Do you feel like travelling again? A lot of us are. Even as we’re seeing a COVID surge right now, people are itching to travel. In fact, a reinvigorated travel interest is being blamed on pandemic fatigue, which is understandable. It’s the term used for those who are tired from the emotional stress caused by COVID news and regulations.
Which means we all have it.
Which is why we’re seeing a growing travel interest as people are experiencing cabin fever and they’re eager to explore the world around them once more.
In early November, Travel Daily News conducted a survey and found a 45% increase in travel interest in most Americans. Although travel numbers are still way down from last year, the interest in travelling is apparent: Even though the itch is there, people still aren’t sure if they should do it.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL IS A POPULAR THOUGHT, BUT IS IT FOR EVERYONE?
Of the 553 people surveyed, 45% said that they’d consider travelling during the holidays. Travelling only for Thanksgiving got the lowest score with 12.3%, and travelling for Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa received 16.46%; 17% wanted to travel during both holiday periods.
If nothing else, it shows that people really want to see other people during the holiday season, even if it means risking being exposed at airports, hotels, and family gatherings.
On the flip side, 54% of respondents said they would not consider travelling during the holidays. They’re not ready to risk anything and are okay with spending the holidays at home or with local loved ones.
So if you’re experiencing some pandemic fatigue and you don’t want to stay home, consider these options to fulfill your travel goals.
Airplanes are not the only option
There are still people traveling by air, although not so many. There are contactless check-in solutions, and planes, as well as gate areas, are being deep cleaned regularly. Some airlines are even keeping middle seats empty to help with social distancing. So if you want to travel via airplane, that’s an option. Otherwise, many people are driving
However, if that’s not enough to put your mind at ease, renting a car or even taking your own car are also viable options. It may take longer to travel, but you can be assured that you’re in a clean, safe vehicle. Plus, there may not be as much traffic on the road since fewer people are travelling this year.
Hotels are also practicing deep cleaning and sterilization, as well as social distancing requirements of staff and guests. So you could spend a night on the road, as well as at your destination, knowing the hotels are doing what they can to protect everyone.
Consider safety and the rules
We know feeling stuck at home can be a mental and emotional strain, especially if you’re used to travelling. But because so many states are locking down for a second time and possibly banning incoming travel, be sure you’re even able to travel during the holiday.
Is your home state or your destination locked down? Do you have to quarantine if you come in from another state? What are the mask requirements if you go out into public?
Also, if you decide to fly, check out the TSA and airlines’ rules and regulations. Are you able to comply with those? You may have strong feelings about the requirements, but you’re still expected to follow the rules and regulations set forth by those groups. So double-check that they have procedures you’re willing to follow.
Before you travel to your final destination, make sure you know what to expect when you arrive. Your host, lodging provider, or destination city may have certain rules and regulations that are different from your hometown. You’ll want to be properly packed and prepared as holiday gatherings will be very different this year.
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Photo credit:Free-Photos (Pixabay, Creative Commons 0)
