COVID-19 will have a lasting impact on how we travel in the next year and years to come. In fact, just like major terrorist acts 20 years ago changed the way we conducted airport and travel security, so will the COVID-19 pandemic affect our health & safety precautions when we travel.
Many of us are itching to travel after a year in our homes. No matter how bad our cabin fever is, we still have to take into account certain factors when planning our next trip:
Travel Tips: Keep the Habits Post-COVID
Some of the new habits we learned from COVID-19 are essential for travel.
Regularly wash your hands.
We all realized that we were not washing our hands often or thoroughly enough. We should make the new standards we’ve learned in the last year a permanent one, especially when traveling.
Personal protective equipment
Masks are essential for travel, regardless of whether your destination requires them or not. It’s impossible to predict the conditions that will exist in your destination or what protective gear businesses may need. You shouldn’t throw away your mask just because you are vaccinated or some places don’t need it.
Keep things clean and sanitized.
Hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes will also likely be around for a long time. When you travel, pack your supply and be prepared to use it as needed. Do not assume that a clean hotel room or car rental is hygienic. Take a few minutes to ensure you are protected from any potential pathogens.
Distance yourself from the problem area.
In the next year, you may not have to maintain a 6-foot distance from others. However, many people will appreciate it if you allow them to breathe. Even if you’re both healthy and vaccinated, you can still leave a bit of space to show that you care about each other’s safety and health. When traveling, this little gesture of goodwill will bring you extra hospitality.
Travel Tips Post-COVID
Planning is essential in a world post-pandemic. Planning is a great way to protect your health and your wealth. It can also bring you joy and satisfaction. Don’t deprive yourself of the enjoyment that comes from anticipating and planning your vacation.
Travel insurance is a good idea.
The different types of insurance can be confusing. When you are going away from home, consider travel insurance. Look for policies that offer cancellation coverage. A good policy may cover your trip 100% if you cancel it due to a coronavirus or 75% for any other reason. Your insurance should cover any unexpected medical costs you incur on your trip. This is especially important if you are doing anything active, like hiking or rock climbing.
Proof of vaccination is required.
Before you go on your trip, get vaccinated. You may need to prove your vaccinations, especially if you are going abroad. You want to protect yourself and your family, but you also want to save the locals.
Research on your own
Do your research before you go. When you arrive or when you return, will you be quarantined? You may not want to go to that destination if you have to quarantine yourself for two weeks after arrival. Find a place that is safe and won’t lock you up in a room when you arrive. We have limited vacation time. Consider whether the place you are visiting will require quarantine upon your return. We’ve already spent too much time in lockdown. Let’s not spend any more time behind closed doors.
Travel agents: How to find a reliable one
Travel agents could be returning. COVID is a great way to make a travel agent even more valuable. A travel agent can provide you with financial protection and expert advice. If your trip encounters unanticipated problems, your agent is a great resource to make last-minute itinerary changes.
Reservations in advance are recommended.
Reservations are more important than ever before. You can’t expect to walk in at theme parks or attractions such as museums. They will limit the number of people that they can fit into limited spaces. You should make your reservations early to avoid being turned away at the entrance of your destination.
Book your flight early to avoid disappointment.
If you are planning to fly, book your seat as soon as possible. Before you book a flight, check the cancellation policy (or purchase travel insurance, as we discussed above).
Plan with flexibility
Flexibility will be required in the future. Even if you have a detailed plan, unexpected delays or closures may change your plans. It’s important to have a backup activity or destination that won’t blow your budget.
Prepare to travel again.
The travel industry is said to contribute 10% to the global economy. Don’t let the pandemic keep you from traveling and meeting new people and places. You can protect yourself from financial losses and health risks by planning and taking smart precautions.
Credit Cards can be a valuable part of your vacation. They allow you to shop safely and provide convenience and protection against fraud. If your credit card debt is too high, and you don’t have enough credit to cover travel expenses, it’s time to act. Pay down the debt to free up credit to use on your next vacation.
Credit.org offers free, non-profit debt coaching that will help you develop a plan for paying off your debts. After you have paid off your debts, you will be able to use your credit card responsibly at home and on vacation.
