I love traveling, but I am not a big fan of the airports, airplanes and especially the cost.  I just spent the last week visiting my family in Wisconsin and now I am sitting in O’Hare International Airport in Chicago waiting for my connection back to Portland.  I will admit, O’Hare is my least favorite airport, however, in order to get the best deal on flights, I must submit to a connection in Chicago.  I am fortunate this time to not have any delays as I have had to spend the night in Chicago a few times.   The good thing is that when this has happened, the airlines put me up in a hotel and provided food vouchers.  Although it does bring it’s share of frustration when you only get a few hours of sleep before you return to the airport and go through security again and all you really want is to be at your destination.

I really can’t complain about the cost of the flight this time, as I did not have to pay for it.  The last time I visited my family I volunteered to get bumped due to my flight being overbooked.  This worked out well to my advantage as I had an extra day built in to my trip.  By taking the bump I got to spend an extra day with my family and received a substantial voucher.  The voucher paid for this current trip and most my flight for an upcoming trip to San Francisco.  This can be a great option for travelers, especially considering the increase cost of flying.  I would highly recommend this, especially if you are not in a hurry to get to your destination.  It just might pay for your next flight or allow you to take a trip you didn’t plan for in your budget.