After more than a year of lockdown and travel restrictions, things are starting to open back up, and people are itching to get out and see the world again. With vaccinations on the rise and outbreaks declining, vacations and trips are now starting to be planned and anticipated. You may have to consider more than just where to get gas or stay this year, however.
Travel is still more complicated than in 2019. Different states have different restrictions that need to be accounted for in your plans. Hotels may not be offering the morning buffet yet. Planning travel outside of the home country is also still very challenging and, in some cases, impossible.
Here are some tips to help with your vacation plans in 2021.
1. Outdoor Vacations
While outdoor spaces can be crowded, increasing your risk of transmission, they are generally safer than indoor venues. When planning your vacation in 2021, consider a fun camping trip to a national or state park rather than a busy and packed amusement park. Remember, even though you may be fully vaccinated, your kids and other people may not. Also, if you’re shopping for awesome cruise deals, be aware of their policies. There’s no time like the present to make wonderful memories seeing the natural beauty of your country.
2. Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels
If you do choose a city as your destination or just trying to get from point A to point B, consider trying to book a vacation rental instead of a hotel. Many towns and cities have apartments, condos, or even cabins available to rent for the day or week. They may be a little more expensive than a hotel but typically offer more amenities like full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and even jacuzzi tubs. They also offer more privacy and separation. You won’t be mingling and passing people in the hallways or at the buffet breakfast in the morning (if they even serve one).
3. Planning for Illness
A tricky logistical issue this year is what to do if you or a family member gets sick. It’s not something you can always foresee, but it is something you can plan for. When making any reservations, make sure there is a way to back out of it without too much penalty. That way, when Junior comes down sick a day before the trip, you don’t have to worry about losing the reservation money.
Likewise, have an escape plan if someone gets sick while on the road. If you’re driving, that might not be a big deal. You can just hit the road for home. But if you are flying, you will have to have a plan B for a 10-14 day quarantine.
It’s also good to know where all the hospitals and medical clinics are along your route. This holds true for travel at any time but now more than ever. Call ahead to clinics at destinations or check with your insurance company to make sure you know where they take your insurance.
4. Pack a Covid Kit
Aside from the standard snacks, car games, and electronics, this year, you should pack a pandemic travel kit. Most places still require masks for entry, and if you’re from outside the area, this is extra important.
Remember also to pack your vitamins along with your other medications. A thermometer and O2 meter are also good ideas. Throw in some games or movies just in case you get quarantined somewhere; this will help pass the time.
5. Call Ahead
The last thing you want is to travel halfway across the country only to find that your destination is closed because of the pandemic. It is essential that you call ahead to all your stops to make sure they are open and to find what, if any, restrictions they have.
Final Thoughts
Taking a trip in 2021 is totally doable with a little planning. Taking care to be informed of and follow CDC guidelines will help you stay safe on your vacation. Remember to be flexible and respect the rules of the businesses you stop at, and you will be making treasured memories in no time.
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