By Land, By Sea, By Air Travel is Back!

By Land, By Sea, By Air: Travel is Back!

As 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.

1“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 • 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.

The ability to cancel a trip and get a refund is by far the most frequently cited benefit of travel insurance, with 69% of travelers saying this is most important to them when considering travel insurance for an upcoming trip. AAA advises these travelers to look into travel insurance policies that include a “cancel at any time” component, which could offer more flexibility and protection in the event a traveler needs to cancel their trip. Although travel insurance policies have historically not covered epidemics or pandemics, some providers have started to introduce plans that cover some losses due to COVID-19 or other epidemic diseases.

By Land, By Sea, By Air: Get There!

The February 2022 AAA survey found 42% of Americans will still travel by car despite rising gas prices: • Make sure your car maintenance is up-to-date (oil changes, tire pressures and conditions, AC, etc.). • Plan your route in advance to avoid detours and to plan stops along the way (Fiberglass Punxsutawney Phil, anyone?). • Drive mindfully for peak fuel economy. If the sea beckons, know that the cruise industry has faced the most challenges during and post-pandemic: • AAA strongly recommends working with a travel agent to understand what to expect while onboard; limitations on ports, excursions and onboard activities; and changes to safety protocols, including testing or daily self-health assessments for travelers who still wish to cruise.

• Follow the CDC guidance, which includes being fully vaccinated and/or getting a COVID-19 vaccine booster if eligible before cruising. • Use the CDC Cruise Ship Status Dashboard at cdc.gov/ quarantine/cruise/cruise-ship-color-status.html and verify vaccination status classification before traveling. Be aware that the ship’s status could change over time and may be different by the time of your cruise. If you want to join the jet set, be sure to reduce your chance of being grounded: • Book the first flight in the morning. Early morning flights are less susceptible to encountering problems from cancelations or delays. • Check-in online 24-hours in advance and enable airline notifications on your mobile device in case an issue arises that requires a change in plans. • If a flight is canceled, the airline must try and accommodate by booking passengers on an alternative flight. Under federal law, you are entitled to a full refund if you request it although it could take time to recover this money since more cancellations mean more people asking for refunds. A change of scenery, whether near or far, whether for a few hours or a few weeks, can be the tonic one needs to revive the soul. Don’t let the “do’s” and “don’t’s” intimidate you into a “won’t.” Adventure awaits, GO! 2 By Brenda Huey, CTA Vice President, Travel, & Cheryl Gouker, Manager Marketing & Public Affairs, AAA Reading-Berks

Imagine yourself HERE.

The Chamber Trip is back and better than ever!

Join us in Tuscany November 1-9 for an immersive cultural experience. Learn more and sign up for the trip by contacting Rachael Romig at rromig@greaterreading.org