Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. Those who have made their decision and are ready to embark on a new adventure, we have some advice for you… Here are four mistakes to avoid while traveling during COVID: 1. Adding Numerous Countries to Your Itinerary When you start planning your adventure abroad amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it's best to stick to one or two countries until the virus is well under control. You'll be able to relax on your adventure without worrying about additional transits, quarantines, testing requirements, and ever-changing guidelines. Here's your chance to take the time to really get to know a place and embrace the art of slow travel. 2. Not Checking Cancellation or Change Policies Before Booking Flights Most of us have heard the stories of travelers who lost thousands of dollars on a canceled vacation in 2020 that wasn't covered by travel insurance. Beware when purchasing insurance policies during the pandemic, as many programs do not cover claims arising from COVID-19. Look for information directly on the company's website. Many carriers are offering exceptional change and cancellation policies during the pandemic. Policies do vary by airline and business, If using a travel agent for your bookings and for some multi day tours, make sure you are aware of their policies as well. 3. Forgetting to Get a COVID-19 Test Before Flying, and for Departure This might be the most important item to check off your list. You will not want to forget to schedule your test before a trip abroad no matter where you're traveling, since entry requirements can change in an instant and often do. Most countries that mandate a test require a negative certificate that has been issued within 72 hours of boarding. Schedule a test two mornings before your departure, so that you receive your certificate the same evening and can print it out in preparation for your flight. And as for your return to the U.S., it is now mandatory by CDC regulations that ALL public entering present a negative COVID test. 4. Waiting to Fill Out Your Paperwork in Person No one likes filling out paperwork, and you'll see a lot of it while flying during COVID — sometimes multiple forms for entry into one country. A smart way to handle this is to print and fill them out in advance. Protocols for airports and countries vary, so be prepared for anything and everything, including potential visits to the immigration office for more questioning (and possibly missing your connecting flight). Even if you've filled out the paperwork in advance, keep a pen handy. Some entry restrictions are changing so fast that a country can make a switch in their forms on a moment's notice. This new traveling environment is new for all of us, it’s something none of us have experienced before. But as experts on the past “normal” of traveling, we can assure you we’ll be able to differentiate and guide you in the right direction and know what exactly you can be doing to avoid having a hard time planning your getaway as COVID regulations are still taking place. Give us a call or email us today to receive more of our help, and Let’s Get Busy Livin’! Safe Travels, Dan.
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AuthorDan Laiosa, Archives
August 2021
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