We asked travel agent Carla Thorson about what to expect before you hit the road
As vaccination rates continue to increase, more and more people are hitting the road and booking vacations. A recent survey by the Travel Leaders Network found that those who are vaccinated are 20 percent more likely than their unvaccinated counterparts to book a vacation. What’s the CDC saying? It’s urging lots of precautions even for those who’ve gotten both shots — and for unvaccinated people not to travel at all.
With spring break and summer vacation right around the corner, we asked travel agent Carla Thorson about how the travel industry has changed since the start of the pandemic and what to expect over the next few months.
Katie Couric Media: It’s been more than a year since the pandemic hit. How does the travel and the hospitality industry look different today?
Carla Thorson: The travel industry was decimated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The number of scheduled flights decreased roughly by 50%, and 8 out of 10 hotel rooms sat empty. But even though the industry has a long way to go, there’s light at the end of the runway! Especially considering that the number of travelers increased dramatically this past summer. I’m confident that in the future, we’ll travel the way we live our lives now: with social distancing, a mask, and hand sanitizer in tow.
How have airlines changed since Covid-19 hit?
On a positive note, many large airlines are no longer charging change fees (as of right now). Before Covid-19, change fees ranged from $75.00 to $250.00 per ticket for domestic travel. So this adjustment eliminates the stress of the “What ifs?” when booking travel. However, international flights are continuing to charge fees.
The industry has embraced the fact that “touchless travel” is crucial and has implemented new technology to accommodate this demand. Some examples include: Pre-check-in for all flights with a boarding pass, checking baggage from home with receipt and baggage tags, controlling in-flight entertainment from the passenger’s cell phone.
Looking ahead, new technology is being researched and developed for use soon. The developments include rapid COVID testing at airports, and a travel pass app for tracking vaccines and health.
How have hotels changed since Covid hit?
Hotels are offering guests high-tech, no-touch options for check-in with digital room keys, and booking room service and housekeeping. Rooms are intensely cleaned before the guest’s arrival and housekeeping is paused until the guest requests service or additional amenities. The strict protocols to ensure the health of hotel guests has warranted the new staff position of “Hygiene Manager,” which are found in many 4-and 5-star properties.
What are five tips you have for helping people stay safe while traveling by planes, trains, or automobiles?
1. Double-mask at all times: In addition, make sure to change your mask every couple of hours if you’re at the airport, on a flight, or out in public for a long period of time.
2. Social distance more than the suggested six feet: And don’t be afraid to ask someone for distance (politely) if you’re feeling uncomfortable.
3. Start with a short trip: If you haven’t traveled since the pandemic began, start small and see how you manage the experience, logistically and emotionally. Many of us barely left our homes for a year, so don’t get overwhelmed by the new procedures you might encounter.
4. If flying or driving, plan as few stops as possible.
5. Avoid contact areas that are frequently touched: Think railings and elevator buttons.
What are some ways people can get creative this year with family trips and still feel safe?
If a family isn’t ready to fly, road trips are the way to go and can be done on any budget. Decide on a destination within a six-hour drive. House and condo rentals offered by Airbnb and similar companies have implemented special cleaning routines and procedures to limit contact.
What are your favorite products for traveling right now?
I love Dolan, which makes “smart basics” that work for people in the healthcare field and anyone who needs high-performance clothing. They have a great line of masks and bandanas, and some super-comfortable travel joggers.
1. Nylon or Cotton Washable Carry-On: Try the Everywhere Bag by Away. It comes in eight different colors/materials, all of which go with plenty of different outfits.
2. Clorox Wipes: I take the big size, but here’s a smaller to-go pack on Amazon.
3. Hands-Free Door Opener Tool: Such a smart invention! This pack on Amazon is $7.99 and comes with three key chains to prevent you from touching doors, pin pads, kiosks, and more.
4. Lightweight Travel Blanket: Order a blanket you can toss after your flight, like these ones on Amazon, which are super-inexpensive.
5. KN95 Disposable Masks: Order this 50-pack on Amazon, which features 5-layer masks with a comfortable elastic ear loop. (Plus, the black option is a little more stylish than white.) I also like to wear a gaiter on top of my mask for extra protection.
What are some of your current clients’ top destinations?
Their top destinations include Hawaii, National Parks, the Caribbean, and Tulum, Mexico. But it’s important to check out the restrictions and requirements for each place you want to visit, since they change constantly. Some countries are requiring negative covid tests within three days of travel, or a vaccine confirmation. Some are requiring antigen tests when you leave. Be sure to always check with the airline, destination, and the CDC regarding travel restrictions and procedures before you leave, or contact your travel advisor for the full rundown.
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