10 Travel Tips to Remember During the COVID-19 Pandemic

As we continue to deal with and manage life post COVID-19, it’s hard to keep track of the dos and don’ts of travel with so many on-going changes that have directly impacted millions of travelers and the travel industry. So, during a recent trip to Massachusetts, I assembled a list of tips that I would want someone to give me before planning getaway, whether it be a domestic trip in the U.S. or an international vacation to a country that still allows Americans to cross its borders. Here are 10 tips that you should consider before traveling via airplane or staying in a hotel.

1.  Planning ahead is a must. Check out the travel guidelines on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website and always monitor the U.S. Department of State’s website for their updated list of travel advisories and restrictions. I’m also partial to Travel + Leisure’s Guide to All 50 States’ COVID-19 Restrictions, which is updated regularly.

2.  Travel to places you feel comfortable. Some travelers will feel safer visiting a destination that requires COVID-19 test results 72 hours before their departure date versus traveling to a destination that has relaxed or no travel restrictions at all. 

3.  Get a COVID-19 test before you go. It’s also important to accurately calculate the approximate time you anticipate receiving your test results. It can be a bit of a guessing game but moving your travel dates may be necessary to ensure that you get your negative test results back before you head to the airport.

4.  Find out how often an airline’s planes are cleaned. An informed decision about an airline’s safety/cleanliness guidelines before you book a flight is essential. It will not only give you an idea of what you can expect from the airline, but it will also provide you with insight on how you can prepare ahead for your flight.

5.  Assess a hotel’s guidelines to keep guests safe. In addition to airport safety, a hotel’s safety protocols are just as important before booking a room. Like that saying from the G.I. JOE cartoon…“knowing is half the battle.”

6.  Pack anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizer. I recommend cleaning all high-contact areas in a rental car, around an airplane or train seat, and in hotel room even if the area has been cleaned. Keep a travel size bottle of hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean at all times.

7.  Don’t be a hangry passenger. Although airport restaurants are open, you can pack snacks or eat before you head to the airport. It also takes the guesswork out of the travel process if you’re not sure whether there’s food and/or beverage served onboard your flight. 

8.  Take the stress out of planning your trip. Consult a travel agent to make the trip-planning process easier while you focus on the fun. A travel advisor has established relationships with airlines, hotels, car rental companies and more! So, he or she can tell you the safest places to eat, play and stay.  

 9.  Read the fine print before purchasing travel insurance. Remember just because you buy it doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to recoup all costs associated with your trip if you decide to cancel due to COVID-19. Be aware that purchasing travel insurance that allows you to cancel for any reason (C.F.A.F.) can be expensive. For more info about the pros and cons for buying travel insurance, I recommend the New York Times article, “Travel Insurance: Is it Worth It?” 

10. Don’t become a statistic. Get tested when you return home from your trip, self-quarantine for 14 days, or at least limit your social interactions to ensure that you keep your family and friends safe.