This article was published in June 2020. The COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation is fluid and travel restrictions may change frequently. Contact a travel advisor for the latest information about your travel plans. Also see our related article: What is it like to stay at a hotel during COVID-19?
Do you have cabin fever? Do you want to escape your home for new scenery? We did! Below are the questions we asked ourselves about what we felt comfortable doing.
Where are you going to be traveling during COVID-19?
In the USA right now, travelers are almost exclusively limited to domestic destinations due to international travel restrictions. Many people are choosing to stay closer to home and drive to a destination. Airlines are still flying though and domestic travel is possible throughout the country. You will find flight options to be more limited. Connecting flights may be required to reach destinations that you are accustomed to flying to nonstop.
If you would still like to fly but want to limit your contact with people (and avoid the TSA security lines), then we recommend flying privately. Private charter flights can be arranged by contacting a travel advisor.
We also recommend looking for a destinations with natural outdoor attractions nearby such as beaches, lakes, rivers, or mountains. You will find it easier to maintain your distance from other people at these locations. However, everyone may be thinking along the same lines, so attractions may be busier than you expected. It may be best to visit early in the day or avoid weekends, depending on the popularity of your destination.
How are you going to get there?
Do you feel comfortable getting on a plane or would you prefer to drive? This will narrow down your destination options.
We recently traveled on our first trip since the pandemic started. Since we only had a weekend, we decided to drive to our destination. One of our favorite activities is to sit by the sea drinking cocktails, so we headed to the beach.
If you are flying, you need to know the requirements of your airline. Some carriers are requiring passengers to wear masks while onboard only and some are requiring you to wear masks in the gate area too.
Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued new guidelines and updates to the security process. You are likely to scan your own boarding pass to limit contact with TSA agents. Also note that the TSA increased the allowable size of liquid hand sanitizer from 3.4 ounces to 12 ounces.
Where are you going to stay?
Would you prefer to stay in a villa, standalone cottage, cabin, or resort? Wherever you decide to stay, be aware of the updated cleaning policies so that you feel comfortable staying there. Hotels increased their cleaning processes by using foggers, electrostatic sprayers, and ultraviolet light technology. However, hotels typically will not clean rooms each day during stays of less than a week.
What amenities are must-haves?
Do you like relaxing in the spa or chilling by the pool? Depending on your location, not all spas and pools are open. Please check on the available amenities before you book so that you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.
In Texas, restaurants are operating at 75% seating capacity or have not opened yet. So, if you are a foodie, check before you go to ensure restaurants are open and make a reservation to guarantee a table. Also, many hotels are not offering room service to limit your contact with people.
Did you know one of the perks for using a travel advisor is that they act as your travel concierge by making dining and spa reservations for you?
Should you be traveling during COVID-19?
While we understand that many people are reluctant, traveling during COVID-19 is still possible and many are choosing to do it. We encourage all travelers to assess their own personal risk level and plan accordingly. Please contact a travel advisor to discuss your specific needs and concerns so that you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.