting lost or stranded. What if there is an accident and you are stuck on the highway for hours. I remember one year Interstate 5 was close in southern Oregon due to snow and hundreds of people were stranded for a couple days. They had to send emergency supplies in via snowmobiles.

ALWAYS check weather and road conditions. The Weather Channel has up to date forecasts. Program the road condition numbers for the states you will be traveling through, into your cell phone.

Just a little preparation can make a world of difference. Here’s a little excerpt from my “Car Kits” Page
Be sure to check out the rest of the list.

Water-ALWAYS carry a couple gallons of bottled water in your vehicle. Cycle your water regularly. Watch for overheating in the summertime and freezing in the winter.
Blanket-A warm blanket can come in handy for a variety of reasons. Fold it small and tight, put it in a plastic garbage bag and just forget about it.
Food – Pick foods that will not be affected by temperature extremes such as crackers, granola bars and so on. Rotate these foods on a regular basis.
Wetwipes-For a quick clean up.
Toilet Paper – It’s worth a millions dollars when you need it and don’t have it.

A basic car safety kit is always advisable go to my “Car Kits” Page or Click HERE for a great selection of ready to use kits.

Don’t forget to throw in some fun activities for the kids.

Safe travels and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Debbie