On The Road Again!
Anticipation is building in regard to getting back to travel. With restrictions lifting every day, it’s more and more likely that we’ll all be back on the road soon, if you’re not already traveling now. To help our travelers feel prepared and to offer an increased sense of safety and security, we’re doing our best to keep you informed of the ever-changing nature of travel today. In case you missed our last post on updates to popular travel apps, you can find that here. Below is what to expect if you haven’t booked travel or been on the road in a while.
TECH BUT DON’T TOUCH.
While many companies were already starting to implement more tech solutions, 2020 really expedited these efforts. From touchless check-ins to self-service bag drops, our travel partners and even TSA are limiting unnecessary interactions to make you feel safe.
Our takeaway: Be sure to pack both patience and kindness in your carry on. As fellow travelers are adjusting to the new processes, sometimes a little extra time is needed.
CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF.
If you haven’t been to an airport in a while, you may find some things look like a little different while others might be more familiar than you expected. The airport and airplanes are becoming full again but airport and flight concessions and services are still limited.
Our takeaway: Be prepared! Check the airport website for details, arrive early and don’t forget to bring snacks!
TAKE THE WHEEL.
Across the board, inventory at your favorite rental agency is low. At the start of the pandemic, car companies sold off much of their inventory. While they rush to increase their fleet, a microchip shortage is slowing the process. That, paired with higher demand for car rentals, means an increase in daily rates and minimum length requirements.
Our takeaway: Book your car early and utilize your agency, corporate program and membership to receive preferential treatment when applicable.
HAVE A NICE STAY.
By and large, hotels have made great strides in adopting and implementing serious upgrades to their health and safety protocols but you may find it’s not consistent across all brands. Additionally, like with airports, there are still some modified and limited services on property.
Our takeaway: Check the hotel website to get the scoop on the protocols and availability of services where you are staying. And, as a consistent theme, be patient as things ramp back up.