Important Things to Keep In Mind if Planning a Summer Vacation

2021, in many ways, was an extension of the uncertain times seen in 2020. From a travel perspective, there were some setbacks such as concerns related to COVID-19 variants Delta and Omicron which taxed the healthcare system in various areas of the world. Also, 2021 saw the military buildup of Russian forces along its border with the sovereign nation of Ukraine which added to travel hesitancy as well as increased travel costs due to oil price surges. 

Despite these challenges, however, the year brought some bright spots for those wishing to vacation in 2022. The widespread availability of COVID-19 vaccines made a positive impact on people’s ability to travel. Although not yet at pre-pandemic levels, both the airline and hotel industries have seen some level of recovery because of this.

Also, we see that people are ready to start traveling once more and the industry is ready to accommodate them. Peter Kern, Chief Executive Officer of Expedia Group has been so bold as to predict that the summer of 2022 will be the busiest travel season ever. With Omicron fears fading, nearly 82% of people are ready to travel according to a CNBC article. The article goes on to say that 92% of those surveyed are planning to take a trip in the next 12 months.

If you’re among those planning to travel, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, no matter how much we want the pandemic to be behind us, the reality is, it will take some time. For example, the TSA mandate requiring airline passengers to wear masks is still in effect. So, if you’re planning to fly, bring your mask and wear it correctly.

Also, do not travel if you are sick with COVID-19 or have tested positive for the Coronavirus. Further recommendations and restrictions are laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in this article. Additionally, adhere to any testing requirements that must be met prior to entering a new country.  

Traveling in 2022 does entail taking some risks. New variants could arise that necessitate plan changes or even trip cancelations. What if you test positive for COVID-19 one day before you’re scheduled to travel? What if political or military upheaval makes travel risky? It’s important to mitigate your risk as much as possible. Dan Drennen, Director of Sales and Marketing at Travel Insurance Center^® has some suggestions when it comes to reducing the risk associated with traveling during the 2022 season.

Consider 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 during the pandemic. 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.

Consider a Cancel For Any Reason Policy

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 time frame, 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.

The Travel Insurance Experts at Travel Insurance Center^® specialize in finding the best travel insurance options for your specific needs and budget. If you have questions or need travel insurance, don’t hesitate to reach out by clicking here, or by calling 1.866.979.6753.