As travel resumes, it’s time to start planning those much-needed getaways we all know and love. Whether it’s a Cancun vacation or a Jamaica getaway, arranging a vacation is more complicated than ever. And so the key to a stress-free trip is all about relying on our resources and using a knowledgeable travel advisor. From planning with peace of mind to knowing the guidelines and restrictions at each destination open to American visitors, here are our top tips on taking a vacation this year—straight from our experts.
Choose a destination already open to Americans
If you’re not exactly the gambling type, selecting a vacation spot that’s currently open to American travelers will save any stress of wondering if the chosen destination will actually open in time. But there are so many great places already open to ease any worries. From several Caribbean and Mexican favorites to dream destinations like the Maldives islands in the Indian Ocean, there’s plenty to pick from to satisfy families, couples, and even groups.
Know when your travel credit expires
Whether it’s from a cruise line, an airline, or anywhere else, travelers with future travel credit from a cancelled trip should know the expiration date. Some travel credits were initially good for use within one year (from booking or departure date). However, a variety of companies have extended their waivers. This means a specific credit may expire fairly soon—or it may be good through 2022. To verify your expiry date, contact the transportation company or ask your GOGO-backed travel advisor to help.
Stay updated on guidelines and restrictions
In the rapidly changing landscape, knowing the current guidelines and restrictions is essential. To best provide you with the knowledge you need, our parent company Flight Centre Travel group has gathered important resources to help you plan the perfect trip. From airport regulations to resort and hotel health enhancements, you’ll find a wealth of information in one place. Also visit the COVID-19 Travel Map, which is searchable by destination to discover up-to-date travel restrictions, such as border closures, social distancing rules, status of transportation services. In addition, you can also get daily updates on worldwide airline policies, immigration and border regulations, and international travel alerts.
Think about using travel insurance
We always recommend the purchase of travel insurance, regardless of the circumstance or destination. Travelers never know what situations might arise, so it’s a good idea to be protected just in case. Trip delays, interruptions, or even cancellations can cause unexpected headaches and expenses. But travel insurance can help make sure vacationers are protected for adjustments needed to overcome these situations. Some plans contain cancellation benefits which can include reimbursement for pre-paid non-refundable expenses in case of a medical or other emergency before the trip even begins. This can especially be important when traveling in 2022.
Ensure your documents are still valid
The key to a stress-free 2022 trip is all about preparation. From making sure passports valid and confirming the itinerary to bringing necessities like a phone charger and umbrella (just in case), we’ve created these travel checklists for planning and packing. It’s also critical to remember that some destinations require COVID-19 testing, health screenings, and/or temperature checks prior to the departure flight, upon arrival, and/or throughout the stay. Read our ultimate travel checklists to get prepared on what to bring and what needs to be done before the trip.
Rely on an Expert
Travel consultants are trip guides, connecting travelers to the world through recommendations. From destinations and all-in-one resorts, to the more specific restaurants, sightseeing options, complete vacation packages, and even trendy hotspots, a travel advisor does it all. As the world reopens for travel, it can be difficult to keep up with which areas and countries are accepting visitors, let alone the complications regarding local restrictions, travel regulations, and finding places to stay with increased safety standards. An advisor can help travelers navigate all of the rules and solve any problems that occur either before or during the trip.
To book a vacation with complete confidence, start by contacting a GOGO-back travel advisor.
