If you’re a traveler like me you’re probably chomping at the bit to travel again. You’re ready to explore new destinations, try some new cuisine or enjoy a drink on the beach. I typically have at least two vacations on the books at any given time so the last several months have been weird for me. Not only because I had to cancel our Spring Break trip scheduled in March but I was reluctant to plan any other trips because of all the unknowns with COVID.
If you are ready to start traveling again I have some tips for you to think about before you plan your next trip. If you’re not ready to travel yet, pin this article for later.
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Post-Lockdown Travel Tips
1. Consider a Staycation
If you want to ease into your first trip then a Staycation may be the way to go. Maybe that means you stay home and plan a few day trips to some new places or head a few hours away from home for a weekend and explore a new city.
2. Plan a Shorter Trip
If you’re nervous about traveling then planning a shorter trip is probably best. That could look like a road trip to a neighboring state or a quick flight for a long weekend getaway. I live in Minnesota so I’d love to drive to Door County, Wisconsin or Upper Michigan for a long weekend. If I was going to fly somewhere for a long weekend I think Colorado would be my first choice. It’s amazing and just a quick flight from MSP.
3. How About a Road Trip
Maybe you’re ready for a longer trip, but you still don’t want to fly. Road Trips are super popular right now. I have several friends who’ve road-tripped out to South Dakota this summer. You could rent an RV or plan out your route and book hotels or Airbnbs along the way.
Laurie2 and I took an RV road trip adventure in July. We hit eight states and made several stops along the way – some planned and some spur of the moment. See the highlights below or on our Youtube channel.
4. Book Flexible Flights
Luckily airlines are becoming increasingly flexible with their booking policies. Delta, United, and American Airlines have all decided to waive change fees but make sure you read the fine print. For example – Delta doesn’t waive fees on their basic economy tickets.
5. Wear Your Mask
Most places are requiring masks these days, but even if it’s not required you should probably still wear a mask if you’re in a busy place like an airport or train station or if there’s a lot of people around.
6. Pack the Essentials
Here are a few things to add to your packing list:
- Extra masks
- Hand Sanitizer
- Disinfecting Wipes
- Gloves
- Small container of laundry detergent to wash masks
7. Research Your Destination
Does your destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers? You’ll definitely want to find out before you make plans to visit. Maybe you need to arrive with a negative COVID test result or you may be required to quarantine after you get home, depending on what state you live in and what state your visited. I’ve even heard of some companies requiring their employees to quarantine after they get back from vacations. If this seems overwhelming to you consider hiring a travel agent to help you with your plans.
8. Do You Need Trip Insurance
My answer is always YES! Working in the travel industry, Laurie2 and I have heard many horror stories about people who didn’t have travel insurance and something happened during their vacation. My health insurance comes with a huge deductible so I always get travel insurance when I travel in case I get hurt or sick. Keep in mind your travel insurance may not cover all COVID situations because it’s considered a foreseen event. Make sure you read the policy carefully before you purchase. If you have questions about travel insurance or need to purchase it, Laurie2 can help you out.
9. Pick Your Accommodations Wisely
Just like with flights you’ll want to choose accommodations that have flexible cancellation policies in case you have to cancel or reschedule your trip. You may also want to research hotels and see what their new cleaning policies are, if they’re requiring masks, etc.
10. Choose Nature
I’m not the most outdoorsy person (#highmaintenance) but choosing a trip that involves outdoor activities just makes sense right now. This could mean hiking, beaches, biking, canoeing/kayaking or maybe just exploring a smaller town instead of a big city. It’s easier to socially distance and you can hopefully take a mask break when you’re outside hiking or enjoying nature.
Are you ready to travel post lockdown?
What are your thoughts on traveling now? Are you planning a trip or will you wait until things feel a little more back to normal? You can also read Laurie2’s post about travel shaming here.
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