Be Travel Ready with These Five Tips

Apr 01, 2021 | Aon

After a year of staying at home, Americans are ready to roam. In fact, nearly 60% said they’re likely to travel for a vacation in 2021, according to a recent survey by the American Hotel and Lodging Association.

In some ways, as we get back out into the world, we’ll all be a little like novice travelers again – navigating a new world of protocol and etiquette designed to help keep us safe as we reunite with life on the road. As you plan and prepare for your own journeys, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Remote Will Rule. While cities like New York are slowly seeing tourism rebound, Americans are still showing a preference for more remote and private getaways that will enable social distancing. If this type of vacation appeals to you, book sooner rather than later and be prepared to pay a little more because of high demand.

So Will the Road. Like last summer, consumers are expected to opt more for car or RV trips – with a broader return to flight projected for the third and fourth quarter, depending on the pace and scope of vaccine adoption in the United States. So steer clear of traveling around the traditional road trip holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day if you want a more peaceful, less congested journey.

Status Will Matter. Your COVID and vaccine status – that is. If you’re crossing state lines or even heading to a major city, you may need to produce evidence of a negative COVID test or face a quarantine. And some travel suppliers, like cruise lines and airlines, may require proof of a COVID vaccine. Make sure you understand the rules before you book your trip.

Flexibility Will Mean Different Things. Cancellation and other policies for hotels, airlines, vacation rentals and more have evolved since March 2020 – and will continue to do so over the next few months. Be sure you have the most up-to-date information on these important terms and conditions and confirm that they are still current when you finalize your plans.

Extra Protection Will Be Important. Consumers today are naturally looking for ways to protect their financial investment, health and belongings from the risks associated with travel. Enter travel protection, which can help address all of the above. Policies can vary widely – from basic plans covering specific risks to benefit-rich plans tailored for the specific trip. That variety means there’s an option that meets just about everyone’s unique travel needs, whether you’re taking a riverboat cruise on the Columbia or staying at an exclusive coastal resort. A little research can help you select the best policy for your journey.

The Aon Travel Takeaway? Beth Godlin, president of the Aon Affinity Travel Practice says, “After a year of essentially being ‘grounded’, consumers are craving new experiences and destinations. The travel industry is ready to welcome them with new policies, procedures and travel protection plans designed to help them feel more safe and secure as they go back out into the world.”

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