murphy--as others have said, the key is being prepared and know what is available on other airlines. If it's an airline issue, versus a weather issue, they have to try to fix it for you, unless you're on something like Spirit, which doesn't cooperate with anyone. For whatever reason, airline employees seem to not know what is available and/or don't want to be bothered in some circumstances to get you where you need to be, if it involves flights on another airline. Their 'go-to' position normally seems to be to tell you to wait and take a flight the next day, doing you out of a day of vacation!! Also, if possible, if there is a huge line for the counter, get on the phone and call the airlines directly and try to get the situation resolved on the phone if possible. Also, as Sammy said, and we always do this, even if we don't have a connection--pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag, so if your suitcase goes on a different trip than you do! It happens! Hopefully you will have no issues, and your preparation will not be needed, but better to be prepared!