Last week, my Amtrak train to a dinner given by NYC ‘s Explorers’ Club was once again over an hour late. I followed my own advice and called up Amtrak’s customer relations. After describing the details of the trip, I was told that I’ll be receiving a travel certificate to use on another trip.

What other ways can you cope with train delays? Vacations By Rail, a Chicago-based specialty travel company offers up the following tips for managing train delays and service disruptions.

1. Insure your trip. Before you depart on your train vacation, purchase trip protection which insures your travel investment in the event that unforeseen circumstances cause your trip to be canceled, delayed or interrupted. In many instances, this valuable coverage can be purchased up to 48 hours prior to departure.

2. Know before you go. Call Amtrak in advance for the status of your train as well as for any service alerts. Travelers may also visit their web site to find the same information.

3. Compensation for alternate and altered travel. A canceled train doesn’t mean the end of a vacation—just a different adventure. Amtrak may substitute alternate transportation when a train is canceled or, in the instance of shorter delays, provide overnight accommodations. Both scenarios allow travelers to apply for a refund for service downgrades. In some instances, Amtrak may move travelers to a different train route, in which case the original ticket price may be protected if alternate travel is more expensive. In all instances, travelers should keep their train tickets and receipts which will assist them when contacting Amtrak’s Customer Relations Department.

4. Contact Passenger Services for missed connections. Travelers who miss their train connection resulting in a forced overnight stay due to their train’s late arrival should ask on-site Passenger Services—available at most major train stations—for a hotel room which will, at the very least, make their delay a bit more comfortable.

5. Contact Customer Relations upon your return home. After your vacation has come to a close, contact Amtrak’s Customer Relations Department. Remember: “You’ll catch more bees with honey than vinegar,” or so the saying goes. The Customer Relations Department controls the amount of transportation credit travelers receive so try to be especially calm and patient when relaying travel woes. Travelers should ask for their credit to be kept on file, if possible, rather than receiving a transportation voucher thereby making it much easier to redeem. Travelers wishing to put their concerns in writing should call Amtrak Customer Relations to obtain a case number to include in their letter. Customer Relations can also be of assistance when reporting equipment problems relating to onboard sleeping accommodations, restrooms and general onboard conditions, often providing future travel credits.

This company says that the best advice for all travelers—delayed, disrupted or not: Keep a good sense of humor and enjoy the adventure.