While some of us are trying to forget, many will remember the complete meltdown Southwest Airlines experienced the week between Christmas and New Years 2022. Many passengers were left stranded for days, unable to make it to their vacation destination, and worse, left without luggage in unfamiliar destinations without correction in sight. Since then, the airline has jumped into immediate action to rectify these mistakes, and as of January 17, 2023, it has worked to resolve almost all outstanding issues, per a statement made by Southwest CEO and President Bob Jordan. The statement goes on to further outline steps the company is taking to move forward and prevent further issues like this in the future.

But where does that leave us as the consumer? Can we trust Southwest Airlines?

I will start by sharing my open bias towards this airline. I have been a Rapid Rewards loyalty member since 2016, and I still think Southwest offers a great product when it comes to air travel. I am loyal to this airline, and as far as I am concerned, I will travel with them again.

Some of the attributes that make Southwest a standout airline for family travel are:

Reasonable airfares

A “no fees” policy to cancel or modify current reservations

No fees for luggage in addition to items that children and babies require, such as strollers and car seats

Breast pump and milk may be carried on a flight in addition to carry on

“Family Boarding” time when families traveling with a child 6 years and younger may board together at a priority time.

Friendly staff

Personally, I find that Southwest travels to the destinations I frequently visit with multiple time options every day of the week, including nonstop options. As a parent and consumer, I prioritize these factors when booking air travel. Southwest is consistently a contender for my business, and I always enjoy my experience.

That being said, there are a few precautions we can all take as we continue to navigate this post-covid travel world we are living in.

Lower your expectations.

I know nobody likes this one, so I will get it out of the way. I feel this advice applies to all travel and possibly life in general. But air travel is still very unpredictable. If it is not Southwest this week, it will be another airline next week. They have all had their highs and lows and will have more in the future. With the massive volume of daily air travel, we have to expect the unexpected, including travel interruptions.

Have a backup plan

I wish I could promise that your travel will go according to plan and that planning months or even years in advance will ensure a “perfect vacation,” but, again, there are no guarantees. Having a loose or firm backup plan can be a lifesaver if your travel is suddenly interrupted. Maybe that means being willing to drive to your destination or slightly shifting the dates, so you don’t lose any time at your destination. Perhaps, you add an extra day home after your return in the event you do return home late.

SEE ALSO: Planning ahead for smooth summer travels with your little ones ->

Purchase travel protection

Yes, it is an added cost, but travel protection = peace of mind. We hope we never have to use it, but it is so valuable if we do. Depending on the type of travel you take, there are many policy options out there. Credit cards also offer travel protection to their clients. In the case of Southwest, they have refunded guests the value of their airfare, and many were given up to 25,000 Rapid Rewards points as a gesture of good faith.

SEE ALSO: 10 Expert tips for managing travel expectations ->

Remain Calm, Friends

I promise you that losing your cool will do you no good in these situations. I acknowledge the unimaginable frustration and disappointment when your vacation plans are unexpectedly changed or canceled. It’s terrible. However, I consistently find that when you show grace and kindness in these situations, you are treated with respect and sometimes even rewarded. So “Keep Calm and Carry On,”… and maybe take a couple of deep breaths.

SEE ALSO: 5 tips for keeping everyone happy when you travel as a family ->

As we begin 2023 and look forward to the travel adventures ahead, I wish you nothing but memorable and smooth travel. With a little bit of understanding and going the extra mile to prepare, I continue to be cautiously optimistic towards air travel. If you are still wounded from the recent airline drama, consider a family road trip instead.