Key Considerations for Planning Your 2021 Holiday Travel

After a lackluster travel season in 2020, the outlook for holiday travel in 2021 is promising. With a higher number of Americans vaccinated against COVID-19 and kids’ vaccines on the horizon, many people are eager to resume their regular activities. This holiday season is anticipated to be busier than the last two, so how can you effectively prepare for the busy travel period?

When Should You Begin Your Travel Arrangements?

The answer is simple: as soon as possible! Many travelers are ready to book their flights, but airlines may not be fully equipped to handle the surge in demand this year. With previous layoffs, the retirement of larger aircraft, and potential staffing shortages due to vaccine mandates, flights could quickly become scarce if you delay your booking. Additionally, it’s widely recognized that booking earlier can lead to better prices. So, if flying is your preferred mode of travel, don’t procrastinate!

Is Driving Still the Better Option?

Last year, many families chose to drive instead of fly, feeling that road trips offered a safer alternative to crowded planes. While driving minimizes exposure to others, it may not be as straightforward this year if you intend to rent a vehicle. The pandemic has complicated the car rental process, causing shortages that have driven prices up. In June, rental car prices peaked at $123 per day, excluding taxes and fees. If you’re comfortable taking your own vehicle on a long drive, that can provide peace of mind for those concerned about crowds.

How to Stay Updated on Travel Requirements

Numerous destinations, both domestic and international, have reopened for tourism. Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. It’s essential to stay informed about mask mandates, vaccination or quarantine requirements, and COVID-19 transmission rates at your destination. The U.S. Department of State regularly updates its database with country-specific COVID-19 information, travel advisories, and visa requirements.

Key Points to Remember for Your 2021 Holiday Travel Planning

If all this information feels overwhelming, don’t worry—it’s manageable! Here’s a checklist for your holiday travel preparations:

Plan Ahead: Start your arrangements immediately. Use platforms like Hopper and Google Flights to monitor price alerts.
Prepare for Shortages: There are shortages across the board—be it rental cars, flights, or luggage. Be ready to pay more or adjust your plans accordingly.
Invest in Travel Insurance: Read the fine print carefully; not all travel insurance covers what you may expect. Make sure it includes cancellation and change coverage, particularly in the event of a pandemic.
Avoid Non-Cancellable Bookings: Only book flexible options to allow for any necessary changes.
Verify Destination Requirements: Double-check your destination’s current mask mandates, vaccination, and quarantine rules.
Know Your Airline’s Policies: Familiarize yourself with your airline’s rules, as many protocols have changed since the pandemic began.

Travel Tips for Parents

Gate Check: If traveling with a baby or toddler, take advantage of gate-checking your stroller or car seat to make navigating the airport easier.
Pack Food: While beverages aren’t allowed through TSA, food is. Bring along your kids’ favorite snacks for the journey.
Wireless Headphones: Consider investing in wireless headphones for kids to avoid tangles and make travel more enjoyable.

Holiday travel can be stressful, especially for parents, but with careful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can enjoy a smoother experience this season. Personally, I’m optimistic about the upcoming travel opportunities and prefer $400 flights to another lockdown any day!

For more tips and insights, check out our other blog post on home insemination kits and for authoritative guidance, visit Make A Mom.

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Summary

Planning your holiday travel for 2021 requires early preparation, awareness of travel requirements, and flexibility due to potential shortages. Familiarize yourself with airline policies and destination mandates to ensure a smooth experience. With proper planning, you can make the most of this holiday season.