Essential Tips for Planning Your 2021 Holiday Travel

After a quiet holiday travel season in 2020, the outlook for this year appears much brighter. With an increasing number of Americans vaccinated against COVID-19 and vaccines for children on the horizon, many are eager to reclaim a sense of normalcy. Holiday travel is projected to be significantly busier than in recent years, so how can you best prepare for the bustling season ahead?

When Should You Start Making Travel Arrangements?

Ideally, you should have started planning yesterday! With a surge in travel demand, airlines may not be fully equipped to handle the influx of passengers this holiday season. Remember, airlines have faced layoffs and retired larger aircraft, and with new vaccine mandates, staffing shortages could pose additional challenges. Delaying your booking might leave you with limited flight options. Plus, it’s a well-known fact that booking early often yields better prices, so don’t delay if you’re set on flying!

Is Driving Still a Better Option?

Last year, many families opted for road trips due to travel restrictions. Driving provides a sense of safety from crowded airports and planes. However, if you plan to rent a vehicle, be warned that the pandemic has complicated the car rental process. Companies like Hertz faced bankruptcy and sold off vehicles, leading to a shortage in rentals. As demand has surged, rental costs have skyrocketed, with averages reaching $123/day in June, excluding taxes and fees. If you’re comfortable driving your own car long distances, it might be the most convenient choice.

How to Stay Updated on Travel Requirements

As destinations both domestic and international welcome tourists again, it’s vital to stay informed about travel requirements. Knowing what to expect can provide peace of mind. Be sure to check mask mandates, vaccination and quarantine requirements, and COVID transmission rates for your destination. The U.S. Department of State offers a regularly updated database on country-specific COVID-19 information, including travel advisories and visa requirements.

Key Reminders for Your 2021 Holiday Travel Planning

If all this seems overwhelming, don’t worry—it’s manageable! Here’s a checklist to guide your planning:

Book Early: Use platforms like Hopper and Google Flights to monitor when to secure the best deals.
Prepare for Shortages: Be aware that shortages exist across the board—flights, rental cars, and even luggage. Flexibility is key.
Consider Travel Insurance: Read the fine print carefully. Ensure it covers cancellations and changes due to unforeseen circumstances, like a global pandemic.
Choose Flexible Options: Avoid non-refundable bookings to allow for any changes in plans.
Stay Informed: Regularly check mask mandates and COVID-19 requirements for your destination.
Familiarize Yourself with Airline Rules: Understand the latest regulations regarding social distancing, mask mandates, and other policies.

Helpful Travel Tips for Parents

Gate Check: Minimize hassle by gate checking your stroller and car seat, making it easier to navigate the airport with little ones.
Food Through TSA: You can bring food through TSA (but not drinks), so pack your kids’ favorite snacks for the journey. Items like Goldfish and fruit snacks are usually popular!
Wireless Headphones: Consider wireless headphones for children to avoid tangled cords.

Traveling during the holidays was already a source of stress before COVID-19, and the ever-changing situation can heighten anxiety, especially for parents. However, with proper planning and a positive outlook, this holiday season can still be enjoyable. Personally, I’m relieved to see things improving and would gladly take $400 flights over another lockdown!

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Summary

As holiday travel ramps up, planning ahead is essential. Early bookings, awareness of rental car shortages, and understanding destination requirements can ease the process. Parents should take advantage of helpful travel hacks to navigate airports smoothly. With the right preparation, this holiday travel season can still be a success!