Summer is finally here, beckoning us to embark on exciting adventures! As you gear up for your travels, it’s essential to stay prepared and informed. No matter where you’re headed or what you have planned, you want to be prepared! Here are a few of our summer travel tips to help ensure you have a fantastic trip:
Be prepared: Airlines and trains don’t always hand out things like blankets, so be prepared to bring everything that you might need to make yourself comfortable while traveling.
Flexibility is crucial, especially in the current travel landscape, so explore various accommodation options beyond traditional hotels, such as Airbnb or VRBO.
When renting a car, securing your reservation early is key due to high demand and limited inventory. Additionally, consider alternative options like Turo for car rentals or bringing your vehicle along on the autotrain.
Check for reservation requirements. Make sure to check out the website of each individual location you plan to visit to see if any restrictions are in place, and check if you need a visa or other travel document, and book your tickets as far in advance as possible.
Pack light: Summer travel often involves warm weather destinations, so it’s essential to pack light and smart. Opt for breathable fabrics, versatile clothing pieces, and compact essentials to maximize suitcase space and minimize hassle.
Stay hydrated: Hydration is key, especially when exploring under the summer sun. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently to stay hydrated throughout your adventures. Additionally, pack hydrating snacks like fruits and vegetables to keep energy levels up while on the go.
Keep snacks handy! You never know what situation you’ll get into that will cause you delays, and we all know hangry adults and children on vacation are not a good combo! It’s always good to bring your own bottle of water as well – just be sure to purchase it after you head through security if you are in an airport.
Prepare for potential delays: Have a few things handy, like back-up chargers, books, a deck of cards, or any other items to help pass the time.
It used to be that you could pick your vacation spot, reserve your accommodations, and then later work on the airfare and car rental. Now, we recommend checking all details and prices before you make a financial commitment that you may not be able to get out of. It might be that you pay for your hotel and then find out the airfare is exorbitant or that there are no rental cars available.
If there was ever a good time to take advantage of travel insurance, this is it! This is a way to have peace of mind in case someone in your party becomes ill, or travel restrictions change.
For personalized assistance and insider tips, consider enlisting the help of a travel agent who can navigate the evolving travel landscape and offer valuable insights. Plus, if you have a last-minute change of plans before or during your trip it helps to have someone on speed dial that can help.
Think outside of the box. Can’t find a rental car? There is a service called Turo (like the Airbnb of cars) where you can rent cars from car hosts or consider taking your car with you on the autotrain. Hotel booked? Consider Airbnb or VRBO. In addition, look beyond the popular spots for places that you may not have considered.
Plan outdoor activities: Take advantage of the longer daylight hours and pleasant weather by planning outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, or picnicking in a scenic park, embrace the great outdoors and soak up the summer sunshine.
Beat the crowds: Summer is a popular time for travel, which means crowded attractions and busy tourist spots. Beat the crowds by planning your visits during off-peak hours, exploring lesser-known destinations, or opting for unique experiences off the beaten path.
While Covid-related restrictions have eased up, it’s still wise to be mindful of any specific requirements at your destination. Ensure you have any necessary documentation, such as a vaccination passport or negative Covid test results, depending on your vaccination status and local regulations. Airlines may have their own restrictions, so double-check their policies and plan accordingly for any potential delays. Remember to pack essentials like masks, wipes, and hand sanitizer if you are concerned. Check with your airline to make sure you are aware of their restrictions as well. If you are traveling by plane, allow extra time as there could be staffing issue at your airport.
Travelers may want to practice responsible tourism by respecting local communities, minimizing their environmental impact, and supporting local businesses and initiatives.
By being well-prepared and adaptable, you’ll set yourself up for a memorable and stress-free summer getaway.
Wherever your travels take you, we hope you have a safe, memorable, and successful trip!
