Whether you’ve been itching to take a trip or have already hit the road you might be wondering what are the top ways to travel after a pandemic. While there is no right or wrong answer because what feels comfortable to every person will be different, there are some general guidelines you can follow to help plan and have good travel experiences.
It might seem like there will be a lot of discounts and incentives to travel however, as more and more options become available it’s the opposite that is happening. You may be able to find deals if you are open to adjusting your dates and options but go into your travel planning with the knowledge that prices may not be as competitive as you expect.
Be Aware of Any Rules and Regulations
Even though it might be easier to travel, it won’t mean that all rules and regulations are gone. In fact there most likely will be changing requirements for quite some time. Keeping up to date with travel regulations when it comes to things like testing requirements and documentation needed is vitally important. Even though things may be “normal” where you live, it may not be the same for the destination you’re looking to go to. Don’t be that tourist that shows up and doesn’t follow the local laws!
Consider Outdoor Options First
Along with frequently changing regulations there most likely will be limits on indoor activities for a period of time. It makes sense to first think about outdoor options for your travel experiences. Whether that’s camping, hiking, outdoor concerts, outdoor activity areas or something different these types of travel activities are your best bet to be open and operating.
Expect Crowds in Popular Places
Because people haven’t traveled in such a long time, when things do open back up you can expect that popular places will become popular again. Depending on how comfortable you feel with crowds and busy locations may affect what and where you decide to go. Even in busy places, you can find pockets of calm and fewer crowds, you’ll just need to do a little more work to find those opportunities.
Be Flexible
Of all the advice to heed in traveling after a pandemic, the one bit of advice that will be most important is the ability to be flexible. There’s a good chance that no matter what happens or where you go, there will be last-minute changes that are made. You will need to pivot, adjust and adapt your plans depending on these changes. The ability to be flexible is going to make a huge difference in your enjoyment and holiday experience.
Consider Your Timing
It may be very tempting to head out and travel as soon as you’re able, however, for long or big international trips you may want to do one of two things. Either be in the first wave of travelers and expect that things may not be “back to normal,” or wait until after the first rush of travelers passes and then begin your travels. You can always do closer trips to cure the travel itch at first. By timing your travels you’ll likely be able to find the best deals as well as travel in times that may not have the crowds that are expected.
Conclusion
No matter when or where you make your first trips after the pandemic there will be bumps and challenges along the way. Going in with a positive attitude and knowing things most likely won’t be how they were before and could be a little harder will help you manage your expectations while still having a good time.
Always be mindful while planning your trip and once you’re actually traveling. Don’t hesitate to create a backup plan in the event you begin to feel uncomfortable or need to make a swift change of plans. Traveling after the pandemic doesn’t have to be feared, especially if you plan your trip carefully and wisely.
