FEATURE
By Land, By Sea, By Air:
Travel is Back! A
s the world moves into a post-pandemic phase, the travel industry is poised for a comeback. In July 2021, almost two million passengers daily flew the U.S. skies just shy of the pre-pandemic 2.5 million. By comparison, April 2020 saw an industry low of 90,000 air passengers.1 According to the U.S. Travel Association’s Monthly Travel Report for April 2022, air passenger demand continues to improve and was only 12% below March 2019 volume.2 People are looking to get away. Despite inflation and higher gas prices, AAA Travel booking data for Memorial Day 2022 travel – reservations for flights, rental cars, cruises and hotels – were up 122% from 2021. However, it’s fair to say there are some things one should know before jumping back into the travel game. It’s important to take into consideration the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. Here are some tips to keep in mind: • Anticipate the expenses associated with delays and cancelations including the possibility of having to stay longer if stranded. • Pack N95 or KN95 masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and disposable gloves in your carry-on and make sure it is easily accessible. • Notify credit card providers of your travel details (specify location and duration) to reduce the risk of frozen cards due to unusual activity. • Have photos of your vaccination card and other important documents (like your passport) on your phone as a backup. “ A travel boom is looming. But is the industry ready?” by Vik Krishnan, Darren Rivas, and Steve Saxon, July 27, 2021, https://www.mckinsey. com/industries/travel-logistics-and-infrastructure/our-insights/a-travelboom-is-looming-but-is-the-industry-ready 2 “ Monthly Travel Data Report,” April 28, 2022, U.S. Travel Association, https://www.ustravel.org/research/monthly-travel-data-report 1
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• Understand your destination’s COVID-19 restrictions and requirements including if you will need to take a test ahead of leaving and/or returning home. If so, make an appointment for a COVID-19 PCR test at least one month before departure and make sure the date of your results adheres to the timeline set by your destination (i.e., 1 day, 3 days). AAA suggests requesting a QR code from the PCR tester since more destinations require this.
Travel Agents: They’re Back in Style As recent events have shown, travelers benefit from having an expert in their corner when travel plans go awry. An AAA Travel survey found that six in 10 Americans see the benefit of working with a travel agent to plan their upcoming trips. A trusted travel agent can: • Save you time, money AND stress by handling the details, researching any travel restrictions or changes and coordinating plans within your travel group. • Use their extensive training and expertise to provide advice and advocate for you before, during and after a trip. • Match the right travel insurance that meets your specific needs and budget. • Advocate on your behalf when you need to cancel or reschedule travel due to situations beyond your control. • Quickly find alternative flights or accommodations for you if you find yourself stranded in a crowded airport.
Travel Insurance: Protect Your Trip AND Your Wallet The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on Americans’ travel plans. As a result, how they plan and protect those trips has also changed. One-third (31%) of U.S. travelers say they are more likely to purchase travel insurance for their trips planned between now and the end of 2022, specifically due to the pandemic.
