3 Obstacles to Holiday Travel and How to Protect Against Them

Like many, you’re probably starting to work out your 2022 holiday travel plans. If that’s the case, then you’re also likely discovering some of the obstacles impeding 2022 travel. This article explores three big ones along with valid workarounds.

Obstacle No. 1 – COVID-19

Believe it or not, COVID-19 is still a thing. Sure, we have effective vaccines, but, that doesn’t mean the virus is extinct. How can you reduce your chances of contracting the virus while traveling?

As of the date of this article, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is still recommending travelers wear masks when traveling on public transportation. This includes buses, airplanes, ferries, etc. Also, they recommend wearing masks when in transportation hubs like train depots and airports. Click here for information on the proper wearing of masks.

According to the same article from the CDC, additional ways to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 during travel include: traveling during off-peak times and opening windows (if it’s an option) while traveling on public transportation.

Also, the COVID-19 vaccine has proven effective in protecting against the virus and preventing serious illness. In light of this information, it may be wise to attain vaccinated status if traveling. However, it’s understood that the decision to vaccinate, or not vaccinate, is a deeply personal decision that dives beyond the scope of this article.

Obstacle No. 2 – The High Cost of Air Travel

According to nerdwallet.com, flight costs are the highest ever with average costs increasing 38% between May 2021 and May 2022. So, how can you overcome this obstacle?

You can’t change the cost of air travel, but you can save money on flights by booking early. According to an Investopedia blog, flights are the cheapest if purchased between four months and three weeks before the departure date. That means now’s the time to start looking for holiday-flight deals if interested in maximizing savings.

Obstacle No. 3 – The Unforeseen

Many things can happen that are outside your control. Your destination could suddenly become an active combat zone. A volcano could wipe out the resort you’ve booked. A tsunami could ravage your vacation getaway. The list goes on and on…

It’s tricky to overcome this obstacle to holiday travel because you have no control over them. So, how can you protect against these things? The short answer is, you can’t. However, you can protect the financial commitment you’ve allocated to holiday travel through the purchase of travel insurance. As a matter of fact, travel insurance can help protect your financial commitment tied to all three obstacles presented in this article.

How Can Travel Insurance Help?

 “Travel insurance provides an effective hedge against the financial risk associated with traveling,” says Dan Drennen, Director of Sales and Marketing at Travel Insurance Center^®. “The trick is getting adequate coverage based on your needs and budget.” Drennen adds, “Solutions exist for almost any travel situation. There are even Coronavirus-friendly plans and Cancel For Any Reason policies.”

Coronavirus-Friendly Plans

Dan recommends that all travelers consider purchasing Coronavirus-friendly travel insurance. This type of protection can provide a way to hedge against financial risks related to travel in a post-pandemic world. Coverage may include costs connected with travel delays, emergency medical and evacuation, trip cancelation and interruption, and the like. Despite these uncertain times, you can schedule trips with confidence because of the financial protection available through these plans.

Cancel For Any Reason Policies

An important point to consider, according to Drennen, is the option to purchase a Cancel For Any Reason insurance policy. This is one of the most effective options for protecting your travel investment during these uncertain times.

Three Points Concerning Cancel For Any Reason Eligibility

1. The policy must be purchased within 21 days of your very first trip payment or deposit. If you go beyond that timeframe, then Cancel For Any Reason insurance policies are not an option. 
2. You must insure the full, pre-paid, non-refundable cost of the trip. 
3. If you do cancel for any reason not covered under the standard trip cancellation provisions of the policy, you must do so 48 hours or more before departure. Therefore, time is of the essence in procuring this type of coverage.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to purchasing travel insurance, there are so many options. Which option is the best for you? How much money should you spend on premiums? To get answers to these, and other pressing questions, Dan Drennen recommends working with knowledgeable travel insurance agents. “A good agent works with your best interest in mind,” Drennen states. “They do research on your behalf to find a plan that offers the most suitable protection for your budget.”

If you’re considering travel insurance, give the Travel Insurance Experts at Travel Insurance Center^® a shot. They specialize in finding the best travel insurance options for your specific needs and budget. Give them a call at 1.866.979.6753. They’d be happy to help you with all your travel insurance needs.

Travel Insurance Center is operated by Senior Market Sales LLC a licensed insurance marketing organization. Insurance services provided by Senior Market Sales LLC. This is a solicitation.