Less than 10% of Americans received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, but that fact hasn’t stopped many from getting excited about their post-pandemic life (in particular) the governors of Texas and Mississippi, but that’s a separate problem). After a year of lockdown, we all seem to feel cooped up: Loud a survey 49% of Americans, managed by The Points Guys in partnership with YouGov, look forward to receiving the vaccine specifically so they can travel safely again.
The excitement is justified. Planning a trip isn’t just about getting away – “vacation expectation” is important Form of self-care. A short vacation to look forward to can help us combat negative thoughts about the present with positive thoughts about the future. Because the vaccine increases the chance of safer travel sooner, it’s not too early to start planning your next trip – provided you get it right. Here are some important things to consider when creating your hopeful vacation plans for 2021.
Note the travel restrictions
The entire United States is currently listed as high risk Procurement area COVID-19. Because of this, only a select number of countries accept American tourists – CNN does compiled a list. Use this list as a starting point as you start planning your trips after vaccination.
Note that travel restrictions are different for each destination, even if a particular country accepts US visitors. Some restrictions are stricter than others. For example, Barbados previously opened its doors to Americans who want to work from home in a tropical area. It is Travel regulations US visitors must stay in a government-approved hotel or resort and wear “an electronic tracking bracelet.” The Barbadian government also requires extensive testing that may affect your ability to leave your hotel in the first place. You want to make sure you can enjoy your trip and quarantine at a government issued hotel probably isn’t the vacation you’re hoping for.
You should also choose a location that does not require a negative test result when you are ready to re-enter the US as the testing features in other countries may be unpredictable and The CDC’s Ravel quarantine rules will still apply whether or not you are vaccinated. When you return from the US Virgin IslandsFor example, a negative test result is recommended before you travel home, but this is not required by the federal government.
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Be prepared for COVID travel
Although the CDC still recommends postponing the trip until it is safer, they are offering useful tips for travel during the pandemic.
“Bring extra accessories like masks and hand sanitizer,” suggests the CDC. It’s a good idea to create your own travel kit with single-use latex gloves, extra masks, hand sanitizer, wipes, and sanitizer spray. You can also include items like face shield, hand soap, and other disinfectants. If you’re flying, don’t bring aerosol cans and make sure your items meet carry-on requirements so they are easily accessible during your trip.
The CDC also recommends getting a full vaccination before you leave Wait two weeks after your second dose of a two-dose vaccine. As the country moves through the Vaccination phasesThere are opportunities for more people to receive the vaccine. Therefore, plan your trip later in the year – for late summer or early fall – to increase the likelihood that all members of your travel party will be vaccinated by the day you leave.
Also, plan to be tested within 72 hours of your flight. To avoid last minute complications, plan this down to the hour. If your flight departs at 3 p.m., make sure your test is scheduled a maximum of 72 hours in advance.
Know the cancellation policy
Some companies still have special cancellation policies to deal with the uncertainties of COVID-19. Forbes recently published a “Master list“From flight change and cancellation conditions, reporting:
Note that if your flight departs from, arrives or crosses the United States, the airline will cancel your flight US Department of TransportationYou’re eligible for a cash refund, period. This policy also covers flights where major changes are made, such as: B. adding a connection or changing the flight plan by more than two hours.
More generous cancellation policies can alleviate your worries about last minute changes, but you have to pay extra for them fully refundable Options on your flights and stays won’t hurt either.
The most important thing is to have a contingency plan. Despite the dangers, my family and I planned a trip to the Caribbean last summer. When travel restrictions changed we had to cancel at the last minute but were able to switch gears and booked a trip to Martha’s Vineyard instead. We planned ahead, knew flight return policies, and chose an Airbnb with a mild cancellation policy. Our careful planning ensured that despite the last minute upheavals, we could still spend some time away.
So if you do need to get away, you have another vacation destination, closer to home, as a backup. If you have to cancel, you still have a vacation to look forward to.
