The State of Travel in 2021
We’re all dying to travel this year. Many of us had to reschedule trips in 2020 or even cancel them. I was lucky enough to still make it to Europe right before everything shut down, and made it to Mexico during a lull (LOTS of precautions were taken). But now that 2020 is over, multiple vaccines are out for the public, and COVID tests are more easily available with quicker turn arounds, what will travel in 2021 look like?
No one knows. If anyone claims to know, they’re lying. Everyone is guessing. Some may have better guesses than others, but it is just guessing at this point.
Airline Info
I have been very tempted lately to book a flight to Europe for this year with the understanding that I may have to reschedule. THANKFULLY, airlines have been much more lax about change dates and changes in general during COVID. With free changes, you have way more flexibility. Alaska, American, Delta, and United all announced that they’d be permanently eliminating change fees on all flights departing from North America (Canada, USA, Mexico) for all fares except basic economy, so if you go ahead and book, book at least with an economy ticket and book “in pencil, not pen.” Previously, it would cost at least $200 to change the date of your trip, along with any fare differences.
Don’t assume you can get a refund if you decide not to take a flight you’ve booked. While you can change your travel dates for free, you will still have to pay any fare difference.
Remember that, by law, if an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight (like a 2+ hour schedule change) you are entitled to a refund. They will try every trick in the book to not refund you, but keep working it. However, if you decide to not go, even if the reason you don’t want to go is due to a mandatory quarantine, you won’t get a refund.
There are lists of places Americans can travel to right now. The list fluctuates, and the terms change, but it gives you a good idea of where you can travel. Again, I won’t shame you for traveling, but I will shame you if you travel irresponsibly.
COVID Test/Vaccine Info
Testing for COVID has become quicker and quicker, both in wait times for appointments and results. Most places that are opening up for tourism are demanding a negative COVID test within a small window of your departure date. Some are 5 days, some are within 48-72 hours. Get a test as close to your departure as possible while still ensuring time to get the result. The USA is now demanding all people (including citizens) who fly into the US must have a negative COVID test within 72 hours. So if you travel abroad, you still need to get a COVID test on your vacation. Be sure to have a copy of your negative test result to show any agents who may need that information. Some countries are demanding you fill out a health form or questionnaire prior to arriving, similar to a customs form. Bottom line, get tested before your trip no matter what to ensure your own and everyone’s safety. And do not travel if you are sick.
Vaccines are here!! We have a variety of vaccine options out on the market. While America may be vaccinating at a snail’s pace so far compared to the rest of the world, there are vaccines - which is great! Some countries have been debating on whether or not to demand for proof of vaccination before you travel, with gate agents being forced to turn travelers away for not having proof of vaccination OR a negative COVID test.
Final Thoughts
I may be booking a trip soon, but am hesitant. I do believe you can travel safely right now, even if it isn’t the best or smartest thing to do right now. Overall, America is the worst in regards to COVID cases so anywhere is safer than America. There is a lot of “travel shaming” going on right now, which I don’t like but I understand it.
This past year has been hard for EVERYONE. Not having a trip planned already is hard for me. But I think when we come out on the other side, travel and tourism is going to snap back with such a force that everyone is going to be traveling! If you don’t feel comfortable traveling yet, then don’t. If you need a trip, please please please do so safely. Wear your mask, get tested before and after your trip, don’t be in crowds. Just be smart.