A new year is almost here and domestic and international bookings are on the rise, especially for the second half of 2022.

Hospitality vendors are welcoming guests with promises of increased cleanliness and contactless transactions. However, much remains uncertain about upcoming getaways.

Yes, COVID-19 is still impacting travel while labor and supply shortages are affecting restaurants, airlines, hotels, and rental car agencies.

Should you head to Europe? Hop a plane to Alaska? Go on a cruise to the Mexican Riviera? Visit Machu Pichu? Hit the beaches in Hawaii? Ski the slopes in Utah?

Is it safe to board an airplane or is it better to go by car and stay stateside?

You might be wondering what’s the best way to plan a trip now? Well, here are some tips to help make it easier.

Be Flexible

Be flexible and make your reservations earlier. Airlines and other travel vendors have consolidated services, so have a backup plan in case your schedule needs to change. Also, some hotels have reduced amenities, such as daily housekeeping and in-house restaurant hours. Verify your destination’s status before leaving home.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Consider a trip focused on the outdoors. Popular destinations include beach and ski resorts, plus trips to national and state parks. Our prediction is national park visits will continue to stay strong for several years to come.

Didigtial Planning Tools

Explore digital travel planning tools, which can offer more choices, including pet-friendly hotels, all-inclusive resorts, vacation rental homes, and enhanced options for those working remotely. And you might also want to consider purchasing a travel assistance program for longer getaways.

Extra Trip Protection

For a reasonable fee, Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) provides some extra protection and security on every trip taken away from home during a full year, whether domestic or abroad. EA+ is part of a global network that offers customized medical, travel, and security services across six continents to ensure its members get the proper medical care they need and are returned home safely.

Be Safe, Have Fun

Regardless of where you plan to visit this coming year be safe and follow all guidelines for yourself and your family.

We all need to take a break every now and then so go, enjoy and explore the surroundings be it a sandy beach, a mountainous region, go snow skiing, or partake in a bevy of water sports!

Source: Worldwide Rescue & Security, Inc.