Summarize this article in one sentence.
Use your computer or mobile device to check into your flight as soon as the twenty-four hour window opens. This will give you a better chance of not getting bumped off the plane if a delay occurs and your flight becomes oversold, and it will also reduce your time spent in line. If you fly often, then you might consider spending a little extra for a service like TSA pre-check, which allows you to skip the long lines and use a special, shorter line at check-in. This service requires a background check and there is an $85 fee. Having travel insurance is a huge help in case of a flight delay or cancellation. Pick a package that covers what you need, such as medical, travel protection, and baggage protection. Many policies will help cover your costs of a hotel room, meals, or other various expenses. Make sure to purchase your insurance well before your trip, as any storm systems that occur before your purchase will mostly likely not be covered. Make sure you’re the first to know about any changes by signing up for instant notifications from the airport. This way, you can make arrangements quickly if a delay or cancellation does occur.  Along with signing up for official airport notifications, download a third-party app that will notify you of delays. Sometimes third-party apps actually relay information about delays faster than the official airline website, so try downloading several such as TripIt Pro or App in the Air.  If you’ve arranged for relatives or friends to pick you up from the airport, suggest these options to them so they can receive live updates on any flight schedule changes. Bring a few extra doses of prescription medication, pairs of underwear and socks, and maybe a laundry soap sheet to wash your clothes if the delay stretches on.  Always make sure to write down everything you will need for your trip before you pack. This will save you time and help to ensure that you pack all of the necessary items. It is also a good idea to look up the airport’s guidelines for how to pack certain items, such as liquids and toiletries. In case you end up stranded in weather that you weren’t planning for, make sure to dress in layers to keep warm or cool. If you end up stuck at an airport or on the tarmac, you’ll want to have some food and water with you. Pack some snacks and water in your carry-on in case of an emergency. Make sure to empty any water bottles before going through security, then fill them up in the terminal area. You can call the airline or check flight status online. If you notice delays online, contact the airline directly for more information. If weather is bad, flights into or out of the airport will be affected. Icy conditions, stormy weather and extreme weather events could definitely cause some problems. If bad weather is forecasted during your flight, contact the airport for more information and to check if they’ve announced any cancellations or delays due to the weather so you can reschedule.
Check in early. Get travel insurance. Sign up for airport notifications. Pack a few extra days’ worth of essentials just in case. Pack layers in your carry-on for any kind of weather. Bring your own water and snacks. Check the status of your flight before going to the airport. Monitor the weather.