Recent issues such as system failures, staffing issues and weather catastrophes have caused massive issues with air travel. 

Less than a week ago, travelers saw more than 10,000 flights delayed and more than 1,300 canceled, according to Flight Aware. The issues stemmed from a corrupt file that appears to have interfered with a central database.

If you are looking to take a trip this year, how can you safeguard your plans? And what are the best spots to explore in 2023?

On average, the majority of U.S. flights get where they're going on schedule or close to it. In 2022, 2.57% percent of major airlines' flights were canceled while 77% were on time, according to Transportation Department statistics. However, that 2.5% equates to 144,515 canceled flights.

Interest in travel insurance spiked during the pandemic as travel became increasingly confusing and uncertain. However, while more people might be familiar with benefits that let you cancel because of COVID-19, they might not realize it can help with issues like the Southwest or FAA meltdowns.

It is also helpful to know that travel insurance can be purchased as late as 24 hours before your trip starts.

In addition, a strong U.S. dollar means American vacationers will find more affordable prices in Europe, Japan, Mexico, India and beyond.

News 12's Elizabeth Hashagen was joined by award-winning travel journalist Pauline Frommer, co-president of the Frommer's Guidebooks and Frommers.com, for travel tips.