It is hard to believe that we haven’t been able to plan a summer vacation without worrying about staff shortages, canceled flights, mask rules, vaccinations, and restrictions regarding destinations, since the summer of 2019. Although some of that is still a concern, travel professionals say that this summer should finally be getting better for those who love to travel.
Expedia, in a poll of 12,000 people worldwide, found some interesting differences in summer travel plans for 2022 compared to past years. Although most Americans are sticking to domestic travel for now, with 37% planning international trips, there will be plenty of moving around going on. Two-thirds of Americans are planning “significant” trips in the next year. Apparently, people have realized how much they previously took the ability to travel freely for granted.
People take vacations for many reasons. But, for the first time, more travelers seek “richness and joy” from their travels. They want trips to feel special so they are seeking out adventures that are off the beaten path, with new cuisine and cultural experiences. They want to disconnect from devices – perhaps due to “Zoom fatigue” from two years of online meetings – and be more in the moment. Two years of mostly staying home, avoiding crowds, and home-schooling have made us all realize how much we’ve missed. We have a newfound appreciation for freedom and travel and realize that experiences are what matter the most.
START YOUR PLANNING
What are some things to think about for your summer travel? First, decide if you want to fly, drive, or use some other form of travel such as a train or ship.
There are definite advantages and disadvantages to every type of vacation.
THE FRIENDLY SKIES
As always, flying allows you more time to enjoy your destination. At this time, flights are still relatively inexpensive. And, of course, your destination options are unlimited when you fly. However, if you are trying to avoid exposure to large groups of people or don’t want to wear a mask for your entire trip, flying may not be the best choice. Staff shortages have created an issue with frequently canceled flights, fewer nonstop options, and more layovers. If you do choose to fly, travel insurance is smart. This allows for flexibility should your flight get changed or canceled altogether. Given the rapidly-changing Covid-19 regulations in many destinations and the increase and decrease in active cases in any given location, travel restrictions are always a possibility. It’s also smart to book rental cars with a “book now, pay later” option.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
If you plan to make an international trip, be sure to research your destination’s vaccine and testing regulations and schedule any necessary testing appointments. Check quarantine rules at your destination, and build that time into your trip. No one wants to spend six days of an eight-day vacation in quarantine. Also, keep in mind that passport renewals are taking longer.
CRUISING
Cruising will always be popular, and it’s no longer just for older adults. Young families and singles are discovering the joys of cruising: outstanding service, comfortable rooms, fantastic food, world-class entertainment, and access to some of the most beautiful places in the world. However, cruise ships have had a rough run for two years. Quarantines lasting longer than the original cruise and lockdowns requiring passengers to remain in their cabins have made traditional cruises less popular. Travelers motivated by the desire for adventure with less risk of illness are now turning to smaller boats, river cruises, or expedition-style cruises such as Viking or Silversea, which generally accommodate a few hundred guests rather than thousands. These cruises offer smaller crowds and more immersive experiences.
CAMPING AND RV’S
If you want to stay closer to home, maintain some social distance, and don’t require room service or luxury accommodations, camping is always a great choice. If you have a larger family and pets, RVing is the best way to travel. If you don’t have access to an RV, tent camping is an adventure in itself. Trust me when I say there is no better way to connect with your family than out in nature. Most remote campgrounds have poor cell service, which will force your kids (and your significant other) to be a bit more present. There is something about sleeping among giant redwoods or waking up to the sound of the surf that soothes the soul.
THE ALL AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
Finally, there is the road trip–one of my personal favorites. There is nothing quite like hitting a two-lane highway, exploring those “fly over” states, making the journey the vacation rather than choosing a destination. You are limited to as far as you can travel in the amount of time you have available. But some of the most incredible things to be seen are off far away from the freeway. My family rides Harleys, and we have traveled all over the U.S. and Canada on our bikes. I have photo books full of priceless memories made with my parents and my kids, exploring small towns and back roads, eating in local diners, and dancing to the local bands playing at street fairs. I still remember road trips in my dad’s Bronco, stopping to watch a field full of elk graze or wild horses drink from a stream. Those times together in a car, playing road games, laughing, and talking are something I will never forget.
Whatever you choose to do this summer, whether a weekend camping trip or a five-star cruise, make it all about the experience and adventure. Because the best memories have nothing to do with how much money you spend!
TRICIA VLASAK is a mother, grandparent, and wife. She works in law enforcement when she isn’t writing about parenting, hiking with her dogs, or going on adventures. Tricia received a Silver Award for feature writing from Parenting Media Association in 2021.
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