WASHINGTON — Fast action when flights are cancelled can make the difference between having a happy holiday and perhaps sleeping on an airport floor.

Keeping up with social media could prove helpful:

More cancelled-flight tips from AAA Mid-Atlantic include:

• Call airline reservations immediately, even while racing for the ticket counter.
• Try contacting airlines for help using social media.
• Download the airline’s mobile app.
• Carry a written list of important phone numbers.
• Put phone chargers and medications in carry-on luggage.
• Include a cellphone number when making reservations in order to receive text alerts.
• Be aware of alternative transportation options.

Unforeseen circumstances of all sorts also can cause people to miss flights. AAA Travel recommends buying trip cancellation insurance — although that usually only provides refunds if someone is sick or has a death in the immediate family.

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