When it all goes wrong – your flight is cancelled, you lose your passport or you are arrested – you’ll know what to do

You’ve been carefully planning your big trip for months and you’re ready to go . What could possibly go wrong now? Plenty, actually. The Philippine Travel Agencies Association offers some quick fixes to problems commonly encountered while travelling:

When your flight is delayed.  If you’re using a regular ticket, ask your airline to endorse you to another airline. Inform your hotel and the people you’re meeting about any changes without delay.

When you have to cancel or reschedule your trip.  Call your travel agent or airline. There is usually a last-minute penalty for cancellation, but it can be waived for valid reasons, such as sickness or death in the family, with the presentation of pertinent documents.

When you lose your baggage.  If you lose your luggage while flying, seek help from airline personnel and present your luggage tags. If the airline locates your luggage, ask to have it sent to your hotel. If you lose your baggage outside the airport, inform local authorities.

When you lose your travel documents.  Present photocopies of your documents if you have them. Be prepared for delays. If you lose your plane ticket, inform your travel agent or airline so they can send you substitute ticket. If you lose your passport or visa, you can go no further on your trip. Visit the nearest embassy for your country to arrange for temporary travel documents.

When you have too much luggage.  Weed out what you can leave behind and what you absolutely have to bring home. Be ready to part with some of your luggage to keep within your weight allowance or to pay for excess baggage.

When you run into trouble with authorities abroad.  Get in touch with your country’s embassy or consulate officers immediately.